Women at the Forefront of Student Affairs History

Student affairs has had a long history of women contributing to the profession that dates back to the turn of the century. This is something I feel too often goes under-appreciated. In many ways, women were almost wholly responsible for many of the values and principles we uphold in our work. Chief among them, the care for the whole person. Although the field is usually noted as beginning with the appointment of LeBarron Briggs in 1890 as Harvard’s “Dean of the College” in charge of student welfare, women quickly followed with Elizabeth… Read More
How ACPA’s Standing Committees Got Their Name

I currently serve as the American College Personnel Association’s (ACPA’s) Coordinator for Standing Committees. Standing Committees are organizations in ACPA that represent some of the social identities present in the student affairs profession and in our work with students. In my role, I represent, coordinate the work of, and advocate for the Standing Committees for/on Women, Men, Graduate Students and New Professionals, Disability, Multicultural Affairs, and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Awareness. Although our mission is clear, the name “Standing Committee,” is often a source of confusion for new (and even experienced)… Read More