Stephens attends AASCU conference

This was Stephen’s first experience at an AASCU conference. Participants of ELA are chosen through a competitive application process and are organized into regionally based cohorts to facilitate interactions among peers from diverse campuses and higher education disciplines, according to AASCU.

During the conference, Stephens delved into discussions on effective leadership, strategic planning, and the evolving challenges in higher education. This included a collaborative session hosted by AASCU and the Council of Independent Colleges featuring a slate of accomplished industry leaders with a wealth of experience to draw from, according to Stephens.

“The training has reiterated that while colleges take form in so many ways; each institution has its own unique culture, challenges, and opportunities,” Stephens said.

Stephens’ experience will continue during the academic year. The ELA requires professional preparation and engagement throughout a year-long process, according to Stephens. Over the course of the curriculum, Stephens can look forward to an individualized professional experience plan consisting of executive coaching, peer-to-peer participant-led webinars, regional gatherings, and mentorship by the ELA program director.

The insights and strategies gained from ELA are set to inform Stephen’s efforts to cultivate a supportive and dynamic environment for students at CSC.

“This program has already challenged me to be a more effective leader. There have already been a lot of ideas generated to sharpen my skills within higher education and better serve the students,” Stephens said.