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Ever wonder what it takes to lead a major professional association while juggling a demanding day job? In this special mini-episode celebrating the ACUHO-I Annual Conference, we sit down with Kathy Hobgood, current ACUHO-I President and Associate Vice President for Auxiliary Enterprises at Clemson University.

Kathy takes us behind the curtain of association leadership, revealing why professional organizations matter now more than ever. "How can we provide a place for people to come together and just be together, even if there's no answers?" she asks, highlighting the community-building function that remains crucial during challenging times in higher education. We explore ACUHO-I's three-pronged approach—community, education, and advocacy—that helps housing professionals navigate everything from budget crises to occupancy challenges.

The conversation turns personal as Kathy shares her unexpected journey to leadership, including a pivotal conversation with a mentor who challenged her to serve her region before seeking national office. Her revelation about fundraising—"I used to think I was terrible at asking people for money. I'm going to find out I am shameless in the name of a good cause"—offers a powerful reminder that leadership roles often help us discover strengths we didn't know we had. For anyone attending the upcoming conference, Kathy's advice to be "as aggressively friendly as your personality type will allow" and to make time for industry partners even when not currently buying, provides a practical roadmap for making the most of professional development opportunities.

Whether you're heading to Columbus for Campus Home Live or simply curious about the housing profession, this conversation offers valuable insights about professional growth, association leadership, and finding your people in higher education. Connect with us at the conference or share this episode with colleagues who might benefit from a little inspiration and practical wisdom!