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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From Student Affairs to Alumni Affairs

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In this episode of Student Affairs Now, we're exploring the career shift from student affairs to alumni affairs with three panelists who have made the transition themselves: Josh Leidy, Rachel Clark, and Jessica Lee. How do student affairs skills translate to engaging alumni? What challenges and opportunities come with the shift? And what should student affairs professionals know if they're considering a move into alumni engagement? Join us as we discuss the connections between student and alumni experiences, the evolving landscape of alumni affairs, and how institutions can better integrate alumni into the student journey. We’ll also unpack common misconceptions, surprising insights, and the role of technology in shaping alumni engagement. Whether you're curious about this career path or looking for ways to strengthen student-to-alumni connections, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.

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Coming Soon: Current Campus Context

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We’re living in a moment where the ground is shifting daily—from policy changes and legal battles to funding decisions and challenges to the very foundations of our work to promote equity and access. The news...

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Activism, Burnout, and Community in Higher Education: Narratives of College Student Activists

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Authors of the new book Activism, Burnout, and Community in Higher Education: Narratives of College Student Activists, connect with Heather Shea to discuss the emotional and systemic challenges student activists face, the crucial role of collective care, and strategies for fostering environments that balance activism with well-being.This groundbreaking new book weaves together personal stories, research insights, and practical recommendations to offer timely insights into navigating the complexities of activism in higher education.

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Trauma-Informed Practices Across Campus

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Join Adam Jussel, Dimitri Topitzes, and Alberto Jose Maldonado from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee as they share about their trauma-informed practices and frameworks - how they came to be, how they have embraced them broadly, and the results. They share how an inclusive process surfaced the need for a trauma-informed approach and how centering relationships and connection has deepened understanding, empowered folks, and fostered engagement.

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The Next Act: Realigning Your Mindset, Purpose, and Career

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Drs. Jason Pina and Amy Hecht discuss their edited book, The Next Act: Realigning Your Mindset, Purpose, and Career. They share various paths within, beyond, and back to higher education for senior leaders. They discuss change, agency, possibilities, transition, privilege, and capacity.

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Exploring Staff Attrition and Retention in Student Affairs

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Studies have pointed to the emerging increase of student affairs professionals leaving their roles and even opting to leave the field entirely. While there is a growing number of studies and testimonials why student affairs professionals are opting to leave their roles, there are also reasons why student affairs professionals choose to stay. In this episode, a panel of guests share their perspective on this topic and the retention and departure of student affairs professionals.

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Intergroup Dialogue in Higher Education: Navigating Campus Challenges through Intentional Conversation

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Join us for an overview of intergroup dialogue (IGD) in higher education, featuring expert perspectives from scholars and practitioners Drs. Ximena Zúñiga, Bridget Turner Kelly, Mark Kamimura-Jiménez, and Nina Tissi-Gassoway. Panelists explore the philosophy and practice of IGD, discuss a four-stage approach, the relevance amidst campus unrest and polarization, implementation in student affairs graduate programs, and considerations for effective facilitation. Whether you're new to IGD or seeking advanced insights, this episode offers valuable perspectives on fostering inclusive and intentional dialogues on college campuses.

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COVID-19, Racial Inequity, and Basic Needs Insecurity

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This conversation discusses the report from The Hope Center on the implications of racial inequities on basic needs insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Frank Harris, III, Rjaa Ahmed, and Bryce McKibben discuss findings from a survey of almost 200,000 college students and numerous focus groups as well as implications for campus leaders and policy changes on and beyond individual campuses.

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“Whatever it is, I’m against it.” Resistance to Change in Higher Education

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Brian Rosenberg discusses his new book on the need for, resistance to, and possibilities for change in higher education. He discusses his experience, learning, and critical self-reflection as president of Macalester College, teaching higher education at Harvard University, and advising the African Leadership University. This is a conversation that will challenge and inspire higher education leaders.

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