The NASPA International Symposium has served as a marquee event held prior to the NASPA annual conference for the last 18 years and is designed to foster professional collaboration and exchange in the field of student affairs among international practitioners.  The Symposium is a dynamic program featuring prominent speakers, panels of distinguished professionals from around the world, and interactive roundtables. The Symposium is an excellent opportunity for university administrators from around the world to enhance their knowledge and skills and develop new global networks.  Participants are invited to consider global perspectives when discussing timely topics such as: preparing students for meaningful and productive lives; the emergence of student affairs in institutions around the globe; the integration of global themes in student affairs work; educational access and retention practices; and the development of global competencies in students.  

 

As the field of student affairs continues to develop globally, focused opportunities for an intentional, international exchange of ideas are becoming more critical. The NASPA International Symposium facilitates the advancement of a global discussion and worldwide understanding of student affairs as a field, and, in many countries, a profession. The 2013 Symposium theme, “Bold Ideas Bridging Global Boundaries” is consistent with the conference theme, and expands it by including global perspectives. A key Symposium goal is to invite and explore bold ideas and new perspectives, and to create new networks and connections in order to bridge global boundaries.

 

Every year, the Symposium organizers send out a Call for Programs to select the speakers and develop program content that is relevant to the Symposium attendees from different parts of the world. A planning committee reviews the proposals and invites the panelists and roundtable facilitators. The peer review process ensures rigor and relevance of the selected programs. As a day and a half workshop, the Symposium will feature both panel sessions and interactive roundtable discussions (attendees’ favorite). A keynote speaker will open the program. Symposium attendees will also have an opportunity to tour local colleges and universities. 

 

 

 

By participating in the International Symposium, university administrators from around the world will: