Message from the Public Policy Division Chair

Greetings from the NASPA Public Policy Division (PPD).  Coming out of the pandemic there has been a lot going on in the public policy aspect of our work as Student Affairs practitioners.  Over the past several years the Public Policy Division has provided programming, written information through blog posts, and advocacy opportunities for our members.  It has been exciting being a part of the Division over the past couple of years and I’m excited for the work that needs to be done. 

The mission of the PPD is to, “provide leadership in higher education through policy development and advocacy for students on important national issues,” the importance of this statement is salient now more than ever.  Recent legislation at the state level and decision at the federal level have created real barriers to student success at our institutions nationwide.  There are a myriad of higher education policy issues that we as an organization and profession must grapple with.  It is critical that the PPD keeps NASPA members informed and encourages the use of our collective voice to help shape policy that creates an inclusive and equitable collegiate experience for all.

In the coming months it will be imperative for the Public Policy Division to create opportunities for critical conversations, advocacy, and knowledge creation in higher education public policy.  Our next program, Implications of Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard and UNC: Post-Decision Panel, will be held on July 27th from 1:00pm-2:15pm EST.  There will be a number of events this year devoted to keeping our constituents informed and engaged with US centric public policy issues.  If you have any suggestions on the future direction of the Public Policy Division please feel free to email me at [email protected]. 

I look forward to connecting with you via email or during the NASPA Annual Conference in Seattle, Washington, March 9-13, 2024! 

Scott D. Sheehan, Ed.D.

Director, Public Policy Division