2024 NASPA Institute for New Vice Presidents for Student Affairs

The ability to meet like-minded colleagues that challenge and extend your ideas about the work of being a student affairs educator and professional is remarkable. Not only did I learn, smile, almost cry, and embrace my role as a vice president, I came away with an action plan for my team and a clearer sense of the contributions I hope to make as a VP. In objective ways, I was reminded that my skills and background make me the right person for this role, at this time. I highly recommend the experience, especially guided by such innovators (aka bad asses) in the field of student affairs.

The institute really opened up my mind to how I navigate my work and spend my time. It also helped me understand how my multiple identities show up in the work space.

The NASPA Institute for New VPSAs was such a worthwhile and valuable experience. I’ve been in my role for about 9 months prior to the institute. Learning from the faculty coupled with networking with fellow VPs at similar points in their journeys was invigorating. It’s great to have long lasting connections with professionals across the field who serve as a community of practice as we navigate this ever-changing profession.

The NASPA Institute for New VPSAs was a transformational experience. The institute and small group model allowed for sharing of perspectives, exchange of ideas, and in-depth discussions. Institute faculty offered personal experience and historical perspective that apply to my daily work. Most of all, the Institute provided a framework for prioritization of the work with guidance on how to effectively communicate and collaborate with the various constituent groups at the VP level.

I am enough. I am not alone in this role. I have a host of colleagues who understand this calling. I am the chief architect of the student experience for my campus. I am to use my power to elevate the student experience because my students are depending on it.

Not only am I new in the VPSA role, I'm also at a new type of institution for me. One of the best parts of attending the institute, then, was not only being with other new colleagues but getting insight into a new institutional style and way of working.

The NASPA Institute for New VPSAs was incredibly helpful, both with providing key information and expanding my network of peers.