2026 Conference Schedule

Wednesday November 11 - Friday November 13

Wednesday

8am Wintergreen shuttle begins

11:00am - 11:45am Planning Committee Meeting

11:45am - 12:30pm Welcome Lunch (Planning Committee)

12:00pm - 3:00pm Conference Setup

3:00pm - 6:30pm Conference Registration & Associate Setup

5:00pm - 7:00pm Dinner on your own

7:00pm - 10:00pm Opening Reception & Social

9:45pm Wintergreen shuttle ends

Thursday

8am Wintergreen shuttle begins

7:30am - 10:00am Conference Registration

7:30am - 9:00am Breakfast & Opening Keynote

9:15am - 11:15am Senior Student Affairs & Senior Housing Officers meetings

9:15am - 10:00am Learning Experience Block #1

10:15am - 11:00am Learning Experience Block #2

11:00am - 11:45am Associates Showcase

11:45am - 12pm Lunch **11:45am-12pm will be the early start for Mentors/Mentees. All other attendees should plan to arrive at noon.**

1:00pm - 2:00pm Affinity Spaces

1:30pm - 6:00pm Meditation Space

1:00pm Associates Hall Open

2:00pm - 3:00pm Wellness Break

3:15pm - 4:00pm Learning Experience Block #3

4:00pm - 4:30pm Mentor/Mentee Meetup #2

4:30pm Associates’ Happy Hour and Raffles

5:30pm - 6:15pm Organization Meetings (VACUHO, NASPA-VA, VACPA)

6:30pm Banquet

6:45pm - 7:30pm Welcome Announcement of New Officers & Awards

7:45pm - 9:30pm Night two social

9:45pm Wintergreen shuttle ends

Friday

7:30am Terrace Cafe opens

8am Wintergreen shuttle begins

8:00am - 9:00am Wintergreen recommended check out

7:30am - 9:30am Juice service

8:00am - 9:00am Organization Leadership Meetings

9:00am - 10:00am Functional Roundtables

9:15am - 11:00am Graduate Student Symposium

9:15am - 12:00pm Meditation Space

10:15am - 11:00am Learning Experience Block #4

11:15am - 12:00pm Learning Experience Block #5

12:15pm - 1:30pm Send-Off Lunch

1:30pm - 2:00pm Conference Breakdown

  • Thursday, November 12th

Learning Experience Block #1

Thursday 9:15am - 10:00am

  • Presented by: Amy Sine, Ed.D

    Location: Windsong

    Abstract: First-generation commuter students are a growing population in higher education, yet their experiences are often overlooked within traditional student engagement and support models. These students frequently balance academic responsibilities alongside work, family obligations, financial pressures, and limited time on campus, creating unique challenges in developing a sense of belonging and connection.

    Drawing from original qualitative research on the transitional experiences of first- generation commuter students, this session explores the factors that influence their success, persistence, and engagement. Participants will gain insight into the lived experiences of these students, including their navigation of academic expectations, identity development, support systems, and competing responsibilities. Through research findings, student narratives, and practical applications, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to foster belonging, strengthen support systems, and create more inclusive environments that promote student success.

  • Presented by: Charlotte Malacane, Chloe Jones, & Piper Fox

    Location: Upper Crust

    Abstract: Professional opportunities in student affairs do not always begin with a job posting or formal application. They often begin with a conversation, conference, shared interest, or connection that may seem insignificant at the time. This session explores how intentional and authentic networking can help graduate students and professionals discover internships, professional experiences, mentorship, and career opportunities. Presenters will share experiences with NODA and ACUHO-I internships, as well as creating an internship opportunity independently, to demonstrate multiple pathways to professional development. Participants will also explore how a connection at VSSC led the three presenters to build a professional relationship and collaborate on this session. Grounded in Social Capital Theory and Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, participants will reflect on their networks, explore effective networking strategies, and develop an actionable networking goal to implement after the session.

  • Presented by: Steve Grande, Faith Jones, Nicole Contreras, Mandi Gregory, Lyndsey Gilbert

    Location: Piedmont

    Abstract: Student development theories are crucial in guiding our work with individual students, designing programs, and responding institutionally. But how do we use those theories when faced with a dilemma where a quick decision is needed? And what if the choices seem limited or the options constrain our ability to act in a way consistent with our values and professional guidelines?

    This session proposes that student development theories hold tremendous value, if we know how to use them. Using the Ethical Reasoning in Action (ERiA) model, we can move from what theory helps us understand to a well-reasoned plan of action. While theory is insightful, when combined with the ERiA model we can move toward taking evidenced-based action consistent with our values.

    This session will share the ERiA model and provide opportunities to practice it with current student affairs ethical dilemmas.

  • Presented by: Joey Hamel, Katelyn Kenney

    Location: Crawford

    Abstract: With budget constraints, staffing limitations, and shifting policies, universities are having to do more with less while advancing resources for student success. By developing strong relationships across campus, higher education professionals can strategically create opportunities that maximize institutional impact. This session draws on theories that highlight the impact of the college environment and ecological system on student outcomes to emphasize the need for cross-campus collaboration to effectively support student access and retention. Attendees will explore the “why” behind collaborative practice and leave with tangible strategies for building successful partnerships in their roles and institutions.

Thursday 9:15am - 10:00am

Senior Student Affairs Officers Meeting

50th Breezeway Room - Board Room

Senior Housing Officers Meeting

Summit Room - Board Room

Learning Experience Block #2

Thursday 10:15am - 11:00am

  • Presented by: Danny Lee

    Location: Windsong

    Abstract: Living-learning communities thrive when academic and student affairs partners share responsibility for students’ residential learning. This session explores William & Mary journey to rebuild faculty relationships supporting living-learning communities through intentional listening, a faculty and staff roundtable, shared professional development, and collaborative planning. The launch of a new Democracy Scholars community provides a case study of partnership in practice. Participants will examine their own campus partnerships and identify strategies for moving relationships from transactional engagement toward collaborative ownership of residential learning.

  • Presented by: Bailey Bowers, Zak Chandler & Jackie Khawand Ward

    Location: Upper Crust

    Abstract: Twenty open cases do not necessarily equal twenty open cases. Their demands on staff can vary dramatically. This session introduces a Case Acuity & Complexity Measure (CACM) that combines case type acuity, staff time, and urgency to quantify workload beyond traditional caseload counts. Participants will explore how one student support office uses complexity data to triage cases, evaluate workload, and translate case-level data into decisions about staffing and organizational structure.

  • Presented by: Susie Bruce, Kristen Morris

    Location: Piedmont

    Abstract: This program explores creative strategies for involving students in hazing and substance misuse prevention efforts, developing messages that resonate, and applying evidence-informed strategies. We'll discuss practical tools to strengthen student involvement in education efforts, bystander intervention, and policy development. Be prepared to share your success and challenges!

  • Presented by: Demarcus Merritt, Sr., Dr. Yolanda Barbier Gibson

    Location: Crawford

    Abstract: How do we prepare people to navigate hard things without making people hard?

    Higher education is navigating increasingly complex student needs alongside a professional landscape shaped by intergenerational differences, evolving expectations, heightened anxiety and risk awareness, and continuing impacts of COVID-era isolation, remote learning, and work. Rather than concluding that today’s students and emerging professionals are simply “less resilient,” or too different, we ask must a more important question: What has changed about the environments in which resilience, professional judgement, relationships, and professional identity are developed?

    The interactive session examines resilience and professional development as matters of shared responsibility. Leaders cannot rely on “you should already know this” when expectations have not been communicated, modeled, coached, or practiced. Likewise, emerging professionals cannot expect leadership to carry sole responsibility for their continued growth and knowledge to skill formation.

    We will individually and collectively work to reframe resilience as a human-centered practice that must be exercised, modeled, and developed. Through People, Policy, Practice, Shared Responsibility, and Preparation, participants will explore humanizing people, inspecting policy, taking inventory of practice, and strengthening professional discernment. Grounded in the premise that policy is a counterpart, not a crutch, we examine shared responsibility for developing professionals capable of navigating ambiguity, accountability, discomfort, risk, mistakes, recovery, and growth while asking whether our institutions are equally willing to adapt.

Associates Showcase

Thursday 11:00am - 11:45am

Take some time to connect with our Associates who play a big part in the success of our institutions!

Commonwealth Ballroom

Learning Experience Block #3

Thursday 3:15pm - 4:00pm

  • Presented by: Cassie McGhee

    Location: Windsong

    Abstract: Engaging student leaders from across campus can often feel like an uphill climb. How do we help campus stakeholders, including students themselves, buy into student leader development? What can we accomplish when we have limited time, effort, and resources to build professional skills? This session explores the second annual Student Leader Summit at Bon Secours Richmond Higher Education Institutions and the lessons learned from connecting student leaders as we work to close the skills gap between the classroom and clinical practice.

  • Presented by: Tricia S. Smith, Stephanie Hovsepian

    Location: Upper Crust

    Abstract: This interactive panel brings together leaders who are navigating interim appointments to share candid insights about stepping into unexpected opportunities and leading through transition. Participants will hear three distinct leadership journeys, explore how self-awareness and self-reflection can help manage an interim role, and considerations for setting priorities, managing pace, and navigating relationships and expectations.

    Participants will develop a practical list of questions and considerations to guide future career opportunities and learn how to maximize any leadership experience as a valuable learning opportunity. For those considering your journey and potential impact in higher education, this session offers actionable insights for navigating what comes next.

  • Presented by: Justin Tarbell, Robin LaHaye; Cait Burns

    Location: Piedmont

    Abstract: When asking university student services professionals what their main responsibilities are, replies such as “creating engaging programs”, “finding ways to support students’ mental health”, “to enhance the co-curricular experience”, “to ensure they have a safe and comfortable place to live”, etc. Typically, the general student affairs practitioner may not say career readiness. However, it is vitally important that student services professionals are helping to support students in their career development to find meaningful employment post college. Come hear from both career services and non-career services professionals about why career readiness is important (utilizing NACE) and how they have been successful in making career readiness prevalent not just in career advising appointments.

  • Presented by: Zak Chandler, Carly Chandler

    Location: Crawford

    Abstract: Student affairs supervisors regularly face a dilemma: when a staff member asks, “What should I do?” providing an answer may solve the immediate problem, but consistently doing so can limit opportunities to develop judgment, confidence, and autonomy.

    This interactive session explores coaching as a practical approach to supervising and developing student and professional staff. Drawing on self-authorship, related developmental theories, and conflict-coaching practices, presenters will examine how supervisors can shift from supplying answers toward helping staff reflect, identify needs and interests, evaluate options, and determine next steps.

    Participants will practice intentional questioning, reflective listening, needs and interests exploration, and sphere-of-control reframing through realistic supervisory scenarios. Attendees will consider a central question: when should supervisors coach, provide direction, or intervene? Participants will leave with a practical framework for integrating coaching into everyday supervision while maintaining appropriate accountability, clarity, support, and expectations for staff performance and continued professional growth.

Membership Meetings

Thursday 5:30pm - 6:15pm

  • Upper Crust

  • Crawford

  • Windsong

  • Friday, November 13th

Organization Leadership Meetings

Friday 8:00am - 9:00am

  • Shenandoah

  • No meeting scheduled.

  • Rockfish

Functional Roundtables

Friday 9:00am - 10:00am

  • Windsong

  • Upper Crust

  • Piedmont

  • Crawford

Graduate Student Symposium

Friday 9:15am - 11:00am

  • Presenter: Chloe Jones

    Abstract: Graduate students in student affairs are often encouraged to “find their professional home,” yet the pathway to doing so can feel unclear. With countless functional areas, professional associations, conferences, and involvement opportunities available, many emerging professionals struggle to determine where they fit within the field and how to intentionally navigate their career journey. This interactive session is designed specifically for graduate students seeking to explore their professional identity and career trajectory. Through guided reflection and discussion, participants will examine their interests, values, and goals while learning how professional associations can serve as gateways to networking, mentorship, leadership development, and career exploration. Attendees will be introduced to opportunities for involvement within a variety of student affairs organizations and leave with a personalized plan for engaging in the profession, building meaningful connections, and taking the next steps toward finding their professional home.

Learning Experience Block #4

Friday 10:15am - 11:00am

  • Presenter: Donovan Smith

    Location: Windsong

    Abstract: Effective supervision is more than giving direction or providing feedback. It is about building relationships, creating trust, and helping the people we supervise feel supported and valued. The 3 C’s of Relational Supervision: Connect, Coach, Celebrate provides a practical framework for higher education professionals to think differently about how they supervise and support their teams. Informed by Leader–Member Exchange Theory and Self-Determination Theory, this session will explore how connection helps build trust, coaching creates opportunities for growth, and recognition reinforces the behaviors and contributions we want to see. Participants will have opportunities to reflect on their own supervisory practices, work through realistic scenarios, and consider how the 3 C’s can be applied across different Student Affairs settings. Participants will leave with practical strategies they can take back and use with their teams.

  • Presenter: Nancy Loosle, Bruce Hayden

    Location: Upper Crust

    Abstract: Higher education professionals are increasingly navigating complex situations involving students, employees, families, and community members whose behaviors may raise concerns about safety, well-being, or the potential for harm. Knowing when a behavior is simply concerning, when it requires further assessment, and when it may represent a potential threat can be challenging—particularly when information is incomplete and multiple departments are involved.

    This session will provide participants with practical information for understanding risk assessment in higher education. Participants will explore the differences between the types of behaviors of concern and will be provided with best practices in addressing these concerns.

  • Presenter: Carly Chandler

    Location: Piedmont

    Abstract: Student affairs professionals strive to support students as individuals, but many of our everyday practices are designed around a “typical” student and adjusted only after someone encounters a barrier or asks for support. What if accessibility and flexibility were built in from the beginning? This interactive session introduces Universal Design (UD) as a proactive framework for creating more inclusive student experiences beyond physical accessibility and formal accommodations. Participants will explore how UD principles can inform advising, student employee supervision, communication, programming, training, and other student-facing practices. Through reflection and a collaborative redesign activity, attendees will identify barriers embedded in common practices and develop strategies for increasing access while maintaining clear expectations and individualized support. Participants will leave with practical tools for designing student support that anticipates differences rather than waiting for students to ask.

  • Presenter: Bailey Bowers, Jared Crist; Justin Tarbell; Ashley Horn

    Location: Crawford

    Abstract: Getting involved in a professional organization can often feel daunting and riddled with barriers. However, there is always a need for innovative and fresh ideas, and organizations are always looking for new folx to engage in leadership positions! These presenters have found success in attaining leadership roles and are excited about sharing these experiences with you and helping you take that next step. This session will combine lessons learned as well as an opportunity to engage with the panel and ask questions that you have surrounding getting involved in leadership roles. The panel will consist of leaders from NASPA-VA, VACPA, VACUHO, and VSSC.

Learning Experience Block #5

Friday 11:15am - 12:00pm

  • Presenter: Christian Barber

    Location: Windsong

    Abstract: High occupancy. Staffing pressures. Affordability concerns. AI. Evolving student expectations. Housing and residence life teams are navigating growing complexity while being asked to play an increasingly important role in student success and the broader campus experience.

    But how do the challenges facing your institution compare with those of your peers, and what can student affairs professionals learn from the trends shaping campus housing?

    This interactive session explores key findings from the 2026 State of the Student Housing Industry Report, featuring insights from more than 400 housing professionals representing 363 institutions worldwide. Rather than simply presenting statistics, we’ll examine what the data means for colleges and universities in Virginia and discuss how institutions are responding to some of higher education’s most pressing challenges.

    Through audience polling, moderated discussion, and peer exchange, participants will explore trends related to occupancy and demand, staffing and resources, affordability, AI and emerging technology, student wellbeing and success, and cross-campus collaboration. Attendees will have opportunities to benchmark their own experiences against industry data, learn from colleagues, and identify practical ideas they can bring back to their institutions.

    Whether you work directly in housing or elsewhere in student affairs, this session will offer a data-informed look at how the residential experience is changing, and what those changes can tell us about the future of supporting students.

  • Presenter: Mannie Brown, Dahlia Ashford

    Location: Upper Crust

    Abstract: Higher ed is changing fast, and DEI offices are facing a lot of pushback. How do we adapt our day-to-day work while still supporting student needs? This session details the restructuring and execution of the shift from a survivor-centric gender resource center (The Not Just Women’s Center) to BRIDGES—an interpersonal, skill-based, student-facing model centered on relational agency, violence prevention, and healthy boundaries.

    Participants will examine how framing student support through an interpersonal wellness lens gained rapid administrative approval while safeguarding institutional advocacy work. Additionally, we dissect the restructured student leadership architecture that powers this model. By scaffolding roles into specialized pathways, institutions can build clear growth pipelines, embed core equity competencies, and scale outreach effectively. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to audit their operational frameworks, pitch structural changes to leadership, and design multi-tiered student project management networks on their own campuses.

  • Presenter: Zak Chandler

    Location: Piedmont

    Abstract: Interpersonal conflict is a normal part of the student experience, yet higher education often situates conflict resolution within conduct or accountability offices. This placement can unintentionally frame conflict through policy, harm, and behavioral intervention even when no policy violation has occurred. This interactive session challenges participants to consider conflict as a student well-being and developmental concern and explores an alternative model: voluntary conflict support housed within non-clinical case management or care offices. Drawing on research connecting interpersonal conflict with stress, belonging, sleep, and well-being, presenters will examine how opt-in conflict coaching can fill the gap between “handle it yourself” and formal institutional intervention. Participants will explore student agency, distinctions among coaching, restorative practices, mediation, and accountability, and when formal processes remain necessary. Through discussion and case scenarios, attendees will leave with a practical framework for evaluating where conflict support belongs within their own institutional structures and broader student-support ecosystems today.

  • Presenter: Samuel West

    Location: Crawford

    Abstract: To carry out student affairs activities effectively it is necessary to have flexible and scalable tools; yet many departments still depend on outdated spreadsheets and manual methods in order to carry out their work. This session shows how student affairs departments can move from using simple spreadsheets to adopting automated project management systems through the use of Smartsheet, a full-featured project management platform. The attendees will look at the main features of the platform such as forms, reports, dashboards, and automated workflows in order to overcome operational bottlenecks. Drawing on real-life examples from Residential Life and Housing at VCU, the session will offer practical advice for creating scalable workflows and for improving team productivity. By the end of the session, the participants will be in a position to push for the introduction of Smartsheet and to design customized solutions for their own areas.