Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Leadership Corner


One week ago today I was posing for pictures with some of our graduate students after commencement.  A very talented student focused our attention on the camera and instead of saying “cheese” she said “everyone say access!”  I looked at her and she said “ok, everyone say attainment.”

ACPA’s work is all about attainment – and helping students and staff reach their goals and dreams.  This was the focus of the Presidential Symposium held last Friday at Kingsborough Community College (a City University of New York campus) in Brooklyn, New York.  Over 100 leaders from across the region came together to share strategies for student success, identify approaches to enhance the academic affairs/student affairs relationship, and plan tactical approaches to career advancement.  You will hear more about this as we expand on these themes as part of our educational curriculum at the ACPA Convention this March in Las Vegas.

We solidified our roles as the ultimate “back-up” players, as one of our keynote speakers highlighted the unique collaborative and relational talents that student affairs leaders bring to backing up all aspects of the university – from business affairs to alumni relations to (most importantly) our students.  The transformation of higher education holds much opportunity and responsibility for student affairs leaders.

Special thanks go out to Dr. Frank Sanchez, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs for the CUNY System and Dr. Joe Bertolino, President-elect of Lyndon State College for serving as inspirational keynotes, and to Dr. Paulette Dalpes, Dean of Student Affairs at Kingsborough and her team for hosting such a productive day.

ACPA is moving quickly from a strong day of professional development at one of our nation’s largest college and university systems to one of the world’s largest countries as Executive Director Gregory Roberts and I will lead a delegation to China this week hosted by Professor Johnston Huang from Hong Kong Baptist University.  Our work will focus on sharing key aspects of the western student affairs systems including residence hall operation, financial aid, career services and emergency response with colleagues in five different Chinese cities.   Look for updates (and photos!) from me in an upcoming Leadership Corner.

I want to hear from you!  ACPA’s strength is in the wisdom, ideas, and enthusiasm of our members.  Here’s how you can find me:

Follow me on Twitter:  acpaprez
Or call me the old-fashioned way:  520-621-7060
I hope that all is well for you and your students on your campus!

Dr. Keith Humphrey
ACPA President

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