Here’s the Story: “One or None: Difficult Decisions I Would Make Again”

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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.

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Here’s the Story: “What Everyone Wants To Know: How I Got My Job”

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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.

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Here’s the Story: “Unstoppable Confidence”

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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.

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Here’s the Story: “Roots and Returns”

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.

Here’s the Story: “It Can’t Be About Me”

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While it is hard to think about the "dark place" that COVID holds in our collective heart, we are remiss if we do not acknowledge the great work that was done. Ardell Sanders tells a story about lessons learned and victories won during that tough time.

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Here’s the Story: “Truthfully Honest”

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In these times, being honestly truthful reinforces listening, hearing and holding students. Dr. Palmer shares the necessary value of understanding the difference between honesty and truth.

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Here’s the Story: “When the Tide Turns: Grief, Honor, and the Role of a University”

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Tragedy and loss are inevitable in the career of any Student Affairs professional. In this powerful episode, Dr. R. Bowin Loftin recalls the day he had to deliver heartbreaking news after a sailing tragedy, offering insight into the role of institutions in upholding dignity and healing in the wake of disaster.

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Here’s the Story: “Meeting Gloria, Finding Myself”

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Panelists Heather Shea Dr. Heather Shea is a passionate advocate for fostering critical hope and creating inclusive environments in higher education and student affairs. A past president of ACPA, she brings expertise in equity-centered leadership, student...

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