September 1, 2024
Conference Registration Open!
December 15, 2024
EXTENDED - 2026 MENASA NASPA Conference Host Bid Due
February 5, 2025
Early Registration Rates End
February 6, 2025
Regular Registration Rates Begin
19th Annual MENASA NASPA Conference
Regional Annual Conferences Health, Safety, and Well-being Student Success Career and Workforce Development Supporting the Profession Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice International Education AVP or "Number Two" Faculty Graduate Mid-Level New Professional Senior Level Undergraduate VP for Student Affairs
April 27 - April 30, 2025 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The MENASA NASPA conference provides student affairs practitioners with the knowledge and skills to effectively address and support college students.
Presented By
About the MENASA Annual Conference
Beyond Borders: Exploring Global & Local Perspectives on Student Experience in the MENASA Area
Student affairs play a vital role in shaping the students experiences in higher education institutions. The 19th MENASA conference organizing committee invites you to participate and submit a proposal to highlight the uniqueness of the MENASA by highlighting and understanding the interplay between global trends and local realities.
Conference Planning Committee
The 2025 MENASA NASPA Conference Planning Committee (CPC) is responsible for supporting the creation and execution of the conference experience by leveraging their expertise and lens. NASPA is grateful to the thoughtful and intentional volunteers listed below.
Amjad Abdo, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar
Manal Ammagui, American University of Sharjah
Omneya Badr, Trinity Washington University
Dana Downey, NYUAD
Wadad El Housseini, Qatar University
Yaser Al Qawasmi, Qatar University
Neil Hammond, NYUAD
Lamia Husseiny, American University of Beirut
Miriam Khalil, Northwestern University - Qatar
Karima Ilila, Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar
Sheroz Naimov, University of Central Asia
Janelle Rahyns, NASPA
Harshita Tripathi, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence deemed to be University
Registration
Registration as a member is based on individual membership status at the time of the conference. If your current membership will expire prior to the conference, you will have the option to renew at the time of registration to receive the member rate.
If you are not a current member and are employed by a college or university, you can join as an international affiliate member for $80.00USD. NASPA membership provides access to the individual member rate for the conference. Please visit the membership section of the NASPA website to learn more about membership types and benefits. We hope you will consider joining today!
Are you enrolled as a full-time student at a university or college? If so, you are eligible to become a NASPA member at the student rate. Please visit here to find out more information about NASPA student membership and how to receive the NASPA student rate for the conference.
REGISTRATION FEES |
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| Early Registration 09/01/2024 - 02/05/2025 |
Regular Registration 02/06/2025 to 03/19/2025 |
Late Registration 03/20/2025 to 04/28/2025 |
NASPA Member |
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| $250.00 | $325.00 | $400.00 |
Registration w/ NASPA Membership - Purchase NASPA membership ($80) and registration together for discount |
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| $330.00 | $405.00 | $485.00 |
Non Member |
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| $410.00 | $485.00 | $560.00 |
NASPA Student Member |
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| $150.00 | $150.00 | $150.00 |
MENASA Pre-conference Workshop - Sunday April 27, 2025 2:00pm - 5:00pm |
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| $50.00 | $50.00 |
$50.00 |
Pre-conference Sessions
In today's rapidly evolving global landscape, fostering cultural understanding and a sense of belonging is critical in education, especially on diverse university campuses. This session is designed for student affairs professionals committed to cultivating a culture of curiosity, openness, and inclusion among students and staff.
Utilizing the Intercultural Development Continuum (IDC) framework and immersive, experiential activities, this session offers practical strategies for integrating intercultural awareness, self-awareness, and effective communication skills into the daily practices of student affairs. Whether focusing on staff collaboration or student-facing initiatives, participants will discover methods to enrich institutional culture and create an environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel valued and are equipped with the tools they need to thrive.
Through interactive discussions, case studies, and reflective exercises, attendees will gain tangible tools and strategies to help their institutions become more inclusive and culturally responsive. They will also learn how developing self-awareness and refining communication strategies can enhance their ability to navigate cross-cultural interactions effectively. Join us for a transformative exploration of how fostering curiosity, embracing diversity, and improving communication can strengthen campus communities, preparing all members to navigate our interconnected world with empathy and confidence.
During this workshop, we will explore the key student development theories. The goal of the session is to provide you with an insight into how the theories explain the development of our students throughout their college journey, which will help you foster a stronger sense of belonging, community engagement, and academic success. We will also focus on practical applications of these theories in your daily practices and interactions and hope that you leave with actionable strategies to enhance student success, well-being, and create more supportive environments on your campuses. Finally, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with fellow Student Affairs professionals, sharing your valuable insights and experiences.
We recommend this session for new and returning professionals as an introduction to student development theories and their applications within your local context.
As a student affairs professional, choosing what to assess is a critical decision that can shape the trajectory of your department and impact student success. In this engaging workshop, mid- and senior-level administrators will explore how to set meaningful assessment goals, measure key aspects of student affairs work, and analyze data to drive informed decision-making. You'll gain insight into the risks of assessing the wrong areas and discover practical tools for accurate measurement. Through hands-on activities and case studies, we'll demystify data analysis, and learn how to contextualize your findings for greater impact. Additionally, we’ll examine common assessment pitfalls and offer strategies for fostering a data-driven culture on your campus. Whether you're advocating for resources, evaluating program effectiveness, or guiding your team towards better outcomes, this workshop will empower you to leverage data with confidence and purpose. Join us to elevate your assessment knowledge and skills to use data as a powerful ally in your student affairs practice.
Call for Programs - CLOSED
Beyond Borders: Exploring Global & Local Perspectives on Student Experience in the MENASA Region
Student affairs play a vital role in shaping the students experiences in higher education institutions. The 19th MENASA conference organizing committee invites you to participate and submit a proposal to highlight the uniqueness of the MENASA by highlighting and understanding the interplay between global trends and local realities.
As a diverse and dynamic educational landscape, practices of SA in MENASA institutions can be looked at from various perspectives and for the purpose of the 19th conference, the following tracks can be tackled. Interested attendees should submit a program form electronically. The program should be a detailed outline of their proposed session and a set of learning outcomes for attendees that connect to the conference tracks.
All presenters must register to attend the 2025 MENASA NASPA Conference in-person.
There will not be any virtual presentation opportunities
Want to Submit Your CFP in Arabic? Please utilize these resources below.
Directions on how to submit in Arabic
Arabic Call for Programs Application
Proposals will be evaluated by several program reviewers using the following five standards
Significant and creative contributions to the student affairs profession.
Engaging program format that involves the audience and stimulates discussion.
Conceptually strong foundation, well-written, with clearly stated outcomes and appropriately documented research and/or experience.
Qualified presenters with expertise in the subject matter.
Thematically relevant program content incorporating the conference focus area(s) into the program.
Conference Tracks
Changing the Future of Student Affairs
This track examines how cultural contexts influence student affairs practices and policies while exploring transformative practices and initiatives from across the region that are redefining the student experience. This track also includes looking at innovative models of service learning that empower students to become active agents of positive change in their communities. Lastly, this track delves into strategies for equipping Gen Z and Gen Alpha students with the skills, competencies, and resilience needed to thrive in a dynamic world. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Impacts of Cultural Context/Cultural Competency
- Innovative/Transformative Campus Practices
- Service Learning & Student Engagement
- Career Readiness of Gen Z & Gen Alpha for a Changing Future
Inclusion and Belonging
This track explores strategies and initiatives for nurturing a strong sense of belonging among our diverse student populations, celebrating the unique perspectives of our students, and promoting equity in access to support and success resources. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Sense of Belonging
- Diversity
- Equity
- Accessibility
Professional Development
This track explores innovative strategies, best practices, and professional development opportunities tailored to equip student affairs professionals with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability needed to thrive in a dynamic educational landscape. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Student Affairs Professionals Adapting to Change/Responsive Policies
- Future-proofing Student Affairs Professionals
- Evaluation and Assessment Methods
- Cultural Competencies in Student Affairs Practices
Sustainability and Wellness
This track explores initiatives, policies, and practices aimed at fostering environmentally conscious institutions, promoting sustainable lifestyles among students, and integrating sustainability initiatives. This track also addresses mental health and well-being among students, encompassing counseling services, peer support networks, and proactive measures for addressing mental health at our institutions. Topics include but are not limited to:
- Mental Health Support & Well-being Initiatives
- Sustainability Practices
- Peer Support Programs
- Non-traditional Support Services (ie. After-Hours/On-Call)
Program Submission Writing Tips
Program Submission Writing Tips
Engagement Opportunities
Why Host the MENASA NASPA Conference in 2026?
Knowledge Sharing Career Development Networking and Collaboration
To host the MENASA NASPA Conference is to attract a unique and incredible mix of thinkers, leaders, experts, and emerging talent with an existing predisposition to develop their skills, stimulate higher education progress and contribute to important global conversations in the area. Hosting the MENASA NASPA Conference can be an effective way to build campus brand awareness and promote your university to a wider audience. You can attract attention from education industry leaders, social media outlets, and potential students, and help raise your profile and position your campus as a thought leader in higher education. Submit your host bid by 15 December 2024.
Awards
Each year, MENASA NASPA recognizes the outstanding contributions of members who are transforming higher education through exceptional programs, innovative services, and effective administration. MENASA's Merit Awardscover five categories crucial to the success of students and the continued growth of the Student Affairs profession. Winners are recognized and honored at the 2025 MENASA NASPA Annual Conference at NYUAD in Abu Dhabi. If you become a MENASA NASPA member today, you will not only be able to attend the conference but also potentially have your institution recognized for outstanding contributions!
Excellence in Collaborative Partnerships
Excellence in Innovative Practices
Excellence in Student Success
Excellence in Research
Dedicated Professional (Commitment to the MENASA Area
Please review each award for individual criteria and requirements via the links below.
For any questions: Contact our Merit Awards team at [email protected].
We look forward to celebrating our deserving colleagues and peers in Abu Dhabi, UAE in April 2025!
Sponsorship Opportunities
Keynote Speakers
Global Health, Safety, and Responsibility