On Mother’s Day, we celebrate the extraordinary women who have shaped our lives through their unwavering love, wisdom, and resilience. It’s a day filled with appreciation for the countless sacrifices made by mothers worldwide. I wanted to create space to pay homage to the women who not only raised their children with little resources but…

In higher education, we are encountering two significant challenges: burnout and attrition in student services roles. These dedicated professionals are crucial in enhancing the educational experience, so it is essential to prioritize their well-being and satisfaction for the benefit of students. This piece will revisit these subjects, analyze the causes of burnout, and propose practical strategies…

In a previous blog post, I introduced and began to explore the concept of the Incongruent Campus-Conference Persona (ICCP), a term I’ve coined to encapsulate the dichotomy observed in professional behavior, especially within the higher education sector. This reflection builds upon those initial thoughts, delving deeper into the implications of ICCP behaviors and the strategies…

Today, I pay tribute to the revered Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. by drawing upon his unique ability to recognize and provide insightful criticism of events that are frequently misinterpreted or ignored. He was more than just the person who could deliver the “I Have a Dream” speech. That is the version that is more…

The Unseen Influences in Our Workplace Imagine a scenario: Alex, an enthusiastic and experienced professional, recently joined the Fraternity and Sorority Life Department at a prestigious university as an Assistant Director. Brimming with ideas and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Alex was eager to contribute to the department. However, Alex soon encountered an unexpected…

In the world of college sports, there are few names as legendary as Joe Paterno. For over half a century, he held an unshakable grip over Penn State University’s football program, a place affectionately known as “Happy Valley.” However, it became evident between March and November of 2011 that ‘Happy Valley’ wasn’t so joyful for…

In a world where stereotypes of masculinity often prioritize strength and aggression, the importance of male wellness, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, has been overshadowed. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that toxic masculinity not only harms children and women but also negatively impacts males themselves. Growing up, I, too, was exposed to these…

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where someone’s advice didn’t quite resonate with you? Perhaps it was a mentor, a colleague, or even a supervisor. I recall past encounters that left me pondering the complexities of leadership and the underlying factors that shape our perceptions of worthy leaders. This experience, coupled with the…

The question of whether to professionalize the Florida State Legislature has been a hot topic in the world of politics. This debate involves increasing lawmaker pay, regulating outside employment, and potentially turning the Legislature into a full-time body. Yet, the concept is met with mixed feelings as some fear it may lead to the “big-government…

The adage “surround yourself with people who will fight for you in rooms you aren’t in” has profound significance, especially for those who find themselves on the margins of society. This saying underscores the importance of fostering a network of allies who are eager to advocate for your cause in situations where your own voice…

The digital age has revolutionized the way we work, learn, and connect with others. As we continue to navigate through these unprecedented times, it’s essential to recognize the benefits of remote work, online learning, and online social groups. Remote Work: Flexibility and Productivity at Your Fingertips The rise of remote work has provided employees with…

Imagine finding yourself in the bustling city of Boston, surrounded by like-minded professionals and eager to absorb the wealth of knowledge and experience at NASPA 2023. The conference is a recharging experience, opening doors to new possibilities, connections, and insights. But as the excitement fades and the dust settles, how do you ensure that these…

Close your eyes and think about a pencil. What comes to mind? For most of us, it’s just a writing tool – nothing special or worth dwelling on. But what if I told you that a pencil has the power to teach us valuable life lessons? In a YouTube video I recently rewatched titled “Profound…

Vicarious trauma, also known as secondary traumatic stress, is the emotional and psychological distress that can result from hearing about or being exposed to the traumatic experiences of others. The term “vicarious trauma” was coined by Judith Lewis Herman in her book “Trauma and Recovery” published in 1992. In this book, she defined vicarious trauma…

The popular advice of “Faking it Until you make it” is often touted as a means of achieving success in the field of student affairs. However, this advice is not only ineffective, but it can also be dangerous and harmful to those who follow it, particularly people of color working in this field. The problem…

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and poisonous gas that is made when carbon-based fuels like gasoline, wood, and coal are burned. It can also come from natural things, like when a volcano erupts. Carbon monoxide can be dangerous or even kill you because it cuts down on how much oxygen your blood can…

In 2020, Tim Wise wrote a thoughtful piece entitled, Systemic Racism, Explained by Newton’s First Law of Motion: Those who deny its existence might as well deny inertia. It is a thought provoking piece! Isaac Newtons Laws of Motion are the basis of modern physics. However, the second law can be applied to the dynamics…