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/ [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 [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4069.Man_s_Search_for_Meaning]    More about University of Southern Maine: https://usm.maine.edu/ [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 [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/  [https://www.ndrn.org/resource/ed-eo/] * Higher Education Coalition’s community service initiatives: https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/colleges-old/higher-ed-coalition/ [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 [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 [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 [https://linktr.ee/deveautrain]    LINKS:    Connect with Joel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-quintong-4097b89/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-quintong-4097b89/]  More about Iona University: https://www.iona.edu/ [https://www.iona.edu/]