Fac/Staff Lounge

Laura A. De Veau, EdD

”Fac/Staff Lounge” is the go-to podcast for faculty and staff in US higher education. Join Dr. Laura De Veau, a seasoned higher education strategist and thought leader, as she explores pressing issues, trends, and innovations shaping American colleges and universities. With over three decades of experience in student affairs administration, Dr. De Veau brings expert insights and engaging discussions to the forefront of higher education discourse. Each episode features in-depth conversations with fellow educators, administrators, and industry experts, covering topics such as institutional challenges, professional development, policy changes, and best practices in teaching and leadership. Whether you’re a professor, administrator, or staff member, ”Fac/Staff Lounge” offers valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to navigate the complex landscape of US higher education. Stay informed, inspired, and connected with your peers as Dr. De Veau unpacks the latest developments in academia, from funding and enrollment trends to equity initiatives and technological advancements. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions that will enhance your understanding of the field and empower you to make a positive impact on your campus and beyond.

  1. 04/23/2025

    Reengaging with Joy in Student Affairs

    In this episode, Laura De Veau speaks with Andrew Pollom, Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Southern Maine, about rediscovering the joy in student affairs work. Andrew reflects on the challenges of the post-pandemic era and how rereading "Man's Search for Meaning" inspired him to focus on creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff. They discuss problem-solving, retention strategies, and the importance of embracing innovation and professional development to reignite passion in the field. Andrew emphasizes the value of celebrating student success and fostering a sense of vocation in higher education.   LINKS   Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-andrew-pollom/    “Man’s Search for Meaning”: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4069.Man_s_Search_for_Meaning    More about University of Southern Maine: https://usm.maine.edu/

    30 min

  2. 04/16/2025

    Organize, Don’t Agonize: Education and Democracy in Crisis

    In this conversation, Laura De Veau and Jess O'Connell discuss the intersection of education and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by higher education leaders in today's political climate. They explore the importance of community organizing, the impact of funding on education, and the potential consequences of dismantling the Department of Education. The discussion emphasizes the need for proactive engagement and the role of education in fostering a healthy democracy. In this conversation, Jess O'Connell and Laura De Veau discuss the significant challenges facing young people today, particularly in relation to education and the financial burdens they carry. They explore the despair felt by younger generations, the implications of educational reforms, the importance of data in education, and the need for respect for credentials. The conversation also highlights the necessity of coalition building among higher education leaders to address these issues strategically and effectively. Key Topics Covered: The role of education as a cornerstone for a healthy democracy. The financial and societal consequences of dismantling the Department of Education. The erosion of trust in educational institutions due to political interference. The importance of coalition building among higher education leaders for effective advocacy. Strategies for addressing despair among young people burdened by student loans. How data integrity and respect for credentials are essential to educational leadership. The necessity of proactive local engagement to drive systemic change. Quotes from the Episode: “Building community is not just important—it’s imperative for effective advocacy.” – Jess O'Connell “Education should be a hopeful profession that fosters learning, diversity, and opportunity.” – Laura De Veau Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Jess: https://www.newcostrategies.com/team/jess-oconnell National Disability Rights Network on the impact of dismantling the Department of Education: https://www.ndrn.org/resource/ed-eo/  Higher Education Coalition’s community service initiatives: https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/colleges-old/higher-ed-coalition/  NEA’s analysis on Project 2025’s implications for higher education: https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/project-2025-and-higher-education  Connect with Dr. De Veau and Join her in the Fac/Staff Lounge: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain

    46 min

  3. 04/09/2025

    Mini-ep: Crisis Management with Matthew Colpitts

    Laura welcomes Matt Colpitts, the Emergency Preparedness Manager at the University of Washington Bothell. They discuss pertinent issues regarding crisis management in higher education, particularly the challenges posed by political polarization, protests, and large events. Matt emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, cultural competency, and adaptability to evolving student demographics and societal changes. They also underscore the need for higher education institutions to go beyond mere compliance and actively ensure the emotional and physical well-being of their campus communities. The discussion concludes with a resolution for student affairs leaders to push for comprehensive crisis preparedness plans that reflect the diverse needs of modern student populations.   Topics 00:21 Meet Matt Colpitts: Emergency Preparedness Manager 00:57 Current Concerns in Higher Education 01:35 Protests and Security Challenges 02:41 Impact of Global and Domestic Crises 02:58 Strategic Crisis Management 05:26 Polarization and Security Risks 09:25 Generational Differences in Crisis Response 10:47 Adapting Crisis Management to Changing Demographics 13:28 The Importance of Cultural Competency 17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    18 min

  4. 04/02/2025

    Dr. Elizabeth Allan on the Stop Campus Hazing Act

    Laura welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Allan, a University of Maine professor of Higher Education and founder of the research group Stop Hazing. Dr. Allan shares her insights on the Stop Campus Hazing Act, signed into law by President Biden on December 24th. She delves into the years of effort that culminated in this legislation, its requirements for colleges to implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs, and her involvement in research and policy advocacy. The episode also explores the broader implications for campus culture, the challenges of implementation, and the multidisciplinary approach required to address hazing in higher education. Dr. Allan emphasizes the importance of transparency, comprehensive prevention strategies, and the collective efforts needed to change campus climates.   Topics 00:26 Introducing Dr. Elizabeth Allan and Her Work 01:25 The Stop Campus Hazing Act 02:08 Personal Anecdotes and Early Career 04:54 Dr. Allan's Journey into Anti-Hazing Work 13:44 Challenges and Surprises in Hazing Research 17:07 Legislative Process and Collaboration 22:37 Understanding the Impact of Hearings on Campus Safety 23:19 Engaging with Lawmakers: Questions and Concerns 24:59 Balancing Practitioner and Faculty Perspectives 27:43 The Comprehensive National Study on Hazing 30:28 Implementing Hazing Prevention on Campuses 32:25 Resources and Support for Hazing Prevention 34:59 Expanding Research and Future Directions 43:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    46 min

  5. 03/26/2025

    Mini-ep: Iona University's Joel Quintong

    Laura De Veau chats with Joel Quintong, Dean of Students at Iona University, about the unique mission of Catholic institutions of higher education in a rapidly changing world. Joel discusses the growing trend of lay leadership in these institutions and the importance of maintaining their Catholic identity and values. They explore the need for leaders and staff who understand and respect the Catholic tradition, connecting it to contemporary challenges. Joel emphasizes the significance of the founding mission in Catholic institutions.    Want to be a Mini Episode Guest? Email Laura at: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain    LINKS:    Connect with Joel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-quintong-4097b89/  More about Iona University: https://www.iona.edu/

    20 min

  6. 03/19/2025

    The DEI Challenge: Marybeth Gasman of Rutgers

    Laura discusses the impacts of recent executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives with Dr. Marybeth Gasman, Director of the Center for Minority Serving Institutions at Rutgers University. Dr. Gasman shares the challenges faced by her center following an executive order that resulted in the cancellation of a virtual conference on registered apprenticeships. She emphasizes the importance of proper crisis management, effective communication, and strategic funding to navigate such disruptions. Additionally, Dr. Gasman highlights the center’s dedication to supporting minority-serving institutions and their innovative programs, including a new research and innovation fellowship aimed at tackling community issues. The conversation also touches on the personal and professional impacts of these challenges, reinforcing the need for leadership training and resilience in academia.   To connect with Dr. De Veau’s Guest, Dr. Gasman: https://gse.rutgers.edu/faculty/marybeth-gasman/  To learn more about the Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions: https://cmsi.gse.rutgers.edu/  To connect with Dr. De Veau and learn more about her Substack, her book and more: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain    Topics 00:51 Meet Dr. Marybeth Gasman 01:07 Impact of Executive Orders on DEI Initiatives 02:38 Navigating Professional and Ethical Travel Choices 02:47 Exploring Philadelphia's Culinary Scene 04:32 Introduction to the Center for Minority Serving Institutions 06:13 Challenges and Successes of the Center 09:12 The Canceled Conference: Background and Impact 14:55 Misunderstandings and Media Reactions 24:15 Engaging with Social Media 24:47 Facing Criticism from the Left 26:13 Advice on Handling Executive Orders 27:42 Crisis Communication Strategies 29:53 Leadership and Crisis Management 30:57 Funding and Budgeting in Higher Ed 33:16 Training and Support for Leaders 35:48 Challenges in Academic Leadership 41:19 Rutgers' Approach to Center Reviews 43:55 Looking Forward: Exciting Projects 45:39 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

    47 min

  7. 03/12/2025

    Welcome to the Fac/Staff Lounge

    In the premiere episode of The Faculty Staff Lounge, Dr. Laura De Veau introduces the new podcast transitioning from Office Hours with Dr. De Veau. Recorded at the 50th Maryland Student Affairs Conference (MSAC), this episode features a panel discussion moderated by Dr. De Veau, with panelists Dr. Mamta Accapadi, Dr. Brian McGowan, and Dr. Paige Haber Curran. The theme 'Leading with Heart' guides a deep dive into fostering trust, leveraging emotional intelligence, and adapting student affairs practices in a changing landscape. The episode also addresses critical issues like institutional closures and political challenges to DEI efforts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, transparency, and community in higher education.   Topics   00:00 Welcome to The Faculty Staff Lounge 01:25 Introduction to the 50th MSAC Conference 04:29 Panel Discussion: Leading with Heart 08:16 Building Trust in Higher Education 19:10 Challenges and Emotional Energy in Leadership 30:02 The Importance of Human Connection 36:24 Co-Creating Experiences with Students 37:15 Empathy and Self-Work 38:25 Family History and Resilience 40:56 Intergenerational Impact and Indigenous Wisdom 42:10 Addressing Deficit Ideology in Education 46:48 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 52:04 Challenges Facing Higher Education 55:21 Post-Pandemic Student Engagement 01:02:52 Future of Student Affairs and DEI 01:10:05 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

    1h 12m
  8. NASPA President Dr. Amelia Parnell

    05/29/2024

    NASPA President Dr. Amelia Parnell

    In this finale episode for Season 4, It was Dr. De Veau’s pleasure to speak with Dr. Amelia Parnell, the newly appointed President of NASPA, discussing her transition to the role that will begin July 1, 2024. Getting to know Amelia and her motivation to become the next NASPA President. Amelia is a data head and hard-wired optimist. And we spend time speaking about both! (Dat and optimism) … but we also discussed the challenges that the profession is facing. She shares personal anecdotes that shaped her leadership philosophy, including her first job experiences and the lessons learned from them about complex systems, quality control, and the importance of every role in an organization Parnell expresses a strong commitment to innovation and community within NASPA. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing NASPA’s role as a vibrant community of professionals dedicated to advancing the field of student affairs. Looking ahead, Amelia acknowledges the challenges facing the field of student affairs but remains optimistic about the opportunities for growth and innovation. She highlights the importance of balancing joy and challenge in her work, aiming to foster an environment where both can thrive Amelia values deep, meaningful engagement and is committed to building strong relationships within the NASPA community and beyond. She mentions her approach to leadership as one that is inclusive and collaborative, aiming to bring together diverse voices and perspectives to enrich the field. Bio for Guest: https://naspa.org/people/dr-amelia-parnell Linked In for Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameliaparnell/ Amilia’s Book, “You are a Data Person”: https://www.routledge.com/You-Are-a-Data-Person-Strategies-for-Using-Analytics-on-Campus/Parnell/p/book/9781642671377 Office Hours with Dr. De Veau is a podcast designed for the Higher Education community by a Higher Education professional. It is produced by David Yas and Pod617 studios. Dr. Laura De Veau is Principal & Founder of Fortify Associates, LLC. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to Dr. De Veau’s Substack Newsletter, “What’s Up in the Academy?” and follow her on Social Media. https://linktr.ee/deveautrain

    44 min
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About

”Fac/Staff Lounge” is the go-to podcast for faculty and staff in US higher education. Join Dr. Laura De Veau, a seasoned higher education strategist and thought leader, as she explores pressing issues, trends, and innovations shaping American colleges and universities. With over three decades of experience in student affairs administration, Dr. De Veau brings expert insights and engaging discussions to the forefront of higher education discourse. Each episode features in-depth conversations with fellow educators, administrators, and industry experts, covering topics such as institutional challenges, professional development, policy changes, and best practices in teaching and leadership. Whether you’re a professor, administrator, or staff member, ”Fac/Staff Lounge” offers valuable perspectives and actionable strategies to navigate the complex landscape of US higher education. Stay informed, inspired, and connected with your peers as Dr. De Veau unpacks the latest developments in academia, from funding and enrollment trends to equity initiatives and technological advancements. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions that will enhance your understanding of the field and empower you to make a positive impact on your campus and beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    Laura A. De Veau, EdD
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Fac/Staff Lounge