WISA Week of Giving: Why I Give and Why You Should Too

NASPA Womxn in Student Affairs (WISA) Week of Giving is more than just a fundraising event—it is an opportunity to invest in the future of leadership in higher education, and for me, it is deeply personal. As co-chair of the WISA Advancement Committee and someone who has spent years in student affairs and advancement, I have seen firsthand the power of what happens when we create intentional spaces for womxn to grow, lead, support and elevate one another. Elevating womxn in leadership in higher education has been a focus of mine for many years. 

Why I Give

I give to WISA because I believe in the strength and potential of womxn in student affairs and higher education. Empowering womxn doesn’t just change individual careers—it strengthens our entire profession. In my role at Old Dominion University (ODU), I see every day how important it is for womxn to have access to growth, mentorship, and professional development. These are the tools that help us thrive and lead with confidence. Supporting WISA is one way I can help ensure that more womxn, especially those coming up in the field and making career shifts, have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and lead.

Through WISA, I have seen womxn lift each other up, share their experiences, and push for positive change in our field. It is this collective commitment to amplifying voices and opening doors that drives me to continue giving. We all know the challenges womxn face in higher education, and WISA is committed to breaking down those barriers and building a future where womxn can lead boldly and authentically.

The Impact of Giving

As someone who has worked in both student affairs and advancement, I have seen the real impact that giving can have on individuals and institutions. When you contribute to NASPA WISA, you are investing in womxn who are working to foster inclusive environments, shape policy, create research, and redefine leadership in higher education.

This is not just about raising funds—it is about creating a ripple effect. Your support directly impacts opportunities that empower womxn in student affairs. Every contribution to WISA helps build a stronger, more equitable future for womxn in our field, and ultimately, for our students and colleagues.

At ODU, I see how essential it is for womxn in leadership roles to have access to the resources and networks that help them grow. Giving to WISA ensures these opportunities are available to womxn at all stages of their careers. It is about investing in each other and the next generation of changemakers to make sure the future of higher education is shaped by diverse, talented womxn.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate WISA’s Week of Giving, I challenge you to join me and our WISA board in supporting this important cause. Whether it is a one-time donation or an ongoing commitment, your contribution can help make a difference. Together, we are creating spaces where womxn can thrive, lead, and inspire others to do the same in Student Affairs and Higher Education.

In my role as co-chair of the WISA Advancement Committee, I have had the privilege of seeing the impact your support can have. It is not just about support opportunities—it is about building a network that helps womxn elevate together. Let’s continue to ensure womxn have every opportunity to gain valuable experience and lead in student affairs.

Now is the time to invest in mentorship, leadership, and the future of womxn in higher education. Join me in supporting WISA during this Week of Giving, and let’s continue creating opportunities that will shape the future of our Student Affairs and Higher Education.

With WISA Pride,
Dr. Krista Harrell

 

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Dr. Krista Harrell serves as Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations and the chief administrator and strategist for the Alumni Association and Office of Alumni Relations at Old Dominion University. Krista is the leader in cultivating an alumni community of more than 172,000 living alumni and returned to her alma mater for this role in December 2022 after 20 years in Student Affairs. She plays a strategic role in supporting ODU’s advancement and serves as a key member of the Vice President of University Advancement’s senior leadership team. Krista is a three-time alumna of Old Dominion University, earning her B.S. in 2001, her M.S.Ed. in 2003 and her Ph.D in 2012. She is a proud member of NASPA, ACUI, and CASE as well as the YWCA of South Hampton Roads Virginia and Zeta Tau Alpha.