Sa Voices From The Field

Season 12 of “Student Affairs Voices from the Field” concludes with a remarkable episode featuring Dr. Doris Ching, an iconic leader whose influence continues to shape the student affairs profession. Whether you’re a veteran administrator or just starting your higher education journey, this episode is an inspiring listen that traces the arc of Dr. Ching’s extraordinary career, explores the evolution of student affairs, and points to a future built on inclusion, mentorship, and student-centered vision. Dr. Ching, emeritus Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Hawaii and the first Asian American and first woman of color to be elected President of NASPA, shares how her journey began as an eighth-grade English teacher and evolved—often unexpectedly—into a series of leadership roles that allowed her to champion student success at every level. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, humility, and saying 'yes' to opportunities that may, at first, feel intimidating. One of the central the

If you’re searching for inspiration, wisdom, and a genuine look behind the scenes of student affairs, the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field is a must-listen. This unique episode features Dr. Matt Gregory (Texas Tech University) and Dr. Andy Morgan (Illinois State University)—two lifelong friends who started as undergraduate orientation leaders and now serve as senior student affairs officers at major public universities. Their candid conversation, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton, brims with hard-earned lessons and reminders about what truly matters in higher ed leadership. The Power of Professional Friendship Matt and Andy’s journey together is a testament to the sustaining impact of having trusted peers in student affairs. They first connected as student leaders at Southern Illinois University in the early 90s, and even as their careers took them to different institutions and roles, their friendship became a sounding board through every professional triumph and challenge. Their story high

In the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, host Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with Dr. Niah Grimes and Dr. Nadeeka Karunaratne, two of the three authors behind the ground-breaking new book, Thinking Like an Abolitionist to End Sexual Violence in Higher Education. This episode dives deep into not just the book, but the lived experiences, philosophies, and activism shaping how we address sexual violence on college campuses today. The conversation is rich, personal, and thought-provoking from the outset. Both Dr. Grimes and Dr. Karunaratne share their journeys into higher education and research, rooted deeply in addressing systems of violence, healing, and examining the needs of minoritized students. Their experiences as scholar-practitioners and their commitment to transformative justice is palpable throughout the discussion. At the heart of the conversation is the bold theme of “abolitionist thinking.” Rather than viewing abolition solely as dismantling harmful systems, the authors draw on

In the most recent episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, recorded at the 2024 NASPA Annual Conference in New Orleans, host Dr. Jill Creighton invites us into a vibrant tapestry of real stories from practitioners at every level of higher education. The episode centers around a powerful question: Can you share a moment or experience in student affairs that you feel embodies the spirit of this profession? The result is a chorus of voices revealing the deep, often unseen impact student affairs professionals have on their campuses and on each other. From directors and deans to graduate students just starting their journey, one theme rings clear: student affairs is about people. Stories of mentorship, community, and personal growth abound. Many professionals recounted full-circle moments—guiding undergraduates, only to see them return years later as colleagues or even scholars in the field. Listening in, you’ll hear how those simple, day-to-day interactions—a word of encouragement, honest conversation,

In the latest episode of "Student Affairs Voices from the Field," listeners are treated to an energetic collection of perspectives straight from the annual NASPA conference. This dynamic, "person on the street" episode—hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton—dives into a pressing topic: How can we better leverage technology to meet the evolving needs of students in higher education? What stands out most from these conversations is the profession’s willingness to lean into change, rather than shy away from it. From associate vice presidents to graduate students, professionals across the nation acknowledge that technology—and especially artificial intelligence (AI)—is reshaping student affairs. As Dr. Eddie Martinez puts it, “The bus has left the station … we need to play catch up.” There’s consensus: AI isn’t just a trend. It’s a powerful tool that can streamline administrative tasks, enhance communication, and free up time for the real heart of student affairs—the human connection. But it’s not all enthusiasm and optimi

Student affairs is a profession built on the foundation of supporting others—walking alongside students as they navigate challenges, pursue growth, and build their futures. But as highlighted in the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, modeling “healthy excellence” goes beyond what we say. It’s about what we do, how we set boundaries, and the ways we show up for ourselves and each other. So what does healthy excellence look like in practice? The episode features over 60 voices—new professionals, seasoned leaders, and everyone in between—offering authentic, actionable reflections on how we can care for ourselves while nurturing student wellbeing. A recurring theme is the importance of role modeling. As Eileen Hentz notes, we need to set boundaries, carve out “off” time, and not feel guilty for prioritizing ourselves. This was echoed by many who admitted that while we tell students to take care of themselves, we often fail to follow our own advice. But it’s about more than just taking a lunc

  The latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field is not only a must-listen for higher education professionals but a rich resource for anyone seeking insight into the dynamic landscape of student affairs. Dr. Jill Creighton hosts a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Amelia Parnell, the new president and CEO of NASPA, as she reflects on her journey, the evolving challenges facing the profession, and her vision for the organization and the field. Leadership Through Uncertainty One of the strongest themes of the episode is leadership amidst change and uncertainty. Dr. Parnell candidly discusses stepping into her presidential role during a significant period of transition—mirroring the larger flux happening across higher education. She emphasizes the importance of staying calm, understanding the complexities of policy shifts, and making informed decisions, especially as national and state regulations impact campuses at breakneck speed. The Power of Community Dr. Parnell’s gratitude for the NASPA communi

In the latest episode of NASPA's Student Affairs Voices from the Field, Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with Dr. Richard Walker, President of the University of Houston Clear Lake, to explore the past, present, and future of student affairs in higher education. With over four decades of experience, Dr. Walker brings a wealth of knowledge and unique perspectives, having transitioned from a career in student affairs to the presidency. Here’s a glimpse into the key themes covered in their enlightening conversation. Dr. Walker’s journey to the presidency is a testament to the value of diverse experiences and the encouragement of mentors. Initially set on retiring as a Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA), Walker’s career took an unexpected turn when he was encouraged to consider a presidential role. His story underscores the importance of being open to new opportunities and the impact of leaders who recognize potential. Once in the presidential seat, Dr. Walker’s student affairs background provided him with a di

In the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, host Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with Dr. Cynthia Hernandez, Vice President for Student Success at Texas State University, to delve into her extensive experience in student affairs and her vision for the future of the field. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in higher education, offering insights into leadership, professional development, and the evolving role of student affairs in fostering student success. Dr. Hernandez's journey into student affairs is a story of passion and dedication. With over 25 years of progressive leadership, her rise through the ranks is anything but ordinary. From an early involvement as a student leader to her current role guiding a division of over 400 staff, Cynthia's trajectory offers invaluable lessons for professionals at all stages of their careers. Although she initially embarked on a STEM path, earning a Bachelor's in Animal Science, she discovered her true calling in higher education, cataly

Unlocking the Potential of Community Colleges: Insights from Dr. Bette Simmons In a captivating episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with Dr. Bette Simmons, an esteemed leader in higher education, to delve into the transformative role of community colleges in today's academic landscape. Dr. Simmons, a celebrated figure in student affairs, shares her journey and insightful perspectives that challenge traditional views of community colleges and highlight their evolving importance in serving diverse student populations. A Career Dedicated to Student Success Dr. Simmons has devoted over four decades to enhancing student engagement, success, and leadership development, primarily within community colleges. Her career began serendipitously when a convincing interview led to an unexpected but remarkable path in student affairs at County College of Morris. Her story is a testament to the impact of passion-driven work and the profound influence mentors and community connection

In recent years, the landscape of substance use and recovery on college campuses has witnessed transformative shifts, urging a nuanced approach that combines compassion, education, and empowerment. In a revealing conversation on the "Student Affairs Voices from the Field" podcast, experts Dylan Dunn and Sydney Chifetz from the SAFE Project delve into their experiences and strategies in collegiate harm reduction and recovery, providing invaluable insights for higher education professionals. Prioritizing Student Autonomy and Education Dylan and Sydney emphasize the significance of placing students at the forefront of harm reduction efforts. Encouraging students to take charge of their health decisions, the duo highlights the importance of respecting student autonomy. By adopting motivational interviewing techniques and fostering open dialogue, professionals can aid students in discerning their relationship with substances and empower them to make informed choices. Education emerges as a key pillar in this proce

This week we will be taking a break while Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis will be attending the NASPA Conference. They look forward to seeing you at the conference and will be back after the conference! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:01]: Welcome to Student Affairs Voices from the Field, the podcast where we share your student affairs stories from fresh perspectives to seasoned experts. Brought to you by NASPA, we curate free and accessible professional development for higher ed professionals wherever you happen to be. This is season 12, continuing our journey through the past, present, and future of student affairs. I'm doctor Jill Creighton, she, her, hers, your essay voices from the field host. Hey, SA Voices listeners. Again, for those of you who are able to join us in New Orleans, we hope that we have gotten to see you this week. For those of you who are listening from elsewhere on planet Earth, thank you so much for bearing with us this week as we take our annual week off in order to

In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, the intersection of technology and student affairs is more significant than ever. In a recent discussion on the SA Voices from the Field podcast, guests James Quisenberry and David Chao, both seasoned professionals in student affairs technology, shared insights into their work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the University of Pittsburgh. They highlighted the essential role of technology in enhancing student experiences and the ongoing efforts to integrate innovative solutions within student affairs. The Journey into Student Affairs Technology Both Quisenberry and Chao entered the realm of student affairs through unique pathways. Quisenberry transitioned from the private sector back into higher education, finding his niche in IT leadership for housing divisions. Similarly, Chao moved from the business world to higher education, recognizing the impact student affairs professionals had on his own college experience. Their experiences underscor

The annual NASPA conference is a cherished opportunity for student affairs professionals to converge, connect, and collaborate. Hosts Dr. Jill Creighton and Producer Dr. Christopher Lewis express their enthusiasm for the New Orleans venue, where they aim to engage with colleagues, break bread, and create new podcast episodes. The conference serves as a hub for sharing knowledge, nurturing professional relationships, and embracing the vibrant culture of student affairs. Bringing Your Voices to Life Following in the path of previous seasons, Dr. Creighton and Dr. Lewis are eager to capture the voices of their peers. They'll roam the conference floors with recording devices, ready to engage attendees on themes of the past, present, and future of student affairs. The hosts encourage participants to bravely share their insights, promising that each voice is valued for the richness it adds to the profession. Live Episodes: Join the Conversation An exciting highlight of the conference will be the recording of two li

Student affairs professionals often encounter interim leadership positions, which can significantly impact a university's trajectory. This podcast episode from "Student Affairs Voices from the Field" explores the nuances of interim leadership with insights from Dr. Jen Myers Pickard and Dr. Leanna Fenneberg. What is Interim Leadership? Interim leadership occurs when a temporary leader steps into a role during a transition period at a higher education institution. As Dr. Jen Myers Pickard explains, there are typically two types of interim leaders: those who come from within the institution and those brought in externally. Internal interims can offer continuity, while external interims bring fresh perspectives and prevent internal disruption. The Purpose of Interim Leadership Dr. Pickard and Dr. Fenneberg articulate the goals of interim leadership. Universities may choose interim leaders to maintain momentum on strategic priorities, provide specific expertise, or mentor existing teams. Interim roles can also fa

Harnessing Professional Longevity and Growth Dr. Michael N. Christakis’s remarkable twenty-six-year journey at the University at Albany showcases a rare career longevity within a single institution in the realm of student affairs. From his early beginnings in housing and residence life to becoming the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Dr. Christakis exemplifies staying power through adaptability and curiosity. He credits his mentors, diverse professional opportunities, and openness to roles outside his comfort zone—such as spearheading student learning assessment initiatives—for his upward trajectory. For student affairs professionals aspiring for growth within one institution, Dr. Christakis recommends saying yes to new challenges, pursuing intentional professional development, and embracing adaptability in the face of the ever-evolving needs of the student body and higher education. Maintaining a strong connection to institutional community and family priorities was also key to

Bridging the Past, Present, and Future of Student Affairs with AI In the constantly evolving landscape of higher education, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a potent tool for student affairs professionals. In the latest episode of the "Student Affairs Voices from the Field" podcast, Dr. Jill Creighton spoke with Dr. Claire Brady as she shared her insights on how AI can be harnessed to streamline operations, free up time for deeper human connections, and enhance student success. Anchoring her discourse around the recently published NASPA AI report, Dr. Brady provides a roadmap for AI integration, framed through four crucial phases. Rapid Implementation: Where to Start Starting Small for Immediate Impact Dr. Brady emphasizes the importance of initiating AI integration through readily available solutions that address immediate challenges with minimal disruption. This phase centers around adopting free and low-cost tools that can yield quick wins. For instance, Kellogg Community College began using a C

In the demanding world of student affairs, professionals are adept at supporting students through crises, but often overlook the need to extend similar care to each other. In this week's "SA Voices from the Field," Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Melinda Stoops delve into the complexities of navigating grief and loss within the field, offering strategic insights for supporting colleagues during challenging times. Understanding the Impact of Grief in Higher Education Grief is a ubiquitous human experience, but its management within the professional environment, especially in student affairs, can be particularly delicate. Dr. Stoops emphasizes the significance of acknowledging grief and understanding that everyone processes it differently. She encourages a culture of empathy and grace, suggesting that it's critical to check in with colleagues and provide space for them to express their needs without imposing judgments or preconceived notions. Core Principles for Supporting Colleagues Dr. Stoops and Dr. Creighton hig

Exploring Student Affairs with International Grad Students The field of student affairs is continuously evolving, adapting to diverse educational landscapes worldwide. In this week's Student Affairs Voices from the Field, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton, we delve into the experiences and perspectives of six master's students from the hybrid master's course offered in collaboration with the European Council on Student Affairs (EECA) and NASPA. These students, hailing from various parts of Europe and beyond, share their insights on the past, present, and future of student affairs. Embracing the Past One recurring theme in the discussion was the value of preserving certain elements of student affairs' history. Simone Cameron Cohen emphasized the indispensable role of student voices in shaping university policies and support structures. She highlighted Ireland's robust student union organizational structure that ensures student representation in university governance, a system embedded in the nation’s legislation. J

Welcome to 2025! As we usher in a new year, it's essential to reflect on the whirlwind that was 2024. In our latest episode of SA Voices from the Field, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis, we delve into the rapid changes that shaped the past year. From the tumultuous political climate to personal and professional upheavals, 2024 was a year of significant transition for us all. Season 12: Continuing the Conversation With Season 12, we're committed to continuing our deep dive into the past, present, and future of student affairs. Our aim is to provide fresh perspectives and engaging conversations that resonate with higher education professionals globally. Expect insightful narratives from the upcoming annual NASPA conference in New Orleans and beyond. We’re keen to explore uncharted stories within our field and amplify voices from all corners of the world. Engaging with the Community We thrive on your input and encourage you to connect with us. If you'd like to share your story or suggest a