SA Voices From the Field

Dr. Jill Creighton, NASPA

4.7 (23)
EDUCATION
UPDATED WEEKLY

SA Voices from the Field shares the voices and stories from student affairs professionals from around the world. This podcast provides you with practical advice to help you be the best student affairs practitioner you can be, no matter where you are in your career.

1D AGO

Looking Forward To Seeing You At The 2026 NASPA Annual Conference

The latest episode of SA Voices from the Field, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis, is a must-listen for anyone in higher education and student affairs! As they gear up for the 2026 NASPA annual conference, both hosts share their excitement about reconnecting with colleagues and gathering authentic stories from attendees. A unique highlight this season: Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis will be moving around the conference with recording devices, collecting answers to three carefully crafted questions tied to the event's focus areas. Can't attend in person? No worries! We will bring key conference moments and voices directly to the podcast, ensuring every listener can still benefit from the rich professional insights. Whether you're there in Kansas City or tuning in from afar, this episode is packed with community spirit and practical tips. 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 education professionals wherever you happen to be. This is Season 14, continuing our conversation on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she/her/hers, your SA Voices from the Field host. Hey, Chris. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:27]: Hey, Jill. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:29]: It's been an incredible week of gearing up for annual conference. I hope everyone has enjoyed our annual conference episode with Jose and Mike. Chris, what are you most looking forward to? Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:40]: Well, our annual meetup, of course, is one of my most exciting times when we get to actually be in person and talking. But I love being able to talk with all of the people that are coming to the conference. I'm going to be recording questions questions with people from the conference, and I'm really looking forward to some of their answers. You know, we have 3 main questions that we're asking individuals, and we'll be walking around asking people. So if you see Jill or I with our recorders out, please come up to us, talk to us, because we would love to be able to have your voices as a part of this. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:19]: And even if you see us and we don't have our recorders out, but you'd really like to submit your voice for the podcast, we really want to hear from you. So Chris and I will be moving about with our handhelds asking you the 3 questions that we've got scripted for this year's conference focus areas that you heard about from Jose and Mike. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:37]: But Chris, I wish you all of the safe travels. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:40]: And just to let our listeners know, we're taking the week off from releasing an episode so we can be present at Annual. So we'll be back in 2 weeks with a new episode for you. We wish all of you safe travels. And Chris, anything else before we head out to Kansas City? Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:55]: No, looking forward to it. Safe travels to you, Jill, and safe travels to everyone else. Looking forward to seeing you all. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:02]: And if we can't see you there, we are going to be capturing some conversations with some key speakers as well as the voices of you all. So if you're going to not be able to join us this year, we'll make sure that you get to have some of that experience. So whether we'll be seeing you in person in Kansas City or whether you're going to be listening to the content from the podcast after the conference, we hope that it's an enriching experience and we'll be back with a normal episode in 2 weeks. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:31]: This has been an episode of SA Voices from the Field, brought to you by NASPA. This show is made possible because of you, the listeners. We continue to be so grateful that you choose to spend your time with us. If you'd like to reach the show, you can email us at savoices@naspa.org or find me on LinkedIn by searching for Dr. Jill L. Creighton. We welcome your feedback and your topic and guest suggestions always. We'd love it if you take a moment to tell a colleague about the show and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening now. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:00]: It really does help other student affairs professionals find the show and helps us to become more visible in the larger podcasting community. This episode was produced and hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton. That's me. Produced and audio engineered by Dr. Chris Lewis. Special thanks to the University of Michigan Flint for your support as we create this project. Catch you next time.

3 min
3D AGO

Discover What's New at NASPA 2026: Themes, Tips, and Conference Insights

Are you getting ready for the 2026 NASPA Annual Conference in Kansas City? Whether you're a seasoned attendee or venturing out for the first time, this year's event promises to be a transformative experience for student affairs professionals everywhere. The latest episode of the "Student Affairs Voices from the Field" podcast, hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton, dives into everything you need to know about the upcoming conference, offering behind-the-scenes insights and invaluable tips. In this special episode, Dr. Jill Creighton is joined by Dr. Michael N. Christakis, NASPA Board Chair, and Dr. José-Luis Riera, Vice President for Student Life at the University of Delaware and the 2026 Annual Conference Chair. Together, they explore the vision and meticulous planning that goes into creating one of the most important gatherings for student affairs professionals. Conference Focus Areas: The conversation orbits around three core themes that will define this year's conference: Elevating Student Affairs: Embracing Our Impact – Discover how the profession leverages data, technology, and AI to demonstrate tangible outcomes and meet the growing expectations of students, families, and employers. Focusing on People: The Heart of the Profession – After several tumultuous years in higher education, there's a renewed emphasis on community, connection, and supporting the wellbeing of student affairs practitioners. From opening session changes to intentional networking lounges, the conference is designed with people in mind. Pathways to Student Success: Thriving in Higher Education – Despite shifting models, the heartbeat of student affairs remains centered on supporting student success. The conference will tackle who "owns" and contributes to this vital work as institutions continue to evolve. Why Should You Listen? If you're attending the conference for the first time (along with 20% of attendees!), you'll find actionable advice—from navigating the app to building meaningful connections, even if you're an introvert. The episode also gives a shout-out to Kansas City's vibrant culture, and how it will shape the conference experience, inside and outside the convention center. Whether you want to get inspired, feel prepared, or just find the best spot for barbecue or vegetarian fare, this episode is bursting with valuable tips. Don't miss out on hearing from the leaders who bring the conference to life and finding those nuggets of wisdom for your student affairs journey. Tune in now and take your NASPA conference experience—from both the inside and outside—up a notch! 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 education professionals wherever you happen to be. This is Season 14, continuing our conversation on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she/her/hers, your SA Voices from the Field host. Let's get ready for NASPA 2026's annual conference. Today I'm joined by both our board chair as well as our conference chair to tell us all about what to expect this year in Kansas City, Missouri. If you're a first-time attendee, we also spend some time talking about how to navigate this conference schedule that is incredibly rich but can also be a little bit overwhelming. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:46]: Our first guest is Dr. Mike Christakis, who is our NASPA board chair, and he's also the vice president for student affairs and enrollment at the University of Albany. We had Mike on last year when he took the board chair seat, so if you'd like to learn more about him and his background, I highly encourage you to go back and listen to his episode. Our second guest is a first-timer on the podcast, Dr. José Luis Riera, who's currently the Vice President for Student Life at the University of Delaware and also our 2026 annual conference chair for NASPA. With over 20 years of experience in student affairs and higher ed, José oversees a comprehensive student affairs division whose fundamental work involves advancing equity and inclusion, deepening student learning, and attending to the student's holistic development. José's vision is rooted in leading consequential student affairs work that leads to student flourishing and student success for all students. Since arriving at the University of Delaware in 2010, he served in several positions within student life, including Associate Dean and Dean of Students. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:38]: He's a frequent presenter at national conferences, an active contributor to the advancement of higher ed and student affairs, and is a member of APLU, ACPA, and NASPA. He is currently our 2026 conference chair, and he's put a ton of work across the last 18 months to make this experience happen for us in Kansas City. He's the author and co-creator of several articles and book reviews in professional journals, and he's the author and co-author of multiple book chapters focused on on the application of the social change model. Jose began his career in higher education as a student steeped in the liberal arts with a double major in music and biology at Muhlenberg College. He then earned a master's degree in student affairs and higher education from Colorado State University and a PhD in college student personnel from the University of Maryland, College Park. He lives in Newark, Delaware with his wife Kate, a faculty member in human development and family sciences at the University of Delaware, and they have 4 girls and 2 dogs. Welcome back to SA Voices, Mike. Dr. Michael N. Christakis [00:02:30]: Hey, it's great to be here, Jill. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:31]: And Jose, first-time guest. Lovely to have you. Welcome. Dr. José-Luis Riera [00:02:34]: Thanks for having me. Excited to join in on this episode. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:37]: We are recording just in advance of all of us descending on Kansas City, Missouri for the annual conference. This year we are thrilled to have Jose in the chair seat for the conference and Mike as one of his last things to do as current NASPA board chair. So before we get started with the preview of the conference, Mike, you've been on the show before. Do you want to remind listeners how you got to your current seat, both as NASPA Board Chair and at University of Albany. Dr. Michael N. Christakis [00:03:03]: Sure. Thanks, Jill. Yeah, so I'm at the University at Albany in New York State. I've been at UAlbany in my 26th year. Got to UAlbany, as y'all might recall, as a graduate student, had a graduate assistantship in student affairs, worked through residential life, and then have been at the honor of serving as Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment here for the last 11 years. Have been involved with NASPA throughout most of my professional journey here at UAlbany, serving both as Regional Director for Region 2, co-chair of the Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Knowledge Community. And have the pleasure now of serving as chair. And as Jill noted, I will be concluding my chair service when the annual conference concludes in Kansas City. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:38]: Thank you. And Jose, first-time guest, your turn. How did you get to your current seat, both at Delaware as well as in the conference chairship? Dr. José-Luis Riera [00:03:46]: Yeah, so I'll take on Delaware first. I've been at the University of Delaware since 2010, so just past 15 years here. And most of my earlier career was in residence life and housing and in student conduct work and spent 4 years at the University of Maryland College Park prior to coming here at Delaware, but came as the Associate Dean of Students, served as the Dean of Students here, and was very fortunate to be able to compete for the Vice President position. So I've been in that position formally since 2018. And then NASPA has always been central to my professional development. I would say most of my service has been in helping to contribute around professional development programs, most recently working on the faculty and then directing, co-directing the Institute for folks who are aspiring to be vice presidents of student affairs, which was a really fun opportunity for me. And then I was very fortunate to have Mike call me. I think it's one of the privileges of board chairs is to think through who they would like leading the conference that ultimately, I think, expresses and culminates their work at NASPA in the, in that board chair position. Dr. José-Luis Riera [00:04:57]: And so, yeah, it's just, it's, it's been a really, really fun ride for 18+ months. Dr. Michael N. Christakis [00:05:01]: I will say, Jill, just to underscore Jose's point, it actually is quite literally the first major decision you take on as chair-elect. I mean, it really is like they call you to let you know you were elected, super exciting, and less than 24 hours later, they're like, and who's your conference chair? I'm very, very grateful that Jose, who I'd had the opportunity to work alongside in both NASPA and APLU circles, we're, we're both involved with APLU, agreed to take on this. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:26]: So Mike, you get elected, you say, Jose, please chair this conference. Jose, had you been in the NASPA conference circles before? Dr. José-Luis Riera [00:05:34]: So actually, yeah, I've, um, under a very different model. Probably, I think, sometime around like 2009 or '10, I served on the Program Selection Committee, which back then was meeting at NASPA headquarters for a weekend with a lot of paper and going through program reviews. So that was my foray into conference and then volunteering along the way and doing those types of things. But yeah. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:59]: So what does the chair do? What is your job? Dr. J

46 min
FEB 26

Creating a Global Community: Student Affairs Beyond Borders

Student Affairs professionals around the world are breaking new ground, and there's never been a better time to be part of the conversation. On a recent episode of "Student Affairs Voices from the Field," host Dr. Jill Creighton welcomed four visionary leaders who are at the forefront of reshaping how we think about student affairs globally. This dynamic episode shines a spotlight on NASPA's inaugural global division publication, "Creating a Global Community," which seeks to bridge knowledge and practice across borders. What makes this episode truly inspiring is hearing directly from the publication's curators: Omneya Badr, Dr. Jeanine Ward-Roof, Dr. Brett Perozzi, and Dr. Heidi October. Their collective experiences span continents—bringing diverse insights from South Africa, the Middle East, the United States, and beyond. Listeners learn that student affairs is not just an "add-on" in higher education; it is essential and transformative, especially when professionals share knowledge and lift each other up. A recurring theme on the podcast is the importance of amplifying voices that are not always heard. Omneya Badr speaks passionately about the need to provide a platform for first-time authors and institutions outside the Western mainstream, emphasizing that "what you're doing is worthy of sharing." The team's vision for the publication is not only to showcase best practices but also to encourage practitioners everywhere, whatever their background or training, to contribute and see themselves as part of a truly global profession. Another powerful message centers on adapting student affairs to the unique contexts and needs of different regions. From showcasing non-English contributions to supporting professionals who may not have formal degrees in the field, the publication (and this episode) celebrate innovation and inclusivity. For those curious about what the future holds, the episode sets an optimistic tone. The intent isn't just knowledge sharing; it's catalytic—fostering networks, co-authorship, and a sense of belonging for professionals worldwide. Whether you're an experienced leader or just starting out, you'll find practical advice, encouragement, and an invitation to participate in the next wave of global student affairs scholarship. If you want to be inspired by stories of resilience, collaboration, and the boundless potential of higher education, this is an episode you shouldn't miss. Tune in and discover how you, too, can be a part of this exciting global conversation. 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 education professionals wherever you happen to be. This is Season 14, continuing our conversation on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she/her/hers, your SA Voices from the Field host. Today on SA Voices, I'm pleased to bring you 4 incredible guests who are here to talk about NASPA's newest publication that focuses on global student services all throughout the world. The 4 guests today were in charge of curating, editing, and ultimately producing NASPA's very first publication focusing on student affairs practices from around the globe. 2 of the guests we'll have on today you've met before, and 2 are brand new to the pod. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:50]: Our first returning guest is Omneya Bader. Omneya is an educator and student affairs professional who gained a culturally diverse higher education experience studying, teaching, and working in Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, the UK, and the United States. She currently serves on NASPA's Board of Directors and is the Director of NASPA's Global Division, past Director of the MENASA Region, and in the 2021 and 2022 years she served as the MENASA Conference Chair. She held teaching and academic advising positions at the New York Institute of Technology Bahrain, Bahrain Institute of Business and Finance, Qatar University, and Trinity University. She's a frequent presenter at NASPA conferences, and her research interests are culturally based academic advising, supporting first-generation students, first-year experience, and cross-cultural communication. She holds an MBA from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom, a certificate of entrepreneurial and small business operations from the Academy of Arts in California, and a Bachelor of Arts in Management from the American University in Cairo, Egypt. She recently acquired a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace certificate from the University of South Florida. As an educator, Amnea enjoys giving back to the profession and is interested in creating the professional development opportunity space for global student affairs professionals and encouraging research and sharing knowledge amongst counterparts around the world. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:03]: For our next guest, we're pleased to welcome back to the pod Dr. Jeanine Ward-Roof, who currently serves as the Vice President for Student Affairs at Ferris State University, where she joined in 2014. She has over 30 years of experience in student affairs and is currently responsible for the leadership, direction, supervision, and assessment of the Division of Student Affairs, which is inclusive of many, many student support services and departments. She's active in NODA, which is the National Orientation Directors Association and has held many positions in NASPA where she's been presenting and publishing on a myriad of topics throughout her career. At Ferris State, she's also the co-chair of the Ferris United Way campaign, serves on the President's Council, is the chair of the FSU Reentry Committee, and is a member of the Strategic Planning and Resource Committee, and serves as one of the advisors for the FSU Student Government Association. She earned her bachelor's degree in communication from Ohio University, a master in college student personnel from Bowling Green State, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from Clemson. Additionally, she's received numerous awards, two of the most notable being the NODA Circle of Excellence in 2019, and in 2015, she was one of our very own NASPA Foundation's Pillar of the Profession. She spent her career working with college students and their families and can think of no better way to support student success than creating diverse and inclusive environments where students can explore their values and debate knowledge in a close community setting. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:22]: Joining us on the pod for the very first time is Dr. Heidi October, who hails from South Africa. Dr. October currently serves serves on Stellenbosch University's Student Affairs Senior Management Team as Deputy Director, Center for Student Life and Learning, and Head, Frederik van Zyl Stabbert Leadership Institute. She's responsible for the strategic leadership and research for student leadership programs for academic transcript recognition. She has extensive higher education experience spanning over 25 years and stakeholder relations benchmarking at more than 30 international universities. She's been awarded with the Vice-Chancellor's Awards for Excellence in Achievement. She has been awarded with Vice-Chancellor's Awards for Excellent Achievement as Student Leader and Leader staff member, an academic achievement award from the University of Pretoria, where she obtained her PhD in leadership studies, and has been awarded honorary membership in the International Golden Key Society for her contribution to leadership. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:12]: She has guest lectured at the Association of Commonwealth Universities Summer School, MCI Business School Innsbruck, Austria, and KU Leuven, Belgium, and regularly presents scholarly papers at international academic conferences in Europe, the United States, and Africa. She's the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Susan Comives Award for inspiring research in student leadership. Our fourth Guest today, also joining us on the pod for the very first time, is Dr. Brett Perazzi. Brett is the CEO of the Global Student Affairs Consulting Group, or GSA Consulting. He most recently served as Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Salt Lake Community College, which is 50,000 students across 8 campuses in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. He previously served as Vice President for Student Affairs at Weber State University and in senior administrative roles at Arizona State and Colorado State University. He holds a PhD from Indiana University and a master's degree from the University of Arizona, both in higher education administration, with a bachelor's degree in education from the State University of New York. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:08]: Brett has served as a faculty member in higher education graduate programs at 6 universities and co-founded the Higher Education Leadership Program at Weber State University. Brett has authored more than 50 publications, including 2 books on international student affairs and services. He's been an active volunteer with NASPA for more than 2 decades, helping explore and expand global impact and support for student affairs and services. Brett is a founding member of the International Association Association of Student Affairs and Services, or IASIS, and has been invited to assist and support Student Affairs and Services colleagues worldwide. He and his partner Terry enjoy traveling, eating, and creating delicious food, and experiencing all four seasons in their mountain location with their Siberian Husky Akira. I'm so excited to bring in members of our Global Division Board today, specifically to talk about the brand new and inaugural publication for the Global Division, which we're gonna talk all about today. So we've got a couple of guests on. Our first i

1 hr
FEB 19

Empowering Undergraduates: Inside NASPA's Student Affairs Leadership Conference

What does it take to inspire the next generation of student affairs professionals? In the latest episode of "Student Affairs Voices from the Field," host Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with a dynamic team—Dr. Brooke Paradise, Sohan Daniel, and Anthony Froelich—who are shaping NASPA's Undergraduate Student Conference (USC). If you're passionate about developing young leaders, building inclusive communities, or just curious about meaningful ways to support undergraduates, this episode is for you. A Unique Space for Aspiring Leaders Breaking the mold of traditional conferences, the Undergraduate Student Conference is crafted not just for those considering student affairs as a career, but for any undergraduate eager to build leadership and transferable skills. Attendees come from diverse backgrounds and majors, from "diehard student affairs" hopefuls to business majors looking to expand their horizons. The common thread? A genuine curiosity about leadership and life after graduation. Mentorship and Networking in Action What makes the USC experience stand out is its intentional focus on mentorship and reflective engagement. As Dr. Brooke Paradise shares, the conference blends mainstay features—keynote speakers, concurrent sessions—with hands-on, small group breakouts led by graduate students and professionals. These mentor-led groups offer undergrads a supportive, approachable space to ask questions, reflect, and make lasting connections—a practice that Sohan Daniel credits with propelling his own career journey from attendee to committee leader. Accessible Professional Development The panel highlights the accessibility of the conference and its value for both undergraduates and professionals. Faculty and staff can support students in attending—whether by navigating travel logistics or encouraging independent growth. As Anthony Froelich notes, volunteering as a small group facilitator is an "easy entry point" for professionals looking to give back to the field. The Bigger Picture: The Value of Student Affairs From powerful personal stories about overcoming first-generation struggles to reflections on how mentorship and community can be a "life vest" for students, the episode underscores the broader impact of student affairs. It's about creating space, fostering belonging, and ensuring every student feels seen. Ready to be inspired and learn how you can make a difference? Tune in to this episode and discover why the Undergraduate Student Conference is a launching pad for tomorrow's change-makers—and maybe even get involved yourself! Catch the full episode wherever you get your podcasts—don't miss out on these fresh perspectives shaping the future of higher education! 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 education professionals wherever you happen to be. This is Season 14, continuing our conversation on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she/her/hers, your SA Voices from the Field host. Today on SA Voices, we're bringing you 3 guests who are currently planning the undergraduate student conference for 2026. Our first guest is Dr. Brooke Paradise, they/them, who is the Associate Dean of Student Affairs for Inclusion and Engagement at Skidmore College, where they provide strategic oversight for campus life and engagement and supervise functional areas including leadership activities, religious and spiritual life, and student diversity and equity. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:49]: With 15+ years of experience across higher education, Brooke is known for building student-centered systems that strengthen belonging, equity, and student success including developing a comprehensive residential curriculum from the ground up and facilitating a learning community that bridges faculty and staff partnerships. Brooke's scholarship and professional practice center neurodivergence and inclusion in the workspace, translating research into actionable strategies that support cognitive diversity and sustainable culture change. They regularly deliver national trainings and presentations, including a NASPA national conference session on the lived experiences of neurodivergent student affairs professionals and inclusive workplace practices, as well as professional leadership development programming. Brooke has also facilitated DEI trainings for the NCAA Division I student athletes and coaching staff and led DEI-focused training for resident advisors. In addition, they serve in the National Association leadership roles with NASPA, including positions supporting assessment, learning outcomes, and undergraduate pipeline development. Our second guest is Sohan Daniel, who is a coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, or UTK, in the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, where he supports students through accountability-centered practices that emphasize learning, growth, and personal development. Prior to joining UTK, Sohan completed his master's degree at the Ohio State University, where he was introduced to student conduct work while serving as an assistant hall director. Through this experience, he developed a strong belief in accountability as a powerful tool for student learning and transformation, and he values the opportunity to help students navigate challenges while building skills for both personal and academic success. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:18]: In addition to his role as coordinator, Sohan serves as the chair-elect for NASPA's Undergraduate Student Conference, or USC. He pursued this opportunity after witnessing the impact USC can have on launching attendees' careers in student affairs. Sohan earned his Bachelor of Science in Sport in Exercise Psychology from West Virginia University and his Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs from The Ohio State University. Our third guest is Anthony Fralick, who has over a decade of experience within student affairs, having explored the various areas of the profession at public and private four-year universities and two-year community colleges. Anthony currently serves as an academic advisor at the Lone Star College System's Tomball campus, where he has spent the last 3.5 years establishing its career services. As an advisor, he supports students as they pursue competitive health science programs or transfer to university partners. He's worked with several graduate students in higher education and student affairs programs, allowing them to see the inner workings of both community colleges and advising, career, and transfer services during their internships. Anthony is a native Houstonian and has a long history with the college dating back before his time as a student. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:22]: He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a math and science concentration from Houston Baptist University, now Houston Christian University, and a Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from Sam Houston State University. Welcome back to our next episode of Student Affairs voices from the field. I'm glad to have 3 guests on today, all who are working with NASPA's undergraduate conference. So first, I'd like to welcome Brooke. Dr. Brooke Paradise [00:03:45]: Hey folks, Dr. Brooke Paradise, they/them/their pronouns. Nice to meet you all. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:49]: And now we have Sohan. Sohan Daniel [00:03:51]: Hey everyone, uh, Sohan Daniel, he/him/his pronouns. Great to meet you. Great to chat with you today. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:55]: And finally, Anthony. Anthony Froelich [00:03:57]: Howdy, Anthony Freilich from Houston, Texas, he/him pronouns. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:00]: So we have folks from 3 different institutions across the US today. Again, we've got New York State, we've got Texas, and we've got Tennessee. So we always always like to start our episodes by asking you, how did you get to your current seat? And Brooke, we'll start with you. Dr. Brooke Paradise [00:04:13]: To my current seat, I've been in student affairs for 15 years, and then this job popped up. And throughout those 15 years, I've worked at a multitude of institutions, and I love the small liberal arts. And this job came up and I was like, their mantra is creative thought matters. I love that. So I applied and here we are. I got lucky. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:31]: And Sowen, you're pretty new in Tennessee. How did you end up there? Sohan Daniel [00:04:35]: Yeah, I just graduated from my master's program back in May, and I was looking all over the place, had no idea where in the United States I would end up. But I was very passionate about land-grant institutions and the missions they hold. And University of Tennessee had an opening with Student Conduct and felt the desire to apply. And now I'm here. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:52]: Congratulations on making your transition from student into professional. And Anthony? Anthony Froelich [00:04:57]: So for me, as I'm similar to Brooke, as I've had over a decade of student affairs experience in different areas since I was an undergrad student, I worked at both 4-year and 2-year community college institutions. And the community college institution really fit my, what I felt like as my personal needs for helping students prepare for those long-term, both academic and career trajectories. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:18]: All three of you are helping to lead the Undergraduate Conference for NASPA, which is coming up this spring. For our NASPA members who have never heard of this, or maybe didn't do the NUFP program, what is the Undergraduate Conference? Dr. Brooke Paradise [00:05:30]: So the undergrad program is exactly what it sounds like. It's for undergrad students coming,

47 min
FEB 13

Charting the North Star: Dr. Darryl Holloman's Vision for Student Affairs

The latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field kicks off Season 14 with a truly inspiring conversation with incoming NASPA Board Chair, Dr. Darryl Holloman. Hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton, the episode dives deep into the evolving landscape of higher education and what it means to work in student affairs today. Dr. Holloman brings over three decades of experience to the table, spanning roles at HBCUs, PWIs, and across governance, academic administration, and talent management. His journey to Vice President for Student Affairs at Spelman College is a testament to the power of mentorship, professional exploration, and seizing unexpected opportunities. The conversation focuses on the value and challenges facing student affairs professionals, particularly in a period marked by ongoing turmoil—post-pandemic disruption, shifting enrollment, and threats to DEI initiatives. Dr. Holloman emphasizes the need to move beyond accepting the "new normal" and instead frame current challenges as "new possibilities," encouraging professionals to be both forward-ready and future-ready. At the heart of his vision is the "North Star Project," an initiative designed to reclaim public trust and redefine the purpose of higher education. This multifaceted endeavor includes three key arms: Rebuilding Public Trust Survey: A national study examining how those outside higher ed perceive colleges and universities, pushing for deeper understanding beyond the usual Gallup poll data. New Professional Task Force: A focus on early-career professionals, listening deeply to their needs, and developing skill-building opportunities—like real-time badging systems—to help retain talent and strengthen the student affairs pipeline. NASPA Commission on HBCU and Community College Pathways: An effort to amplify the voices of HBCUs and community colleges within NASPA's governance, reflecting their crucial roles in access and mission-driven education. Dr. Holloman's personal values—knowledge, God, family, humility, and hard work—shine throughout the discussion, reinforcing the importance of aligning purpose and professional philosophy. If you're looking for insight into the future of student affairs, practical strategies for professional development, and a fresh take on the value of our field, this is a must-listen. Tune in to hear how Dr. Holloman and NASPA are charting a new course, and discover ways to get involved in shaping the next chapter. Listen to the episode and join the conversation! 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 education professionals wherever you happen to be. This is Season 14, continuing our conversation on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she/her/hers, your SA Voices from the Field host. Welcome back to Student Affairs Voices from the Field. We are thrilled to kick off our current season with Dr. Darryl B. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:33]: Holloman, who is a distinguished leader in higher education with over 3 decades of experience in student affairs, academic administration, institutional advancement, governance and board relations, and human talent management. Dr. Holloman has worked at several regional and nationally recognized higher education institutions where he supervised collectively over 300 employees and overseen budgets of over $300 million. Dr. Holloman's extensive experience strategically vision and unwavering commitment to student success and institutional excellence make him a transformative leader in higher ed. He currently serves as the VPSA at Spelman College, but he's held senior-level positions at Georgia State University, Columbus State University, and Rutgers University-Newark. He's held faculty appointments at each institution, including full-time faculty appointments at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock and the institutions aforementioned. His contributions continue to inspire and shape the future of academic communities. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:23]: Dr. Holloman has several articles and book chapters to his credit. His research examines the way that disadvantage manage groups, develop, and demonstrate their agency in educational systems, particularly within urban school settings. He's the co-editor of the book entitled From Boyhood to Manhood: Deconstructing Black Masculinity Through a Lifespan Continuum through Peter Lang Press. His most current manuscript is entitled In the Middle: Leading as a Mid-Level Professional in Student Affairs, which was published by NASPA. He's an active member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, and he lives in Atlanta with a spouse of 32 years, Glenn Williams, and their two sons, Delbert and Delvin. But most importantly, and why we have him on pod today as he is our incoming NASPA Board Chair. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:04]: We hope you enjoy this conversation. Darryl, welcome to SA Voices. Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:02:08]: Thank you so much. I'm glad to be here. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:11]: We are absolutely honored to have you as our season premiere for this season of SA Voices here in spring of 2026, and you are joining us in a long and illustrious line of NASPA Board Chairs-to-be. It's one of our favorite episodes to record in the springtime. Last, last year we had Mike Christakis on who is just finishing up his full year as Board Chair. And in just a couple of weeks now, that gavel will be passing your way. So this episode is one where we like to introduce you to the NASPA membership, what you hope that your leadership will bring to the association over the next year, and messages for our NASPA membership. So before we get into all of that, our favorite question to start the show off with is how did you get to your current seat, both at Spelman and at NASPA? Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:02:59]: Well, I got to Spelman. It was a really interesting journey because I was serving on the board of a local charter school. And the guy that we hired as a CEO said, hey, I really want you to meet my mom. And his mom works at Spelman. She's still on my staff at Spelman. And he's, you know, we just, let's go to lunch. And so we went to lunch. And at that time I was AVP Dean of Students at Georgia State University. Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:03:23]: And I was starting to think about, you know, where would I go to be a vice president for student affairs? I have this lunch and at the end of the lunch, my colleague said, "Hey, you should apply at Spelman. We have an opening." And at that time, I said, "Oh, okay, sure, I'll look at it." But, you know, Spelman is an all-women's HBCU in Atlanta. I've not ever worked at an HBCU. I've not worked at a liberal arts college, small college, and definitely an all-women's college. And so I applied. I applied with 6 very wonderful women. Half of them I knew very personally. And then I got the call that I had the job, which totally caught me off guard because it was— was not in the trajectory of where I thought my career was going. Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:04:07]: I had worked— done most of my work at large, larger public institutions, predominantly white institutions. And so I got the job. I have had a tremendous, tremendous experience here. I got to NASPA 30 years ago. I had a dean of students, Dean Curt Kepler, who hired me. I was a student worker, and then he hired me on as a staff. And he said I should go to this thing called a new professional institute. And at that time, NASPA had this nationwide platform, onboarding new professionals, and it was at UGA, and it was so impactful that it led me into a lifelong volunteer commitment with NASPA, and it's been extremely rewarding, and I've, I've just done so many things, have so many opportunities, have an upcoming book in the middle, co-edited with Gigi Segubin and Spencer Platt, that'll be coming out in the spring. Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:04:57]: So there's so many wonderful opportunities to NASPA, so I've just been really blessed professionally and in my volunteer activities. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:04]: What have you done in NASPA in terms of volunteerism, leadership, contribution before deciding to run for board chair? Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:05:12]: So I had a wonderful opportunity from one of, one of my colleagues, Danita Brown-Young. And Danita, she called me, she said, hey, I think I want you to be my member at large, and I want you to focus on how can NASPA better support HBCUs. And so I joined the board. We did surveys, like some really great work around that, but that really gave me gave me some great insight into how NASPA runs as an organization, the work that it does, the commitments that it makes, and, you know, kind of the engine in the car. And so that was very powerful for me to be able to have that experience as a member board chair. Prior to that, and this was really a great experience for me, I had joined the NASPA Foundation Board, and those two in tandem have been really helpful to help me understand not just in NASPA, but how organizations run, how nonprofits run, how boards run, the decisions that have to be made. And so it's just been a wonderful experience. And outside of presenting and doing some of the other stuff, those have been the most significant governance opportunities that I've had at NASPA. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:06:19]: And now let's think about what is ahead. So again, in just a couple of weeks here, we'll be seeing you in Kansas City. The board will be convening, the membership will be convening for our annual learning opportunity at conference. What are you thinking about going into this transition? Dr. Darryl Holloman [00:06:35]: So, you know, we are in such turmoil right now in higher ed. You know, we followed the pandemic. It was

44 min
FEB 5

Kicking Off Season 14: NASPA's Future in Focus

Welcome to Season 14 of "Student Affairs Voices from the Field," the essential podcast for higher education professionals eager to connect, learn, and grow! Hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis, this season dives deeper into the evolving value of student affairs, exploring both the challenges and opportunities shaping our profession right now. Right from the start, Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis highlight what's in store: an impressive lineup of guests from across student affairs, "mini grand" opportunities at the NASPA annual conference, updates on strategic planning, and in-depth conversations about how NASPA is moving forward as an organization. If you want to stay in the loop on what's really happening in the field—and hear voices from every corner—this is the podcast to keep on your playlist. Excitingly, the season kicks off with Dr. Darryl Holloman, the incoming NASPA Board Chair, who will discuss his inspiring "North Star Project" and vision for 2026-27. As Dr. Jill Creighton notes, this season is "quite a bit more NASPA as an organizational focus than we've had in [the past]," all while maintaining those meaningful interviews with practitioners you know and love. Longtime listeners will appreciate that the beloved theme—"the value of student affairs"—continues, now for the third time, as it transitions from fall to spring, building momentum and relevance as the profession evolves. Whether you're tuning in for insightful strategy, conference updates, or authentic practitioner stories, you'll find inspiration and practical takeaways in every episode. And if you're heading to the NASPA Annual Conference in Kansas City, don't miss your chance to share your voice—Dr. Jill Creighton and Dr. Christopher Lewis will be on-site collecting mini-interviews! Join the conversation. Subscribe, listen, and become part of a passionate community shaping the future of student affairs. [Student Affairs Voices from the Field] is where your story matters—tune in and be heard! 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. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:07]: Seasoned experts brought to you by naspa. We curate free and accessible professional development. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:12]: For higher education professionals wherever you happen to be. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:15]: This is season 14, continuing our conversation. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:18]: On the value of Student Affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton. Sheher hers your Essay Voices from the Field Host Happy February, Chris Happy February. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:29]: Glad to be back in season 14. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:31]: It's 2026. We are just a couple of days from Super Bowl Sunday. As we're chatting today, I have a lifelong Seahawks fan, so it's hopefully going to be better matchup than the last time the Seahawks and the Patriots were in the super bowl together, but that remains to be seen. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:46]: You never know. And I think the Seahawks have a good chance because they have a good. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:51]: Team this year, knock on all sorts of wood. But here we are recording because we're really ready to talk about season 14. Season 14 is coming at you starting next Thursday, the 12th of February. Chris, what do we have in store for season 14? Wow. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:07]: We've got an amazing lineup of individuals from across the profession and we've got a number of really exciting things that we're gonna be talking about in regards to what's been happening in naspa. There's some specific conversations that we're gonna be having about strategic planning and some specific work group NASPA's been doing to really look at a number of different areas in the profession. We are going to be speaking with a number of different people at the conference this year and being able to bring their voices to all of you as well. There's some mini grand opportunities. There's a lot going on. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:41]: We're also kicking off our season with Dr. Darrell Holloman, who is the incoming NASPA Board Chair. We always love to feature the NASPA Board Chair as we head into our spring semesters. Can learn from Darrell on what he is hoping to do in his tenure as Board chair. Just a brief he's got a direction for us called the North Star Project, and I think you'll really enjoy listening to where the association is hoping to go in the 2627 year. I can't believe we're already saying 2627. I know we just started 2026, but we've also got a lot of things coming around in terms of how NASPA'S moving into the future. We've got our second year under Dr. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:16]: Parnell and her leadership as president, and I think NASPA's really starting to move and shake in some really interesting ways. So our season ahead is actually quite a bit more NASPA as an organizational focus than we've had in. But also we're gonna keep bringing you those rich dialogues with individual practitioners as we go along as well. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:02:34]: I'm really looking forward to this season. It should be an amazing season and I guess I'll put out a last call that, as we've said in the past, that if you have people that you wanna hear from in the future, send us an email savoicesaspa.org we would love to hear from you. We always love hearing from our listeners to be able to hear more about what you like, what you want more of, and to gain some perspective. So talk back to us. We'd love to hear more from you. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:59]: We have a colleague who hosts a different higher ed podcast and she liked to say talk to us, we talk back. So I think that's very applicable here. And we are also only a couple weeks away from Annual Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Like previous years, Chris and I will be at the Annual conference collecting small interviews and hoping to feature your voices on questions related to the conference themes. So we will be moving about the conference with our mini recorders and hopefully if you find us, you'd be willing to share your voice. We'd love to feature you. We with all of that in mind, season 14 is going to be bringing another set of episodes that are focused on the value of student affairs. We loved that theme for the fall. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:03:37]: This will be our third time moving forward with a theme from fall to spring and we've heard that is a great format that you all as listeners are enjoying. So we're excited to keep it going forward. Chris, anything else on season 14? Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:03:49]: No, just excited Excited to share this great season with you all and we're looking forward to a continuing with the amazing guests, but also the amazing conversations and continuing the dialogue of moving our profession forward once again. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:03]: We're planning to drop our first episode on Thursday, February 12th right in this feed. The Essay Voices from the Field feed on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, whatever podcast player you might have on your Android phone or you can also find us right on the NASPA website if you just look for Essay Voices or NASPA Podcast. We thank you so much for spending your time with us and we're so happy to bring you another great season. We will see you on the 12th. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:32]: This has been an episode of Essay Voices from the Field brought to you by naspa. This show is made possible because of you, the listeners. We continue to be so grateful that you choose to spend your time with us. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:43]: If you'd like to reach the show. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:44]: You can email us@savoicesaspa.org or find me on LinkedIn by searching for Dr. Jill L. Creighton. We welcome your feedback and your topic and guest suggestions always. We'd love it if you take a moment to tell a colleague about the show and leave us a five star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening now. It really does help other student affairs professionals find the show and helps us to become more visible in the larger podcasting community. This episode was produced and hosted by Dr. Jill Creighton. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:05:12]: That's me, produced and audio engineered by Dr. Chris Lewis. Special thanks to the University of Michigan, Flint for your support as we create this project. Catch you next time.

6 min
JAN 8

Navigating Policy Change: The Impact on Student Affairs in Higher Education

How do public policies shape the work of student affairs professionals in higher education? This week on NASPA's Student Affairs Voices from the Field podcast, we explore just that. This week host Dr. Jill Creighton is joined by two seasoned experts: Diana Ali, Director of Policy Research and Advocacy at NASPA, and Dr. James Tyger, Assistant Vice President for Student Life at the University of Florida and Chair of NASPA's Public Policy Division. This episode dives deep into the complex regulatory and legislative landscape affecting campuses today. Throughout the conversation, Diana and Dr. James Tyger illuminate why public policy should matter—not just for policy "nerds," but for every student affairs professional. Policy changes at state and federal levels often create a ripple effect, touching everything from compliance to student success initiatives. No matter your role, these shifts impact your work and the students you serve. Key themes in the episode include: Major Policy Shifts: The guests detail dramatic changes in the Department of Education, including workforce reductions, agency restructuring, and the transfer of $33 billion in programs to other government agencies. These developments raise concerns about capacity and continuity in supporting states and institutions. Guidance and Compliance: With new Title VI and Title IX guidance, institutions must navigate both federal directives and state laws, especially regarding DEI and free speech. The episode tackles the resulting confusion and litigation, urging professionals to understand the difference between enforceable legal requirements and advisory guidance. The Value of Staying Informed: Listeners learn about the rich resources provided by NASPA's Public Policy Division, like the Policy Resource Hub, real-time legislative tracking, and regular webinars—tools designed to empower professionals to stay current and make informed choices. The hosts stress that while change can be daunting, student affairs remains crucial to supporting students and fostering vibrant campus communities. The takeaway? Tune in to this episode for practical advice on adapting to policy changes, sharing your impact, and remaining grounded in your mission—even as the regulatory landscape evolves. Whether you're navigating new DEI laws, Title IX updates, or simply want to be more proactive in your advocacy, this episode provides clarity, actionable strategies, and a renewed sense of purpose. Click play and join the conversation—your students' success depends on it! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:02]: 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 pros wherever you happen to be. This is season 13 on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton. She her hers your essay voices from the Field host Today on Essay Voices, we're bringing you a public policy conversation with two of our leaders from the Public Policy Division here at naspa. Our first guest is Diana Ali, who is currently the Director of Policy Research and Advocacy at naspa. Diana provides timely analysis of emerging policy issues at state and federal levels, creates tools for student affairs professionals to understand and respond to these issues, and organizes and supports NASPA advocacy and civic engagement efforts. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:52]: Since moving to the area, Diana has been a non profit advocate and is currently a mental health group facility in the Chicagoland community. She served as an AmeriCorps volunteer for two years and graduated with a Master's in Social Work and a Master's in Public Policy from the University of Chicago. Our Second guest is Dr. James Tyger, JD, who is the Assistant Vice President for Student Life at the University of Florida. With over 10 years of experience in Student Affairs, James is passionate about creating inclusive and supportive campus communities that empower students to thrive. Currently serving in the AVP role for Student Life at uf, James oversees the Student Engagement Team made up of the Offices of Campus Engagement, Community and Belonging, Sorority and Fraternity Life, and Student Legal Services. He's a proud double gator, having earned both a Ph.D. in higher education administration and a J.D. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:37]: from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. He also holds a Master of Education from Vanderbilt University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management from Virginia Tech. In addition to his role at uf, James is currently the Director for the Public Policy Division here at naspa, as well as serving on the Virginia Tech Student Affairs Advisory Council. Welcome to the podcast, James. Dr. James Tyger [00:01:58]: How are we doing? Dr. Jill Creighton [00:01:58]: And hello Diana. Glad to have you. Diana Ali [00:02:00]: Hey everyone. Happy to be here. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:02]: This is our Public Policy episode as we're talking about the value of student affairs. We thought it was really important to continue to include that policy perspective in the student affairs conversation because there's so many shifts happening right now. We've done a specialty episode earlier this season on the OB3 impacts on federal financial aid for undergraduate and graduate students, but today I'm excited to bring you our current Chair of the NASPA Public Policy Division as well as our Director of Policy Advocacy and Research so that we can have a more broad based discussion about what's going on in the policy world affecting U.S. american higher education, and possibly by extension, other higher education industries across the world. So before we get into all of that though, we love to ask the question, how did you get to your current seat? Dr. James Tyger [00:02:51]: Great question. Thanks for asking. I actually had an opportunity to get involved with NASPA Region 3. And so for over four years, I served as the Region 3 representative on the Public Policy Division and Region 3, of course, across the Southeast. So a lot of areas to reflect on in the public policy space. So really enjoyed that opportunity and to get to know folks and then eventually had the ability to move up and be the chair for the Public Policy Division for all of naspa. Diana Ali [00:03:17]: Yeah, and I got a role at Naspa going on 10 years ago now when I was coming right out of grad school and I really wanted to get involved in the world of higher education. I hadn't worked in that landscape before. My background was more in community based work. But it was really interesting to me because the world of student affairs, I think combines issues related to social work, which is a background that I have, and also issues related to student success and wellbeing, which are both important to me. So ever since I've kind of like grown within the organization. NASPA is a really great organization for being able to like, pursue your interests and do what you like. And so my portfolio has really grown since I started. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:02]: Both of you have been involved with the Public Policy Division for many, many years now. That's how we all connected in the first place. And I'd love for you all to be able to share with our NASPA listeners, what is the difference between a division and a knowledge community? And what is the PPD all about? Diana Ali [00:04:18]: So the difference between our divisions and our knowledge communities. And this has changed over the years, but one of the key differences is that our division chairs, that's James, has a seat on our NASPA board. So James has a say at our spring and winter board meetings. And that's a really important role. The caseies are obviously really important as well, but since we have so many of them, these are knowledge communities. So like subject matter experts in a certain area have much broader lens of what's going on within the association. And so there aren't a ton of differences between these groups. But I would say that representation on the board is a big one. Diana Ali [00:05:07]: Though the Casey's do have representation on the board as well, just not every Casey director is represented. Dr. James Tyger [00:05:14]: Yeah, and I think what I would Add to that, I think if we I had the opportunity to be the student government knowledge community co chair a few years back, and I think each of the knowledge communities have such a great opportunity to help build community. But when I think about the role of a division, it's more broad across the association, as opposed to many of our knowledge communities provide again, very specific communities, goals and different things that we're advocating for within the association. And so I think for the Public Policy Division more broadly, it's thinking through the entire state of our public policy arena. And so when we talk about what the PPD does, you know, we have representatives from each of the regions. We have, you know, folks that are both at large and also focused on, you know, let's say faculty or our small colleges as well, and thinking through the different impacts of policy across each of those areas. And so at some of the things that we're doing that I will share, you know, we're hoping to see folks at the annual conference. We'll have some different programmatic pieces, whether it be our town hall, our sponsors, sessions, opportunities just to get involved and hear more about what's going on across again, the state of higher education within the US and international. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:06:15]: So policy precon coming up, too. Dr. James Tyger [00:06:17]: Yes. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:06:17]: All right, so let's dig into it. When we think about the Public Policy Division, what are we focusing on ri

48 min
JAN 1

From Student Affairs to College President: Dr. Joshua Moon Johnson's Journey

On the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, Dr. Jill Creighton sits down with Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson, the trailblazing President of Connecticut State Community College (Manchester, Middlesex, and Asnuntuck), for an inspiring conversation that's sure to resonate with higher education professionals everywhere. From Student Affairs to the Presidency Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson shares an authentic, winding journey to leadership that began much like many in student affairs: as an "overly involved" undergraduate seeking belonging. Coming from a multiracial, first-generation background, student affairs became a hub for discovery, community, and professional love—and ultimately, a lifelong calling. What's striking is Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson's deep commitment to social justice, equity, and access, themes that have been woven throughout his career—across four-year research universities and community colleges alike. Why Community Colleges Matter A central theme is the vital, often under-recognized, role of community colleges. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson highlights their generational impact: "We're not just transforming one life, but generations to come." Community colleges are bastions of second chances—for veterans, ESL learners, first-generation students, parents, and non-traditional learners. The conversation delves into how these institutions can be life-changing, especially for historically marginalized populations. Student Affairs: The Essential Connector If you've ever grappled with explaining the value of student affairs, this is the episode for you. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson argues the core value lies in fostering a sense of belonging—for both students and staff. Especially at community colleges, student affairs professionals often play generalist roles, bridging academics, crisis response, and holistic support with compassion and ingenuity. The episode explores the complexities presidents face, balancing limited resources, compliance obligations, and the profound desire to advocate for students' needs. Listeners gain rare insights into how institutional leaders make tough decisions, and how student affairs voices can drive real change. Advocacy, Research, and Representation A significant part of the episode covers Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson's research and writing around marginalized identities. His work brings visibility to queer and trans students, students of color—and pushes for actionable change in the face of societal headwinds. Why Listen? Whether you're an aspiring leader, a student affairs professional, or someone passionate about equity in education, this episode offers valuable wisdom, empathy, and actionable advice. Hear first-hand how Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson blends identity, experience, and advocacy to shape the future of higher ed. Tune in and be inspired—your student affairs journey will thank you! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:02]: 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 pros wherever you happen to be. This is season 13 on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton, she her hers your Essay Voices from the Field host here on Essay Voices. It's always such a pleasure for us to welcome anyone who's serving in a college or university president role, especially when they've come up through student affairs pathways. So today it's our Honor to welcome Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson Johnson, he or they who is a seasoned educational administrator, best selling author, social justice educator and advocate who has dedicated his career and life to education reform, LGBTQ advocacy, economic justice and racial justice. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:50]: Joshua serves as the President at Connecticut State Community College, Manchester, Middlesex and Asnuntuck. He previously served as Provost in and Vice President of Academic affairs at West Valley College, Vice President of Student Services at the College of San Mateo, Dean of Equity and Student Services at American River College, Assistant Dean and Director of the Multicultural center at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and the Director of the LGBTQ Student center and Women's center at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He's also served in adjunct faculty roles at Binghamton University, the University of Wisconsin Madison, Semester at sea, CSU Long Beach, San Diego State University, USC and Concordia University, Portland. His social justice work has led him to become a best selling author with his book Be Beyond Surviving From Religious Oppression to Queer Activism, which was also ranked as number three on Book Authority's 20 Best Selling LGBTQ Activism Books of All Time. Joshua also published Authentic Leadership, Queer People of Color in Higher Education, and Queer Trans Advocacy in the Community College. Joshua received a doctoral degree in Adult and Higher Education and LGBT Studies from Northern Illinois University, a Master's in Social Sciences focused on student affairs and Diversity from Binghamton University, a Master's in Marketing from the University of Alabama, and a Bachelor's in Business from the University of Alabama. Joshua served on the Board of Directors for the association of California Community College Administrators, or acca, and was the founding Chair of the Equity and Social Justice Committee. Joshua previously served as the VP for the Board of the Sacramento LGBT Center. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:16]: NASPA has been a special place for Joshua and he previously served as the Chair of the Multiracial Knowledge Community, a Regional Representative for the Asian Pacific Islander Knowledge Community, Member at large for the International Education Knowledge Community, and as an Editor for the Journal of College and Character, and if you'd like to learn more about Joshua you, you can find their website@joshuaMoon-Johnsonjohnson.com Joshua welcome to Essay Voices. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson [00:02:38]: So happy to be here, Jill. Thanks for having me. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:02:41]: It's a rare treat that we get to have a president on the show, especially a president who's come through the pathways of student affairs like your journey has taken you. And we love to always start our episodes by asking our guests, how did you get to your current seat? Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson [00:02:54]: I don't even know if I ever thought, oh, I want to be a college president or anything like that. I started out as one of those, of course, like overly involved young student affairs students who kind of never, never left. I think, you know, for me, as a first one in my family to go off to university, I was terrified. And the thing that I do when I'm terrified, I overly prepare. And part of that was doing everything I could on campus because I was so afraid I wouldn't know what to do or how to get along. And finding social spaces within student affairs clubs and employment and extracurriculars and leadership really helped me find who I was and find purpose and help other young students. And then that kind of continued. And so most of my career has been in student affairs and higher education. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson [00:03:37]: I took a one year gap and worked in fashion marketing and quickly thought, hmm, I think higher ed's for me. And I spent probably the first almost 15 years at large, mostly research one universities, and then made the pivot to community college as that aligned a little bit easier for me to do equity social justice work in the ways that were meaningful to me and with larger populations who are more likely to be at a community college than a highly selective universities. I made that pivot, I think it was about eight years ago now and have had the opportunity to do a couple of student affairs like a dean of student services and equity and then a vice president of student affairs. And then I got pulled over to the provost side and was able to kind of dig a little deeper into academic affairs and this opportunity came up where I get to lead three community college campuses in Connecticut. I'm four months in and so far it's everything I hoped it would be. So it's been exciting so far. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:04:32]: Well, that's incredible to be a new president as well, coming out from the idea space as well as from the student affairs space. Joshua, you mentioned that community college has really spoke to you and your mission in terms of the students you could serve and the impact that you could have. What's different in that community college space from that highly selective four year. That really drew you that way. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson [00:04:51]: Yeah. I mean, and I'm not sure I don't know your background, Jill, like, if you ever did anything with community college. But I did not in most ways. So my family, I'm the youngest of five kids. My dad's the white military veteran. My mom's an immigrant from South Korea. And I never really realized it, but in some way, everybody in my family engaged in community college at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College on the, you know, Gulfport, Biloxi, Mississippi. My dad as a veteran coming back in the early 70s. Dr. Joshua Moon-Johnson [00:05:21]: My mom is an ESL student. And then each of my siblings went to community college. First for me as the youngest, I went off to a university, but I kept. Went back for summers and did community college to save money that I'd work all summer and pay off my tuition in that way too, because I was pretty much on Pell grants, scholarships, full financial aid, and trying to find ways to save money as much as possible. But I never really thought about college as a career after that. I really loved being at a university and specifically the identity development part of being in a kind of core s

54 min

4.7

out of 5

23 Ratings

SA Voices from the Field shares the voices and stories from student affairs professionals from around the world. This podcast provides you with practical advice to help you be the best student affairs practitioner you can be, no matter where you are in your career.

Creator

Dr. Jill Creighton, NASPA
Years Active

2019 - 2026
Episodes

259
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2024
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SA Voices From the Field

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