Fac/Staff Lounge

Reengaging with Joy in Student Affairs

In this episode, Laura De Veau speaks with Andrew Pollom, Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Southern Maine, about rediscovering the joy in student affairs work. Andrew reflects on the challenges of the post-pandemic era and how rereading "Man's Search for Meaning" inspired him to focus on creating a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff. They discuss problem-solving, retention strategies, and the importance of embracing innovation and professional development to reignite passion in the field. Andrew emphasizes the value of celebrating student success and fostering a sense of vocation in higher education.
 
LINKS
 
Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-andrew-pollom/ 
 
“Man’s Search for Meaning”: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4069.Man_s_Search_for_Meaning 
 
More about University of Southern Maine: https://usm.maine.edu/ 
 

Organize, Don’t Agonize: Education and Democracy in Crisis

In this conversation, Laura De Veau and Jess O'Connell discuss the intersection of education and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by higher education leaders in today's political climate. They explore the importance of community organizing, the impact of funding on education, and the potential consequences of dismantling the Department of Education. The discussion emphasizes the need for proactive engagement and the role of education in fostering a healthy democracy. In this conversation, Jess O'Connell and Laura De Veau discuss the significant challenges facing young people today, particularly in relation to education and the financial burdens they carry. They explore the despair felt by younger generations, the implications of educational reforms, the importance of data in education, and the need for respect for credentials. The conversation also highlights the necessity of coalition building among higher education leaders to address these issues strategically and effectively.
Key Topics Covered:
The role of education as a cornerstone for a healthy democracy.
The financial and societal consequences of dismantling the Department of Education.
The erosion of trust in educational institutions due to political interference.
The importance of coalition building among higher education leaders for effective advocacy.
Strategies for addressing despair among young people burdened by student loans.
How data integrity and respect for credentials are essential to educational leadership.
The necessity of proactive local engagement to drive systemic change.
Quotes from the Episode:
“Building community is not just important—it’s imperative for effective advocacy.” – Jess O'Connell
“Education should be a hopeful profession that fosters learning, diversity, and opportunity.” – Laura De Veau
Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Jess: https://www.newcostrategies.com/team/jess-oconnell
National Disability Rights Network on the impact of dismantling the Department of Education: https://www.ndrn.org/resource/ed-eo/ 
Higher Education Coalition’s community service initiatives: https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/colleges-old/higher-ed-coalition/ 
NEA’s analysis on Project 2025’s implications for higher education: https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/project-2025-and-higher-education 
Connect with Dr. De Veau and Join her in the Fac/Staff Lounge: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain
 

Mini-ep: Crisis Management with Matthew Colpitts

Laura welcomes Matt Colpitts, the Emergency Preparedness Manager at the University of Washington Bothell. They discuss pertinent issues regarding crisis management in higher education, particularly the challenges posed by political polarization, protests, and large events. Matt emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, cultural competency, and adaptability to evolving student demographics and societal changes. They also underscore the need for higher education institutions to go beyond mere compliance and actively ensure the emotional and physical well-being of their campus communities. The discussion concludes with a resolution for student affairs leaders to push for comprehensive crisis preparedness plans that reflect the diverse needs of modern student populations.
 
Topics
00:21 Meet Matt Colpitts: Emergency Preparedness Manager
00:57 Current Concerns in Higher Education
01:35 Protests and Security Challenges
02:41 Impact of Global and Domestic Crises
02:58 Strategic Crisis Management
05:26 Polarization and Security Risks
09:25 Generational Differences in Crisis Response
10:47 Adapting Crisis Management to Changing Demographics
13:28 The Importance of Cultural Competency
17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

Dr. Elizabeth Allan on the Stop Campus Hazing Act

Laura welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Allan, a University of Maine professor of Higher Education and founder of the research group Stop Hazing. Dr. Allan shares her insights on the Stop Campus Hazing Act, signed into law by President Biden on December 24th. She delves into the years of effort that culminated in this legislation, its requirements for colleges to implement comprehensive hazing prevention programs, and her involvement in research and policy advocacy. The episode also explores the broader implications for campus culture, the challenges of implementation, and the multidisciplinary approach required to address hazing in higher education. Dr. Allan emphasizes the importance of transparency, comprehensive prevention strategies, and the collective efforts needed to change campus climates.
 
Topics
00:26 Introducing Dr. Elizabeth Allan and Her Work
01:25 The Stop Campus Hazing Act
02:08 Personal Anecdotes and Early Career
04:54 Dr. Allan's Journey into Anti-Hazing Work
13:44 Challenges and Surprises in Hazing Research
17:07 Legislative Process and Collaboration
22:37 Understanding the Impact of Hearings on Campus Safety
23:19 Engaging with Lawmakers: Questions and Concerns
24:59 Balancing Practitioner and Faculty Perspectives
27:43 The Comprehensive National Study on Hazing
30:28 Implementing Hazing Prevention on Campuses
32:25 Resources and Support for Hazing Prevention
34:59 Expanding Research and Future Directions
43:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mini-ep: Iona University's Joel Quintong

Laura De Veau chats with Joel Quintong, Dean of Students at Iona University, about the unique mission of Catholic institutions of higher education in a rapidly changing world. Joel discusses the growing trend of lay leadership in these institutions and the importance of maintaining their Catholic identity and values. They explore the need for leaders and staff who understand and respect the Catholic tradition, connecting it to contemporary challenges. Joel emphasizes the significance of the founding mission in Catholic institutions. 
 
Want to be a Mini Episode Guest? Email Laura at: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain 
 
LINKS: 
 
Connect with Joel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-quintong-4097b89/ 
More about Iona University: https://www.iona.edu/

The DEI Challenge: Marybeth Gasman of Rutgers

Laura discusses the impacts of recent executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives with Dr. Marybeth Gasman, Director of the Center for Minority Serving Institutions at Rutgers University. Dr. Gasman shares the challenges faced by her center following an executive order that resulted in the cancellation of a virtual conference on registered apprenticeships. She emphasizes the importance of proper crisis management, effective communication, and strategic funding to navigate such disruptions. Additionally, Dr. Gasman highlights the center’s dedication to supporting minority-serving institutions and their innovative programs, including a new research and innovation fellowship aimed at tackling community issues. The conversation also touches on the personal and professional impacts of these challenges, reinforcing the need for leadership training and resilience in academia.
 
To connect with Dr. De Veau’s Guest, Dr. Gasman: https://gse.rutgers.edu/faculty/marybeth-gasman/ 
To learn more about the Rutgers Center for Minority Serving Institutions: https://cmsi.gse.rutgers.edu/ 
To connect with Dr. De Veau and learn more about her Substack, her book and more: https://linktr.ee/deveautrain 
 
Topics
00:51 Meet Dr. Marybeth Gasman
01:07 Impact of Executive Orders on DEI Initiatives
02:38 Navigating Professional and Ethical Travel Choices
02:47 Exploring Philadelphia's Culinary Scene
04:32 Introduction to the Center for Minority Serving Institutions
06:13 Challenges and Successes of the Center
09:12 The Canceled Conference: Background and Impact
14:55 Misunderstandings and Media Reactions
24:15 Engaging with Social Media
24:47 Facing Criticism from the Left
26:13 Advice on Handling Executive Orders
27:42 Crisis Communication Strategies
29:53 Leadership and Crisis Management
30:57 Funding and Budgeting in Higher Ed
33:16 Training and Support for Leaders
35:48 Challenges in Academic Leadership
41:19 Rutgers' Approach to Center Reviews
43:55 Looking Forward: Exciting Projects
45:39 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Welcome to the Fac/Staff Lounge

In the premiere episode of The Faculty Staff Lounge, Dr. Laura De Veau introduces the new podcast transitioning from Office Hours with Dr. De Veau. Recorded at the 50th Maryland Student Affairs Conference (MSAC), this episode features a panel discussion moderated by Dr. De Veau, with panelists Dr. Mamta Accapadi, Dr. Brian McGowan, and Dr. Paige Haber Curran. The theme 'Leading with Heart' guides a deep dive into fostering trust, leveraging emotional intelligence, and adapting student affairs practices in a changing landscape. The episode also addresses critical issues like institutional closures and political challenges to DEI efforts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, transparency, and community in higher education.
 
Topics
 
00:00 Welcome to The Faculty Staff Lounge
01:25 Introduction to the 50th MSAC Conference
04:29 Panel Discussion: Leading with Heart
08:16 Building Trust in Higher Education
19:10 Challenges and Emotional Energy in Leadership
30:02 The Importance of Human Connection
36:24 Co-Creating Experiences with Students
37:15 Empathy and Self-Work
38:25 Family History and Resilience
40:56 Intergenerational Impact and Indigenous Wisdom
42:10 Addressing Deficit Ideology in Education
46:48 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
52:04 Challenges Facing Higher Education
55:21 Post-Pandemic Student Engagement
01:02:52 Future of Student Affairs and DEI
01:10:05 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

NASPA President Dr. Amelia Parnell

In this finale episode for Season 4, It was Dr. De Veau’s pleasure to speak with Dr. Amelia Parnell, the newly appointed President of NASPA, discussing her transition to the role that will begin July 1, 2024. Getting to know Amelia and her motivation to become the next NASPA President. Amelia is a data head and hard-wired optimist. And we spend time speaking about both! (Dat and optimism) … but we also discussed the challenges that the profession is facing. She shares personal anecdotes that shaped her leadership philosophy, including her first job experiences and the lessons learned from them about complex systems, quality control, and the importance of every role in an organizationParnell expresses a strong commitment to innovation and community within NASPA. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing NASPA’s role as a vibrant community of professionals dedicated to advancing the field of student affairs. Looking ahead, Amelia acknowledges the challenges facing the field of student affairs but remains optimistic about the opportunities for growth and innovation. She highlights the importance of balancing joy and challenge in her work, aiming to foster an environment where both can thriveAmelia values deep, meaningful engagement and is committed to building strong relationships within the NASPA community and beyond. She mentions her approach to leadership as one that is inclusive and collaborative, aiming to bring together diverse voices and perspectives to enrich the field. Bio for Guest: https://naspa.org/people/dr-amelia-parnell Linked In for Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameliaparnell/ Amilia’s Book, “You are a Data Person”: https://www.routledge.com/You-Are-a-Data-Person-Strategies-for-Using-Analytics-on-Campus/Parnell/p/book/9781642671377 Office Hours with Dr. De Veau is a podcast designed for the Higher Education community by a Higher Education professional. It is produced by David Yas and Pod617 studios. Dr. Laura De Veau is Principal & Founder of Fortify Associates, LLC. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to Dr. De Veau’s Substack Newsletter, “What’s Up in the Academy?” and follow her on Social Media. https://linktr.ee/deveautrain

Beth Devonshire on Title IX

It’s always a thought provoking conversation when Beth Devonshire joins Dr. De Veau! In this episode, Beth brings her legal and crisis management background to the show as they discuss the current landscape of campus unrest and protests as well as provides insight on the latest updates in the guidance/regulations related to Title IX. Beth brings her extensive legal expertise to the conversation, focusing on the nuances of managing campus unrest from a legal and administrative perspective. Laura and Beth explore the critical role of communication and the need for clear policies that are effectively communicated to all stakeholders. They discuss the potential repercussions of poorly managed crises, including the legal implications for institutions and the personal impact on students and staff.Beth provides an insightful analysis of recent changes in Title IX regulations and their impact on campus policies. She discusses the delicate balance between protecting free speech and ensuring a safe, non-discriminatory learning environment.Office Hours with Dr. De Veau is a podcast designed for the Higher Education community by a Higher Education professional. It is produced by David Yas and Pod617 studios. Dr. Laura De Veau is Principal & Founder of Fortify Associates, LLC. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to Dr. De Veau’s Substack Newsletter, “What’s Up in the Academy?” and follow her on Social Media. https://linktr.ee/deveautrain Connect with Beth on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-devonshire-491a4022/ Scripting for Laura’s Recording: Not for publication

Mark Greene, ’Relational Workplace’ Author

There is a gender gap in degree attainment, and it continues to widen. With 8.9 million women compared to 6.5 million men enrolled in 4 year degree programs in the US, there is a growing field of research on the topic, as well as a commitment to exploring what it means to support men on campus. Mark Greene is a speaker, consultant and writer who has spent over a decade “deconstructing our binary-riddled dialogues around manhood and masculinity.” During this episode, Mark challenges us to consider what is a healthy environment on campus for men, women and non-binary folk. Mark Greene writes, speaks, coaches and consults on the challenges we face as men, women and non-binary people impacted by our dominance-based culture of masculinity.As a co-founder of Relational Workplace.com and as a Senior Editor for the Good Men Project, Greene has spent over a decade as a writer, coach, and speaker, deconstructing our binary-riddled dialogues around manhood and masculinity. He is uniquely positioned to help individuals and organizations overcome retrogressive business behaviors and instead create diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace cultures of connection.Mark’s client list includes Sephora, Bank of America, Société Générale, General Mills, Catalyst, AOL, Wiggin and Dana, The Better Man Conference, Jennifer Brown Consulting, and more. Guest on Medium: https://medium.com/@remakingmanhood Guest Website: https://remakingmanhood.com/ Guest LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/RemakingManhood Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrkgreene/ Office Hours with Dr. De Veau is a podcast designed for the Higher Education community by a Higher Education professional. It is produced by David Yas and Pod617 studios. Dr. Laura De Veau is Principal & Founder of Fortify Associates, LLC. If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to subscribe to Dr. De Veau’s Substack Newsletter, “What’s Up in the Academy?” and follow her on Social Media. https://linktr.ee/deveautrain