Division of Student Affairs Hosts 11th Annual Conference

On May 15, MGA's Division of Student Affairs hosted its 11th annual Student Affairs Conference. The theme of this year's conference was "Charting Our Path Forward." 

Dr. Stacey Roberts, a certified executive and leadership trainer, was the keynote speaker who kicked off the day full of professional development. The breakout sessions included:

• Let's Work Together (For Real This Time): A Blueprint for Collaboration - Dr. Mary Roberts, Executive Director, Center for Career and Leadership Development
• The Fraud Behind the Face: Unmasking Imposter Syndrome – Dr. Corey Guyton, Director of Student Engagement
• Creating a Climate of Trust – Carl Woods, Director of Recreation and Wellness
• Student Engagement and Technology- Ca’Shun Barr, Community Assistant and SGA President
• Navigating Stress & Burnout – Azziza Pitts, Mental Health Counselor
• Preparing the “Table” for Leadership: Exploring Organizational Culture – Dr. Christina Jackson, Executive Director for Housing & Residence Life. 

 All were key to making this 11th conference spectacular.

At the conclusion of the conference, the Division had their annual Greatness Awards which recognized greatness within Student Affairs. Members of the Division of Student Affairs nominate their colleagues for these awards. This year’s winners are:

New Professional of the Year – Kaasha Thayer, Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance and Student Services

Unsung Hero Award – Christy Faulk,  Student Services Coordinator

Bright Idea Award – Christina Jackson, Executive Director for Housing & Residence Life

Extra Mile Award – Rafael Villamil, Coordinator for Student Leadership Programs

Friend of the Division Award – Tamatha Lambert, Dean of the Libraries

Distinguished Leadership Award – Carl Woods, Director for Recreation & Wellness

Kudos to the Student Affairs Professional Development Team (pictured below with the keynote speaker, Dr. Stacey Roberts) for organizing and implementing the most successful student affairs conference to date. 

The traditional symbol for an 11-year anniversary is steel, symbolizing the strength and durability a partnership develops over time. Steel is a tough metal that isn't rigid, but malleable and able to adapt and withstand whatever challenges life brings, underscoring that relationships grow more resilient each year. This precisely describes the professionals who make up the Division of Student Affairs. 

The Division gathers annually to connect and learn, to celebrate another crazy year, and refuel, refresh, and rejuvenate themselves for the upcoming year.