Current Campus Context: Shutdowns and Showdowns in Higher Ed

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As the federal government shutdown continues, colleges and universities are grappling with its immediate effects on students and operations. Meanwhile, the proposed “Compact for Academic Excellence” is sparking debate about federal influence over campus policies and values. This episode explores how funding, freedom, and inclusion intersect in today’s political climate—and how student affairs professionals are helping students and institutions navigate these challenges.

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Current Campus Context: Making Sense of the Signals Amid the Noise

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In this September episode of Current Campus Context, host Heather Shea welcomes back Dr. Crystal Garcia and Dr. Brendan Cantwell for a timely conversation on the state of higher education. The discussion begins with reintroductions and updates on their current research projects, then turns to how scholars and practitioners can separate meaningful policy “signals” from distracting “noise” in today’s overwhelming news cycle. Together, they highlight underreported developments from the past month, consider what gives them hope as the academic year unfolds, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities shaping the months ahead — from looming federal deadlines to long-term structural shifts in higher education.

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Advancing Equity for First-Gen Students Through Data Transparency

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In this episode of Student Affairs Now, Drs. Amy Goodburn, Stephanie Bannister, and Mary Fugate join Heather Shea for conversation about advancing equity for first-generation college students through data transparency. Together, they explore how definitions shape data collection, the role of national datasets, and how institutions are using data to inform practice. The discussion also highlights the risks of data loss and the importance of collaboration in advocating for first-gen student success.

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Supervising with Strengths: Leading with Intention & Humanity

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Anne Brackett and Alicia Wojciuch, two dynamic leaders who’ve helped hundreds of student affairs professionals, join Heather Shea to explore how strengths-based approaches can transform the way we supervise and lead. Whether you’re new to CliftonStrengths or know your top five by heart, you’ll leave with practical strategies, fresh insights, and a renewed perspective on leading with intention and humanity. 

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Reciprocity Required: Relationships Between Black and White Women in Higher Education

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Authentic relationships between Black and white women in higher education are often difficult to cultivate—made more so by the persistent realities of misogynoir and the role white women can play in perpetuating harm. In this powerful episode, co-hosted by Heather Shea and Raechele Pope, we’re joined by Drs. Christina Holmgren, Leah Fulton, and Jayne Sommers to explore the preliminary findings of their ongoing research with Black women in student affairs. Together, they share stories, insights, and a new model for building reciprocal, accountable relationships that move us beyond performative allyship and toward real connection and change.

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100 Days In: Power, Policy, and Pushback in Higher Education

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In this episode (recorded on May 1), Dr. OiYan Poon and Dr. Crystal Garcia join Dr. Heather Shea to reflect on the first 100 days of the current administration and what they reveal about its priorities and governing approach.

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NIH Ultimatum, Accreditation Power Grab, & Tax Threats

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In this episode, host Heather Shea is joined by Dr. Brendan Cantwell and Dr. Demetri Morgan to break down a wave of federal actions reshaping higher education. From the NIH’s ultimatum on DEI to a new executive order on accreditation—and threats to university tax-exempt status—they explore what these moves mean for institutional governance, research integrity, and academic freedom.

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I work(ed) at the Department of Education.

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In this episode of Student Affairs NOW, host Heather Shea is joined by Dr. Jason Cottrell, a longtime career employee at the U.S. Department of Education who was among the 1,300 staff members recently laid off. Jason shares insights into the role of the Department, how federal agencies navigate transitions between administrations, and what these layoffs mean for education policy. He also reflects on his own journey from higher education into federal service—and what’s next as he returns to the field of student affairs.

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Governance, Higher Ed Resistance, & Revoking Student Visas

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Dr. Demetri Morgan and Dr. Felecia Commodore join host Heather Shea to explore the escalating pressures facing higher education, including the lack of board engagement in defending institutional autonomy, rising federal influence, and the unjust revocation of student visas.

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