Student Affairs NOW

W. Scott Lewis recounts a moment as a Vice President for Student Affairs when his role unexpectedly required hostage negotiation skills to support a student in crisis. Surrounded by FBI agents and campus police, Scott’s decisions were risky, maybe a little lucky, and deeply human—yet ones he’d make again in service to his students. Scott tells this story masterfully, balancing the real tension with his legendary sense of humor, underscoring the weight of leadership in Student Affairs.

No matter where he goes, the constant question is raised, "How did you get that job?". Finding the perfect higher education adjacent role is a unique and intentional journey. Learn as Paul Brown shares his journey on how he found joy at Roompact.

Join Rev. Dr. Jamie Washington, a leader in social justice training, Becky Martinez, a consultant committed to equity, and Rev. Sam Offer from the Washington Consulting Group as they navigate the complex terrain of DEIB in higher education. They discuss the emotional toll on DEIB professionals, the need for authentic practices amidst political pushback, and the importance of self-care and coalition-building. Their insights highlight the necessity of supportive structures and well-being for those advocating for marginalized voices.

Dr. Todd Zakrajsek shares with us learnings from the science of learning and his newest book, Essentials of the New Science of Learning. He distills cutting-edge research in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and education to help students optimize their learning through many examples and stories. This conversation is helpful for our own learning, helping others learn, and powerful lessons about the value of struggle and even failure.

Cindy Clowner, Dolores Cimini, and Lindsay Mortensen share their insights on the growing issue of gambling among college students. They discuss the evolving landscape driven by technology and highlight the risks of online betting. The experts talk about the necessity of awareness and innovative strategies for prevention and intervention. They emphasize the role of campus professionals in fostering support and addressing the intersection of gambling, mental health, and addiction. Their conversation underscores the importance of collaboration in creating safer environments for students.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Felecia Commodore, an expert on leadership in education, Dr. Brendan Cantwell, who focuses on higher education policy, and Dr. Demetri L. Morgan, specializing in student activism, tackle the pressing issues in higher ed today. They reflect on recent governance changes and the accountability needed for underrepresented communities. The trio delves into funding challenges, political dynamics affecting international students, and evolving student expectations, emphasizing collaboration and dialogue among university leaders.

In a classic "student affairs" moment, a young professional steps up to coach a scrappy women’s club soccer team rather than let their season be canceled. They only scored one point all year—but what they gained in confidence, community, and self-advocacy was a championship of its own.

An experienced student affairs professional reflects on how career “derailments” and “stagnant seasons” turned out to be pivotal to her growth, not signs of failure. In a moving twist, she finds unexpected joy and support from former students—proof that the seeds she planted long ago blossomed right when she needed them most.

Recent changes to college sports are monumental for athletics, athletes, and all of higher education. Shifts in name, image, and likeness (NIL), revenue sharing, unionization, transfer portal, TV money and conference realignment, and more are each having a massive impact and collectively will leave college sports unrecognizable to many and incredibly complex to navigate for all involved. Join four experts as they explain these changes, discuss the implications, and give us an idea of what is ahead for us all.

Dr. Harold Cheatham is a scholar, mentor, Dean, and 56th president of ACPA, and the first African American man to serve in that role. In this conversation, he reflects on the themes of serendipity and intrusive advising throughout his professional journey. He also shares his humility, commitment to service, and getting stuff done.