The latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field is not only a must-listen for higher education professionals but a rich resource for anyone seeking insight into the dynamic landscape of student affairs. Dr. Jill Creighton hosts a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Amelia Parnell, the new president and CEO of NASPA, as she reflects on her journey, the evolving challenges facing the profession, and her vision for the organization and the field. Leadership Through Uncertainty One of the strongest themes of the episode is leadership amidst change and uncertainty. Dr. Parnell candidly discusses stepping into her presidential role during a significant period of transition—mirroring the larger flux happening across higher education. She emphasizes the importance of staying calm, understanding the complexities of policy shifts, and making informed decisions, especially as national and state regulations impact campuses at breakneck speed. The Power of Community Dr. Parnell’s gratitude for the NASPA community—its staff, members, and peer associations—shines through. Her message is clear: while the challenges ahead are real and substantial, the strength of student affairs lies in its collaborative spirit and supportive networks. She notes that community isn’t just a buzzword. Whether through regional conferences, association partnerships, or simply reaching out to colleagues, being “in it together” makes turbulent times more bearable and productive. Value and Impact of Student Affairs A recurring point throughout the episode is the critical need to showcase the impact of student affairs, not just in crisis management or engagement, but as facilitators of student learning and success. Dr. Parnell calls for professionals to embrace data, tell their stories, and make a compelling case for the essential role they play across campuses nationwide. She encourages the field to move beyond simply surviving and towards thriving, both individually and institutionally. Looking Ahead Perhaps most inspiring, Dr. Parnell expresses optimism for the future. She predicts ongoing difficulty but also emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the vibrancy of the student affairs profession. Her practical advice—utilize new NASPA resources, invest in community, focus on continuous learning, and center the student experience—resonates deeply. Tune In for Insight and Inspiration If you’re searching for honest dialogue and encouragement amidst challenging times, this episode is essential listening. Dr. Parnell’s warmth, expertise, and hopefulness will leave you feeling empowered and connected—ready to support your campus and each other as the field forges ahead. Listen to the full conversation and join the ongoing journey with the NASPA community. Your work and your voice matter—now more than ever. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:01]: Welcome to Student Affairs Voices from the Field, the podcast where we share your student affairs stories from fresh perspectives to seasoned experts. Brought to you by NASPA, we curate free and accessible professional development for higher ed professionals wherever you happen to be. This is season 12, continuing our journey through the past, present, and future of student affairs. I'm doctor Jill Creighton, sheherhers, your essay voices from the field host. Today on essay voices, I'm so pleased to bring you a conversation with doctor Amelia Parnell, our first on the podcast with her in her new role as president of NASPA. We've had doctor Parnell on before in her prior role at NASPA as the VP for research and policy, and I really loved getting to hear her vision for the organization, where we're going as an association. And if you weren't able to attend the annual conference, she also follows up on some of her remarks and her keynote speech. So this is not one to miss. Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:53]: We're so glad that Amelia was able to make the time to come on the show. A little bit more about Amelia. Doctor Parnell is an accomplished higher ed leader and executive and an internationally recognized thought leader regarding current issues and emerging trends in the field. She's a passionate advocate for higher education as a tool for personal advancement and impact, and she seeks opportunities to partner with organizations and individuals who share her sincere commitment to centering students' needs. In her prior role as VP for research and policy at NASPA, she led many of the association's scholarly and advocacy focused activities and fostered partnerships with college administrators, researchers, grantmakers, and other higher ed professionals. As a frequent keynote speaker at national and regional conferences, Amelia presents on topics related to higher ed, student affairs, college affordability, student learning outcomes, and institutions' use of data and analytics. She's been quoted in The Wall Street Journal, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher...
