Presenters: Stacey Ellis, Human Resources and Adrianne Jones, Human Resources
Location: Johnson Center, Room A

This workshop is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in a modern, flexible work environment. Supervisors will discuss the benefits of flexible work, develop essential knowledge and skills for engaging a hybrid workforce, and learn how to effectively manage employee performance, development, and engagement in a hybrid environment. Participants will be provided with actionable strategies to leverage the opportunities presented by hybrid work.

Presenters: Rachel Wernicke and Molly Wernicke, University Life
Location: Johnson Center, Georges

As Mason grows, leaders must promote innovation to meet the changing needs of students and find ways to retain employees who are increasingly exhausted. As a result, we must learn how to create cultures that support innovation and well-being.  A critical part of this process is psychological safety. This workshop will allow participants to learn about the benefits of psychological safety and to identify practices that support psychological safety in an engaging, interactive space.

Presenters: Sarah Atif, Office of the Ombudsperson and Kimberly Jackson Davidson, Office of the Ombudsperson
Location: Johnson Center, Room C

This session will demonstrate experientially how essential intentional listening can be to team based inquiry and problem solving. In the current polarized context, supervisors, students, workers, and scholars of every stripe can benefit from a deliberate focus on how we comprehend, or disregard, other’s observations, values, and concerns in the public square, the workplace, and academia.

Presenters:
Morgan Strimel, Jamilah Anderson, and Jennifer Torrance, Disability Services

Location: Johnson Center, Bistro

In this interactive workshop, attendees will first identify key terms and concepts related to disability and neurodiversity. Then, presenters will provide an overview of a multi-year Disability Access, Equity, and Inclusion Improvement Plan at Mason, including a community-created action plan for improving Mason’s culture of access and inclusion. Finally, presenters will facilitate an activity for attendees to identify strategies for implementing components of the action plan in their roles.

Presenters: Makenzie Gold Quiros, Housing and Residence Life
Location: Johnson Center, Bistro

This program is designed to help UL staff think critically about their role and the importance of day-to-day operations in their units. Too often, daily procedures and job duties are accepted at face value, with little thought as to how they might be improved or eliminated. Through the praxis of workplace wellness, this workshop aims to help reclaim ownership of our job duties and functions.

Presenters: Erikca Brown, Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Location: Johnson Center, Room A

In this session, participants will explore how their identities intersect with feelings of inclusion and exclusion. By enhancing their understanding of personal belonging, attendees will cultivate capacity to evaluate organizational policies, procedures, practices, strategies and foster honest, compassionate conversations to support access to opportunity. Join us to deepen your awareness and contribute to creating inclusive environments that promote community through understanding.

Presenters: Joisanne Rodgers, Shyama Kuver, and Matthew McLaughlin, Contemporary Student Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room C

There’s no longer a singular or “typical” definition of students. Students have evolved beyond the perceived "traditional" norms to include myriad & intersecting contemporary identities. In an era of shifting demographics & evolving paradigms, serving contemporary students has become increasingly complex & a vital endeavor for higher ed institutions. This session’s dedicated to emerging trends in support, promising practices, & exploring strategies tailored for the contemporary student community.

Presenters:Meeghan Milette and Amy Snyder, University Life Professional Development 
Location: Johnson Center, Georges

For the first time in history there are five generations actively participating in the professional workforce. With Gen Z entering the workforce, it is crucial for supervisors and leaders to maximize individual perspectives, skills, and talents to achieve stronger outcomes to fully leverage their teams. This pre-conference workshop will include shared conversation and experiences; providing you with resources and strategies to embrace the generational differences in the workplace.

Facilitators: Matt Myers, Philip Wilkerson, and Rachel Lindsey, University Career Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room A

We have all seen the growth of Artificial Intelligence in recent years. This session will explore how Mason students are using AI in their job searches, and what their prospective employers are seeing; and what they don't want to see! Learn how you can help students navigate these tools in a way that will maximize their competitiveness while still maintaining authenticity.

Come with ChatGPT or your favorite AI tool downloaded onto your device!

Facilitators: Shayma Kuver and Alexia Ferguson, Contemporary Student Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room B

Mason is preparing to make higher education more accessible for justice-impacted students. In this session, Contemporary Student Services will be introducing a toolkit created to support this emerging population in navigating higher education. Attendees will learn about the unique experiences of these students and explore how their offices can support Mason’s efforts in establishing intentional initiatives to be more accessible and a place of belonging for justice-impacted students.

Facilitators:
Austin Deray, Graduate Student Life
Dr. Julie Choe Kim, Graduate Student Life
Jonathan Carmona, Office of International Programs and Services

Location: Johnson Center, Room C

The increase in international graduate student enrollment over the past two years has put pressure on all units at Mason. Join us for an interactive and insightful discussion on how we can collectively better engage and support these students. After an overview of enrollment trends and common issues, we will hear from students about their lived experiences. We will conclude with individual and group reflections on solutions to promote success, well-being, and inclusion for this population.

Facilitators:
Meeghan Milette, University Life
Riley Redd, Student Success Coaching
Zareena Khan, Center for the Advancement of Well-Being

Location: Johnson Center, Room D

Podcasts have emerged as an innovative, dynamic form of media. With being highly accessible, discussing topics that range from fandoms to hard sciences; there is truly a podcast for anyone. This session will explore how to put podcasts to work for you to inform and enhance your professional development, for you as an individual and your teams. With so many possibilities to customize your podcast consumption, you will be able to grow you professional development with this session's strategies.

Facilitators: Josh Kinchen, LGBTQ+ Resources Center
Location: Johnson Center, Room E

This interactive session will include a history of LGBTQ+ service in the U.S. military, discuss of LGBTQ+-related military policies, and research related to LGBTQ+ student veterans and cadets. We will explore recommendations for creating inclusive communities for student veterans and non-military affiliated students that recognize the tension between the military-industrial complex and the individual experiences, intersectional identities, and motivations of U.S. servicemembers.

Facilitators: John Cicchetti, Threat Assessment Team Members, Student Support and Advocacy Center
Location: Johnson Center, Room F

Attendees will understand the role and function of BTAM Teams. Participants will enhance their awareness of aberrant or threatening behaviors and understand ways to properly report such concerns. The goal is to explore how each person plays a role in preventing targeting violence on our campuses. An overview of theory will be covered with a summary of relevant policy and Va. Code that directs the work of these required teams at public institutions in the Commonwealth.

Facilitators: Jill Manuel, Undergraduate Education
Location: Johnson Center, Room G

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been linked to a variety of physical and mental health issues, as well as lower levels of educational attainment With an understanding of the effects of ACEs, and the implications on post-secondary education, the American College Health Association has called for trauma-informed training for faculty and staff. This session explores the science behind the impacts of childhood trauma and the ways in which institutions may respond to this increased need.

Facilitators:
Rebecca Mattern, Micah Hodges, and Michael Rybak, Student Success Coaching 

Location: Johnson Center, George's

How do we motivate students to create change? Motivational Interviewing is one of many helping skills student affairs professionals have used to support students in creating change. In this presentation, we focus on the application of the “spirit” of motivational interviewing to our work in student affairs and other ways it has been applied. Participants will be able to leave with an understanding of how motivational interviewing can be applied in their own units.

Facilitators: Adam Anthony, University Life Marketing and Communications
Location: Johnson Center, Bistro

The higher education workplace is an increasingly complicated space where programs and initiatives compete for university leaders' and policymakers' attention and resources. Clear communications are more critical than ever.

The traditional slide deck has not evolved to meet these challenges, and a new approach is needed.

This session will help participants learn how to advocate for themselves and their programs more effectively by creating vibrant and persuasive presentations.

Facilitators: Makenzie Gold Quiros and Colton Goodman, Housing and Residence Life
Location: Johnson Center, Gold Room

This presentation will include a review of tools used by the HRL Appreciation Committee to increase departmental communication, appreciation, and engagement. Attendees will identify strategies to implement in their departments as well as specific ideas to increase positivity and engagement within their units. The HRL Appreciation Committee has been active for two years within Housing and coordinated many successes and learned many ways to improve- come learn from our experiences!

Location: Johnson Center, Dewberry

Campus activism has played an important role in shaping the history of our nation. The recent emergence of protests on campus has re-ignited important conversations on the role of activism and advocacy in shaping the student experience as well as the national landscape of politics, as well as national and global affairs. Institutions of higher education must balance the enforcement of policies and regulations and creating space for vital learning experiences for our students. This panel will explore the challenges and complexities of navigating campus activism and enhancing student learning outcomes including problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, identity development, and more.

Panelists:

• Dr. Creston Lynch, Assistant Vice President, University Life
• Dr. Tamara Washington, Director Center for Culture, Equity, and Empowerment
• Juliet Blank-Godlove, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students, University Life

Panel Moderator:

• Josh Kinchen, Director LGBTQ+ Resources Center

Location: Johnson Center, Bistro

Location: Johnson Center, Georges

Join us for this cross-functional panel will explore how Mason can better serve the needs of today's diverse student population. Panelists will share insights on working with contemporary students from varied backgrounds, as well as promising practices to promote equity and inclusion across campus. Attendees can expect to learn about current initiatives underway at Mason to create an environment where all students feel welcomed and supported throughout their academic journey.

Panelists:

• Janet Ha Poirot, Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Academic Success, Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS)
• Julie Choe Kim, Ph.D, Director of Graduate Student Life, University Life
• Nakia Waters, Assistant Director of First Generation Student Support, First Gen+ Center
• Jennifer Connors, Director of Office of Military Services

Panel Moderator:

• Shyama Kuver, Associate Director of Contemporary Student Services

Location: Johnson Center, Cinema

Join us as we explore and discuss the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education and its implications for the future. As AI technology continues to grow and develop, they present both opportunities and challenges for higher education. This panel brings together faculty and staff who are experts in the field. AI provides opportunities to enhance learning experiences and streamline administrative tasks. From enhancing learning experiences to streamlining administrative tasks, AI has the power to revolutionize various aspects of higher education. However, with these advancements come important considerations regarding ethics, equity, and the future of work. Through engaging dialogue and thought-provoking insights, our panelists will navigate the complex terrain of AI's role in shaping the future of higher education. Whether you're a faculty member, student, administrator, or industry professional, this panel promises to provide valuable perspectives and strategies for navigating the evolving intersection of AI and higher education.

Panelists:

• Charlie Spann, Interim Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Vice President for Information Technology
• Graziella McCarron, Assistant Professor, Leadership Studies, School of Integrative Studies
• Charles Kreitzer, Executive Director Mason Online
• Matthew Myers, Associate Director, Employer and Alumni Engagement, University Career Services

Panel Moderator:

• Hope Miller, Associate Director of Campus Events & Promotions, Student Involvement

Facilitators: Samantha Greenburg, Enrollment Management and Casey Smith, Technology Services - University Life
Location: Johnson Center, Room A

While ChatGPT may have written this, Sam & Casey told it what to say. Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of AI in student affairs with ChatGPT & Goblin Tools – the dynamic duo that will unleash your imagination, refine your ideas, & amplify your productivity. Get ready for an interactive journey filled with creativity, innovation, & a dash of AI magic. Say goodbye to any worries about AI & prepare for an interactive adventure packed with valuable insights & engaging demonstrations.

Facilitators: Christiana Bello, Nikki Harris, and Joshua Braaten, Student Success Coaching
Location: Johnson Center, Room B

This session will invite participants to think of new ways of engaging with their students on their campus that supports student success. Presenters will demonstrate how centering cultural recognition of a student cultural identity can aid in academic success and sense of belonging on a 40,000+ student campus. Strategies for incorporating campus partners in a large-scale student initiative.

Facilitators: Wai Ling Fong and Meeghan Milette, University Life Professional Development
Location: Johnson Center, Room C

Graduate students are a diverse population with varying needs and goals. Despite their differing reasons for enrolling in graduate programs, they are all actively forming their professional identity through the socialization process of graduate school. This session explores how supervisors can actively support graduate assistants' professional development and foster a positive environment to empower them to reach their full potential.

Facilitators: Olivia Bowman, Housing and Residence Life
Location: Johnson Center, Room D

Student affairs professionals can feel the effects of imposter syndrome (IS) at any stage of their career. This program aims to identify the signs of imposter syndrome and discuss ways to dismantle negative thinking cycles. Participants will also brainstorm ways to kick Imposter Syndrome to the curb at any career level!

Facilitators: Kaitlin Cicchetti, University Life Advancement
Location: Johnson Center, Room E

A growing number of colleges and universities have started to focus on fundraising for student affairs, raising money for everything from mental health and basic needs resources to scholarships that support contemporary college students. Student affairs professionals of all levels play an important role in furthering their division’s fundraising goals. This session will cover the fundamentals of advancement to encourage participation and partnership in raising money for student success.

Facilitators: Alexander Harrison and Adam Moore, Counseling and Psychological Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room F

Join us for a comprehensive session tailored for university staff seeking to support students on the autism spectrum. Explore strategies for fostering inclusivity, providing personalized support, and establishing meaningful connections to empower neurodivergent students. Learn about available resources and effective approaches to enhance their academic success. Gain valuable insights and practical tools for creating a supportive environment for students with autism in the university setting.

Facilitators: Brent Ericson, Office of Student Conduct
Location: Johnson Center, Room G

This session will explore the concept of Restorative Justice in student conduct proceedings. As an alternative to a traditional hearing, this process allows a student who has caused harm to the campus community to repay the harm in a facilitated dialogue with those impacted by the harm. While historically rooted as a traditional method of resolution, this method is gaining popularity n K-12 and higher education conduct and conflict management.

Facilitators:
Nikki Harris, Student Success Coaching
Kelly Schrum, Higher Education Program
Dr. Graziella Pagliarulo McCarron, School of Integrative Studies
Erin Fay
Victoria Barrett,
Mario Osorio-Ferrufino

Location: Johnson Center, Room A

Imagine a world in which students can learn to navigate campus resources and develop a sense of belonging from day one! Augmented Reality (AR) has the potential to revolutionize higher education’s support services. This session unveils a game-changer! Join us as we explore how AR can become a powerful asset in Mason’s student affairs toolkit.

Facilitators: Matt McLaughlin, Contemporary Student Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room B

Contemporary Student Peer Mentors at Mason have positively impacted the lives of the university's contemporary student communities. The opt-in mentorship model is guided by research-backed learning outcomes, strong relationship-building within the community, and student perspectives. Participants will learn about the Contemporary Student Mentorship Program including planning, curriculum, student mentor training, and the outcomes in its first year.

Facilitators: Rebecca Mattern, Student Success Coaching and Laura Winkler, University Career Services
Location: Johnson Center, Room C

Did you know that career well-being has the biggest influence on our happiness out of the five well-being elements? Individuals with strong career well-being have higher work engagement and are twice as likely to thrive in life overall, yet its impact is often underestimated. Join our presentation to assess and strengthen your career well-being, leading to increased happiness and more fulfilling experiences at Mason and beyond.

Facilitators: Erikca Brown, Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Location: Johnson Center, Room D

This interactive session explores intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects of Compassionate Conversations, equipping participants, and organizations with skills for constructive dialogue. It emphasizes cross-cultural communication through authentic exchanges, fostering understanding, collaboration, celebrating differences, identifying shared values, and addressing shared needs.

Facilitators: Tisheika Snow and Lauren Kaplan, Student Involvement
Location: Johnson Center, Room E

Has “sense of belonging” become a buzz-phrase in student affairs? What does it mean when we say “sense of belonging” at Mason? In this session we will break down "belonging", review data and application, and discuss its relation to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Facilitators:
Vicki Dominick, Learning Services
Mary Crowe, College of Science
Dr. Anthony Dyer Hoefer, Honors College

Location: Johnson Center, Room F

The Undergraduate Learning Support Task Force was formed in Spring 2024 to understand the most pressing learning needs of our undergraduate students. During this session the task force will share initial findings about the learning needs of Mason students, the learning supports currently in place at Mason, best practices at other institutions, and recommendations to meet the needs of our undergraduate student body. In addition, the task force will share information about the Knack tutoring pilot

Facilitators: Jennifer De La Rosa, University Life Marketing Communications
Location: Johnson Center, Room G

Everyone knows that events need good marketing, but not all programmers know how to plan with intentional marketing in mind. This session will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to planning an event with intentional marketing efforts in mind. Learn about what the lifecycle of an event marketing plan should entail, and how to leverage it for success in the planning and execution of your campus special events.

Facilitators: Supervision Collective

• Louise Higgins- Student Success Coaching, Learning Services, and Contemporary Student Services
• Sarah Atif- Office of Ombudsperson
• Kelly Meehan- Student Centers
• Dennis Kisielewski- Mason Recreation
• Kim Dao-Catlin- Disability Services
• Rachel Lindsey- University Career Services

Location: Johnson Center, George's

How did 100% become too little and what does it mean for our work? What is the impact on staff motivation if they feel pressured to give the unreachable 110%? During this interactive program participants discuss the implications exaggerated remarks about performance can have on employee productivity and morale. Attendees will examine how to provide equitable support while maintaining well-being for staff members, especially those that work non-traditional hours.