From Student Affairs to Alumni Affairs

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.

Current Campus Context: Federal Student Aid, Institutional Autonomy & Associations’ Push Back

Dr. Felecia Commodore and Dr. Demetri Morgan join host Heather Shea to discuss the latest threats to higher education and what comes next. This episode was recorded at 5:11 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 27th….

Gentelligence: The Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce

Dr. Megan Gerhardt discusses moving from intergenerational differences as tension to opportunities. She shares ways we stereotype, shame, and blame other generations, as well as the four practices to help make intergenerational differences a strength in organizations.

Current Campus Context: Exec. Order Dismantling the Dept. of Education, Weaponizing Federal Funding, International Students & Scholars

In this episode (recorded at 5:08 p.m. on March 20), Dr. OiYan Poon and Dr. Crystal Garcia join Dr. Heather Shea to discuss the executive order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, the politicization of federal funding, and rising barriers for international students and scholars.

Here’s the Story: “When Feedback Feels Like Failure”

Struggling through his first year as a professor, Dr. Snipes faced feedback that made him question his future in academia. But just as he was ready to walk away, an unexpected encounter encourages him to stay.

Current Campus Context: Education Cuts, Student Detainment, and the Politics of Funding

In this week’s rapid-response episode, Dr. Heather Shea is joined by Drs. Felecia Commodore and Brendan Cantwell to break down the latest developments in higher education policy and politics. They discuss the U.S. Department of…

“What’s Important to Us?” – Reflections from listeners at ACPA 2025

While attending the 2025 ACPA Conference in Long Beach, California, host Glenn DeGuzman invited random attendees to come in front of the camera and answer the following question: “What topic or issue is very important to you now and that you want to engage with more in student affairs?” The myriad of responses is a reminder of the diversity of people, places, and positions that make up our profession.

Current Campus Context: Dear Colleague Letter FAQ, “Illegal” Protests, and more

In this week’s rapid-response episode, Dr. Heather Shea is joined by Drs. Brendan Cantwell and OiYan Poon to break down the latest developments—from the Department of Education’s uncertain future to new guidance in the form…

Lori Patton Davis & Shaun Harper in Conversation

Join us for a special episode of Student Affairs Now, recorded live at ACPA25 on Monday, February 17, where hosts Raechele Pope and Heather Shea sit down with higher education icons Dr. Lori Patton Davis and Dr. Shaun Harper. These lifelong friends and influential scholars reflect on their groundbreaking research, leadership journeys, and unwavering advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we reflect on the current moment, this conversation offers timely insights and inspiration for student affairs professionals and educators.