#SAPaths: Student Affairs Career Pathways Podcasts

SAInvest logoHave you ever considered a career in Higher Education or Student Affairs? Do you have thoughts on what else might be out there than what you have experienced at your institution? The #SAPaths Podcast Series was created specifically for you!

Join NASPA for a series of targeted podcasts for graduate students, undergraduate members, and other individuals who are considering a job search. There are a number of additional opportunities for working in the field of Higher Education that are not “traditional” 4 year, residential settings.

Institution types that will be addressed during the #SAPaths Series are:

  • Community Colleges
  • Small Colleges and Universities
  • Minority Serving Instititions (MSIs)
  • Nonprofit/NGOs
  • International Work
  • Online environments

In addition to the on-demand podcasts, we want you to be able to interact with our panelists. After our podcasts, tweet your quesitons using the hashtag #SAPaths, and we'll address it during a live Question and Answer Hour. More information will be developed in the coming months, but please see the first in the series below:

Small Colleges and Universities (new)

Featuring the following panelists:

  • Andrea Conner, Dean of Students, Grinnell College
  • Devin Randolph, Assistant Vice President for Student Development and Services, Claflin College
  • Damon Sloan, Vice President for Student and Alumni Affairs, University of St. Francis
  • Sarah Westfall, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students, Kalamazoo College

Audio Pocast 

Listen to the audio

Archived Question Hour Recording: 

Listen to Archived Question Hour

Community Colleges

Featuring the following panelists [click for bios]:

  • Dr. Karl Brooks, Dean of Student Success, Joliet Junior College
  • Michael Gutierrez, Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success, Eastfield College
  • Dr. Ivan Harrell, Vice President for Student Success, Lone Star College- CyFair
  • Dr. Quincy Martin, Associate Vice Associate Vice President of Student Affairs, Triton College
  • Brian Mitra, Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Kingsborough Community College
  • Dr. Kathryn "Kate" Mueller, Dean of Student Services, Orange Coast College
  • Dr. Scott Peska, Dean for Students, Waubonsee Community College
  • Carla Stein, Dean of Student Services, Front Range Community College - Boulder County Campus

Audio Pocast 

Listen to the audio

Archived Question Hour Recording: 

Listen to Archived Question Hour

Member Spotlight

NASPA has been an integral part of my professional journey since I attended my first national conference as an undergraduate in 1987. Through leadership roles on the National Board of Directors and as Regional Director for NASPA Region I, I have gained invaluable experience and formed lifelong connections with colleagues who share my passion for student affairs. Being involved with NASPA has provided me with mentorship, inspiration, and professional development. NASPA continues to be a vital resource for my growth as a student affairs professional.

Beth Moriarty, Ed.D.

Interim Associate Dean of Campus Life
Emerson College -- Region I

On the advice of a mentor, I joined NASPA early in my career, not knowing what to expect. I quickly discovered a wealth of opportunities. Over the past 15 years, I've served on regional boards and conference committees, built meaningful relationships with colleagues nationwide, attended conferences and retreats relevant to my work, and stayed current with trends in the field. NASPA membership, and the incredible people within the organization, have been an invaluable gift throughout every stage of my career.

Sarah Kutten, Ed.D.

Assistant Vice President for Students and Belonging
University of Oregon, Portland -- Region V

I cannot imagine my career in student affairs without my involvement in NASPA! I started by engaging in the Knowledge Communities, including serving as Co-Chair for the SAPAA and WISA KCs, as National Director of KCs and as a member of the NASPA Board of Directors. I regularly attended and presented at annual conferences and participated in the Alice Manicur Symposium, the NASPA New VPSA institute, and the Equity Leadership Academy. I am the faculty director for the upcoming 2025 NASPA Alice Manicur Symposium. NASPA is my professional home and family – where I go to be informed, inspired, challenged, connected, and supported. There is a place in NASPA for everyone. I heart NASPA!

Leanna Fenneberg, Ph.D.

Senior Vice President for Student Life
Duquesne University -- Region II

I joined NASPA in 2002 when I started working in student affairs. This national association has offered many opportunities for mentorship and professional development over the years. I have taken on various volunteer roles at regional conferences, on the Region V board, and within Knowledge Communities. A notable highlight was serving as the Co-Chair of the CLDE Knowledge Community. This experience connected me with colleagues in the field and provided valuable resources during the challenging times of the pandemic and a national election.

Amy Koeckes

Senior Associate Director, Student Engagement Outreach
University of Nevada, Reno -- Region V

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