Program Sessions  

Title: Beyond the Followers: Cultivating a Digital Campus Community

Presenters:  Crystal Vazquez & Kaitlyn Crisantos 

Audience- U, G, P

Description: In today’s digital world, social media is no longer a casual platform- it’s a powerful tool for connection, engagement, and peer influence! This workshop explores how Student Affairs professionals can strategically invest their department’s social media presence to publicize educational resources, promote events and programs, and build trust through student-led content. Using key insights from our work with the Commuter and Off-Campus Life at the University of Illinois Chicago, we’ll share best practices for content creation, utilizing Instagram insights for data-informed decisions, maintaining brand alignment, and balancing education with entertainment. Focused on cultivating a digital campus community, the workshop goes beyond follower count to explore how authentic, intentional content fosters real connection and a sense of belonging! Whether you’re new to managing social media or seeking to optimize strategies, you’ll leave with practical takeaways, innovative concepts, and peer insights to help elevate your digital presence and engage students more meaningfully. 

Title: Community and Connection by Unmuting 

Presenters:  Daniela Martinez 

Audience- G

Description: The goal of the workshop is to demonstrate the importance of using your voice and unlearning silence. Using your voice leads to meeting others, expression, and the ability to nurture the voice and thoughts of others. Your voice, and all voices, deserve to be heard. 

Title: Embracing The Spirit of Polyculture to Enhance Solidarity, Inclusivity and Unity.  

Presenters:  Eka Sitohang 

Audience- U, G

Description: The goal of the session is to introducing and promoting the spirit of polycultural in multicultural environment on campus. participants will share ideas and experiences how to endorsing the concept through students activities, how to overcome the difficulties while bringing the theory into practice, and as a reflective moment to measure our commitment to support students development. The session will begin with a brief introduction of the presenters and topic, followed by a short reflection on the facilitator's experience that inspired the topic. After that, facilitators will explain the difference between multiculturalism and polyculturalism and share strategies on how to bring polyculturalism into practice. Participants will then engage in a conversation about the challenges of applying polyculturalism on campus. The program will conclude with a short reflective activity and closing remarks. 

Title: Graduate Assistants: The Secret Weapon for Student Success

Presenters:  Joey Rios 

Audience- G, P

Description: Graduate assistants are often perceived as extra help, but their influence extends far beyond administrative tasks or extra hands. GAs are vital contributors to every functional area of an institution. From advising to student activities to housing and beyond, graduate assistants create critical touch points that impact undergraduate student belonging, engagement, and retention. This session positions GAs as a "secret weapon" in advancing institutional outcomes. After a brief overview of statistics, theory, strategy, and experiences, participants will engage in interactive activities to map the impact graduate assistants make on their own campuses. Participants will also explore strategies to better integrate and leverage graduate assistants in addressing retention challenges within their roles and spaces. 

Title: Your Values and Talent Matter: Preparing for Graduate School during Uncertainty  

Presenters:  Nick Schaack 

Audience- U

Description: Gearing up for graduate school during times of uncertainty can be very intimidating. Universities are navigating budget changes and policy adjustments resulting from external decisions at local, state and national levels. Affecting the availability of professional development opportunities for grad students. Understanding values, skills, talents, and philosophy about working with college students and how you can leverage self-reflection, critical thinking, goal-setting, and transferable skills during the transition from college to grad school is critical. During this session, we will review important strategies for reflecting on undergraduate experiences, understanding talent, and creating individual developing philosophies that are informed by reflections. This will include hands-on activity and discussion. Strategies for reading role descriptions, selling yourself during interviews, and remaining calm in the midst of the current uncertainty will be discussed. Undergraduate students planning to apply to a Student Affairs graduate program and seek professional development opportunities like assistantships are encouraged to attend! 

Title: Who We Were and Who We Will Be: First-Generation Students in Academia  

Presenters:  Amanda Quinone, Jenny Guzman, & Olivia Newman 

Audience-  U, G

Description: Gearing up for graduate school during times of uncertainty can be very intimidating. Universities are navigating budget changes and policy adjustments resulting from external decisions at local, state and national levels. Affecting the availability of professional development opportunities for grad students. Understanding values, skills, talents, and philosophy about working with college students and how you can leverage self-reflection, critical thinking, goal-setting, and transferable skills during the transition from college to grad school is critical. During this session, we will review important strategies for reflecting on undergraduate experiences, understanding talent, and creating individual developing philosophies that are informed by reflections. This will include hands-on activity and discussion. Strategies for reading role descriptions, selling yourself during interviews, and remaining calm in the midst of the current uncertainty will be discussed. Undergraduate students planning to apply to a Student Affairs graduate program and seek professional development opportunities like assistantships are encouraged to attend! 

Title: Left on Read: When Grad School is the Focus  

Presenters:  Jaylhien Colbert, Tammie Leigh Brown-Edwards, & Samuel Obeng 

Audience- U, G

Description: As working professionals, graduate students are pulled in different directions. From work-life balance and social circles to homesickness and academics, it is easy to feel overloaded. What do you do when you have unread text messages and a looming 11:59pm deadline? Our program will help students transition into graduate school by developing healthy boundaries, traverse the pitfalls of being overwhelmed, managing time, and finding the balance between personal commitments and individual self-care. The workshop will explore communication strategies, setting reachable and realistic expectations while bridging the gap between personal life and academic responsibilities. Participants will leave with actionable steps to help improve their academic and personal growth. 

Title: Creating a Community for Marginalized Populations with a First Year Seminar  

Presenters:  Xavier-Thomas Mendoza & Kaycee Sakal 

Audience- P

Description: We will share our experience of teaching a UNIV 101 first year seminar for multiple years, at Loyola University Chicago, the impact of the community spaces we've created, the impact of supporting first-generation and students of color, the feedback students have noted with us after, and what we could have done better. 

Title: Public Speaking and Presenting Skills in Higher Education  
Presenters:  Peregrin Capriglione, Sovannak Ra, & Nina Osborne 

Audience- U, G

Description: In this presentation, participants will learn the importance of public speaking skills and acquire some guidance on how to become more comfortable and confident while presenting. There will also be chances for audience participation. 

Title: Supervising for Belonging: Identity-Conscious Practices in Student Affairs  
Presenters:  Benjamin Kofi Essilfie & Musah Sumaila 

Audience- U,G,P

Description: Supervision is more than task management; it is about creating spaces where student employees feel a sense of belonging. Supervisors in student affairs shape not only skills but also identity affirmation, confidence, and persistence. This interactive workshop introduces the concept of identity-conscious supervision, where supervisors intentionally recognize how students’ diverse identities influence their workplace experiences. Drawing from experiences in Campus Recreation and SIUE’s Summer Success Program, presenters will share practical strategies for balancing accountability with empathy while supporting holistic student development. Participants will engage in a case study scenario, group discussion, and reflection to practice applying identity-conscious approaches. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with tools to create more inclusive supervisory practices that strengthen student staff experiences and promote belonging across higher education contexts. 

Title: Empower First, Title Later: Emotionally Intelligent Leadership
Presenters: Scott Johansen, Tyler Annerino, Marvell Bennett, & Jenny Javkhlantugs. 

Audience-  U, G 

Description: Leadership comes in many shapes and forms, formal and informal. Leadership isn’t a job or position title. Rather, it is about the actions people take to make a difference within their community. Empowering the future also requires leaders to navigate dynamic challenges while being mindful of the impact on those around them. During this presentation, we’ll discuss the importance of consciousness of context, self, and others as described in “Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: A Guide for College Students” and its application in any situation. The Emotionally Intelligent Leadership (EIL) model provides a framework for impactful leadership, regardless of a title.  

Title: Should I stay or should I go: Navigating graduate school location  

Presenters:  Aster Oliver, Riley Coughlan, & Lexie Alt 

Audience-  U

Description: In this workshop three current HESA graduate students at Northern Illinois University share insight into how the location of their graduate program versus their undergraduate program (same institution, same state or different state) has impacted their experience of starting graduate school. Through this presentation, undergraduate students as well as those supporting undergraduate students in their selection of a graduate program can understand the benefits and challenges of each option. Students should leave feeling more informed of the things that should be taken into consideration when determining what change of location works best for the student, as well as resources and strategies to support how these changes affect transition to graduate school. 

Title: Bridging Borders: From Culture Shock to Culture Connection  

Presenters:  Kaylann, Tammie Leigh Brown Edwards,  Joyce Aikins 

Audience- U, G,P

Description: International and domestic students often experience very different challenges when navigating higher education, which can impact their ability to form authentic connections. International students may face culture shock, language barriers, and unfamiliar social norms, while domestic students may be unsure how to engage across cultural differences or provide support to those who come from a different background. This 45-minute interactive session, co-presented by a domestic and an international student, explores how meaningful cross-cultural relationships can be built despite these challenges. Presenters will share personal stories and practical strategies for navigating culture shock and fostering inclusion. Attendees will participate in the Spectrum Activity, an engagement tool that allows participants to physically position themselves along a continuum based on their experiences and perspectives, sparking reflection and discussion. By the end of the session, participants will have gained actionable strategies to support both domestic and international students in creating authentic, lasting relationships, both on and off campus. 

Title: Culture, Empathy, and BELIEVE: A Ted Lasso Approach for Modern Leadership  

Presenters:  Dante Patterson 

Audience- U, G

Description: In higher education, leadership and connection are needed more than ever. Culture, Empathy, and BELIEVE: A Ted Lasso approach for Modern Leadership will share with leaders how to take charge, build teams through empathy, and create a meaningful culture where students will thrive. Based on the award-winning show Ted Lasso, see how authenticity in leaders, culture-building, and positive psychology create high-performing teams. Through storytelling, interactive exercises, and evidence-based practice, attendees will leave with a skillset they can immediately apply to their own organizations. 

Title: Mindful or Mind-full - For Educators and Students!  

Presenters:  Wendall Lytle & Jailyn Stevenson  

Audience- U, G, P

Description: We will be hosting an interactive workshop focused on mindfulness in the education field. This presentation is designed primarily for higher education professionals, who are often overlooked and underappreciated, though students can also benefit from the content. The session will be engaging and hands-on, and participants will have the opportunity to engage with our mindfulness interactive journal as an additional resource. 

Title: Policy 101: Demystifying Public Policy's Impact on Higher Education  

Presenters:  Terry Paape 

Audience- G, P

Description: This session provides a foundational overview of how public policy and governmental affairs shape higher education. Designed for graduate students and new professionals, the session will break down complex policy topics into accessible, real-world examples. We'll explore the key players involved—from legislators and lobbyists to institutional leaders and student advocates—and how their actions influence everything from tuition rates and financial aid to research funding and campus regulations. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of what public policy is, why it matters to their work, and how they can effectively engage with the policy process, even without a background in government. 

Title: Gamification Practices: Training Can Be Fun Too  

Presenters:  Andres Lopez 

Audience-  G, P

Description: Tired of the same training every year? Even the presenter is tired of reading off the slides. This workshop seeks to help participants gain gamification techniques to engage the audience and ensure that any staff, student, or professional is learning through training. 

Title: Doctoral Program panel 

Audience- Professionals and Master's Students looking to learn more about doctoral programs.

Description:   Thinking about going for your doctorate in student affairs? This panel is a great way to hear what different schools offer, what makes their programs stand out, and what the process looks like, from applying to navigating life as a doctoral student. You’ll get insight, helpful tips, and a chance to figure out what might be the right fit for you. 

Title: Leading from Where You Are: Building Your Leadership Identity in Student Affairs  

Presenters:  Parrama Chouhan 

Audience- U, G

Description: Leadership is not limited to titles or positions; it is a practice rooted in influence, service, and authenticity. In this session, participants will explore how their identities, values, and lived experiences shape their leadership style and capacity. Drawing from personal experiences in student leadership, service, and professional involvement, the presenter will guide participants in reflecting on their own “why” and identifying opportunities to lead from where they are, whether as undergraduates, graduate students, or professionals. Together, we will address common challenges such as imposter syndrome and role overload, while building strategies for resilience and growth. Participants will leave with actionable steps to enhance their leadership journey and a renewed sense of purpose in their student affairs roles. 

Title: Marketing Bonds Within Your Community: An Identity Based Approach to Programming  

Presenters:  Riley Campbell 

Audience- U, G, P

Description: Identity-focused initiatives are currently under a lot of pressure from both political and social forces. However, this does not mean embracing one’s identity should be shied away from or ignored. Focusing on what a specific student population needs and could benefit from personally and culturally is key to uplifting and uniting. When creating a program or activity for a group, you must ask yourself, “What is most important to the group?”, because addressing their present needs instead of trying to distract them is what makes a difference. A new programming model called SCREENS aims to address this in a way to create bonds within the communities of higher education environments. This model creates a roadmap to creating and establishing a sense of connection with communities centered around identity-focused interaction and programming. 

Title: Bridging the Gap: Addressing Loneliness and Isolation Among College Students  

Presenters:  Aminat Kareema & Kelvin Owusu Mensah 

Audience- U, G, P

Description: College is often portrayed as an exciting chapter of self-discovery and connection, yet for many students—especially first-generation students and those navigating cultural differences( International Students)—the transition can feel isolating. The challenge of building a support system in an unfamiliar environment, coupled with the absence of mentorship, can leave students struggling with loneliness and social disconnection. This webinar will explore the root causes of social isolation and loneliness in college, focusing on the impact of mentorship gaps, cultural differences, and environmental transitions. 

Title: From Hidden to Heard: Supporting Students with Non-Visible Disabilities  

Presenters: Dalton Byers & KP Butler 

Audience- G, P

Description: The discussion and consideration of disability frequently forgets the presence of hidden disabilities. Helping students with hidden disabilities transition successfully from high school to college requires a better understanding of their situation, empathy for their struggles, and supporting them to know their strengths. At the end of the presentation, attendees will have a greater understanding of hidden disabilities and the potential barriers students face in transitioning to college with these disabilities. 

Title: Cultivating Future Professionals: Mentoring Student Employees in Student Affairs

Presenters: Sam Bruner 

Audience- G, P

Description: Student employees in student affairs are more than part-time workers—they're emerging professionals gaining firsthand experience in higher education and the general workforce. This workshop will explore how student affairs professionals, regardless of their area of expertise, can intentionally mentor student employees by helping them develop communication skills, self-awareness, and leadership experience. Participants will leave with strategies to create developmental opportunities that transform student roles into launching pads for lifelong careers. 

Title: M.S.Ed Program Panel 

Audience- All Undergraduate students

Discriptions: All undergraduate students are encouraged to attend the Master’s Program Panel to learn more about graduate pathways in student affairs. Representatives from NIU, WIU, SIUE, and ISU will share what makes their programs unique, what to expect in graduate school, and how a master’s degree can shape your career. You’ll also hear from a current student and have the chance to ask questions about program structure and professional opportunities. Whether you're just exploring or actively planning for grad school, this session is a valuable step toward your future.