Growing up, I saw firsthand what it means to face barriers—and to find ways around them. Those living in low-income communities can be incredibly resilient and resourceful. Those experiences, unbeknownst to me at the time, shaped my commitment to education and to creating systems that work for everyone [capital E], especially in higher education. The…
The Epidemic of Deceit We are about to have an important election, and the country has to make a choice that goes beyond traditional party preferences. It’s not just about politics; the truth is being attacked in ways that have never been seen before in modern American history—full stop. The book “Invisible Rulers: The People…
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…
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…
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…
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…