The Division of Student Affairs (DoSA) was proudly represented at NASPA's 2026 Annual Conference in Kansas City, where a dynamic group of professionals contributed to national conversations on belonging, leadership, and student success.

Attendees included staff from across the division. Together, they engaged in professional development, networking, and knowledge-sharing with colleagues from across the country.

VPSA

• Ebony Brown, Executive Coordinator

• Briana Lawson, Director of Staff Culture and Wellbeing

Health and Wellbeing

• Dr. Rae Chresfield, Director of Health and Wellbeing

Residential Life

• DiAvanti Bedford, Assistant Director for Residential Education for Conduct & Care

• Ka'Lynn Ruth, Graduate Assistant, Residential Experience

Student Belonging

• Jennifer Artis, Director of Student Life and Success for Graduate, Adult Learners, and Commuters 

• Mitchell Everett, Assistant Director, Graduate Student Life

• Griselda Flores, Director, Essential Needs and Connections

• Angelina Jenkins, Assistant Director, The Mosaic Center

• Serena Studivant, Assistant Director, Commuter Student Success

Student Engagement

• Tori Ciorra, Assistant Director, Student Organizations

• Jen Ewing Fox, Assistant Director, Leadership and Governance

• Lesa Goodhue, Special Assistant to the Dean of Students

DoSA's presence was especially impactful through several conference presentations. Highlights included sessions on impostor syndrome and graduate student wellbeing, commuter and adult learner belonging, supervision best practices, professional development for frontline staff, and identity-based experiences in higher education. These presentations reflected the division's strong commitment to advancing inclusive excellence and supporting diverse student populations.

Studivant showcased the Commuter Connections initiative through two poster presentations, further elevating the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments for commuter students. Her work was recognized nationally with a NASPA Excellence Award, highlighting DoSA's leadership in advancing commuter student success and belonging.

NASPA 2026 provided an opportunity for DoSA staff to both learn from and contribute to the field of student affairs. The conference experience reinforced the institution's ongoing dedication to fostering belonging, innovation, and student-centered practices.

DoSA continues to lead with purpose, amplifying voices, sharing knowledge, and shaping the future of higher education.

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