TABLE OF CONTENTS
the
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the ACUI Region VII Newsletter, where I hope you’ll find everything you need to stay up to date on the happenings of Region VII. If you’re a seasoned ACUI Veteran, I hope you continue to find the community, connections, and development you’ve known for years. If you’re new to ACUI, I hope you, like me, realize how great of a family ACUI and Region VII can be in supporting your personal and professional development.
Inside this issue you’ll learn about signature Region VII program, Grad & Grow, a new program, Next Steps, learn critical information about the Regional Conference in November and meet our current iteration of the Regional Leadership Team!
In Campus Community, Zac Lomas
Updates From the Regional Director
Chrissie Taylor
Regional Director
Rutgers University - Camden
Hey Party People!
Can you believe it’s the end of summer already? As we wrap up these sunny months, I’m reflecting on the incredible programs we shared together. From hosting our very first Next Steps one-day conference at Montclair State University to gathering at Rowan University for our 4th Grad & Grow Institute, I’m reenergized and excited for the work ahead in Region VII! Opportunities like these remind me how powerful it is when our region comes together to learn, grow, and yes have some fun along the way.
Before the hustle of the semester fully takes over, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the amazing work you’re doing. Step away from your desk for lunch, take a few deep breaths in the morning, and make space to recharge We can only serve our students, teammates, and this region when we take care of ourselves first
And of course don’t forget to get involved! Join our book club, register for our Regional Conference, and be part of the moments that will inspire and energize us all for the year ahead.
Even though we’re heading into our busy season, the excitement doesn’t stop here there’s still time to help shape what comes next! The call for education session proposals for our Regional Conference is open, and your insights could be exactly what our members are looking for Whether you’ve launched a new project, developed a creative approach, or want to present alongside a colleague, I encourage you to submit your proposal and share your voice. We want to hear from you!
Chrissie Taylor Region VII Director
RegionalConference F.A.Q.
While many of us are deep in the throes of what it means to be a student affairs professional in August, November is coming sooner than we think, so check out the information below to make sure you’re prepared for the Region VII Conference, November 13-15 at Montclair State University!
Registration & Registration & Lodging Lodging
Regular Registration
(Now – October 22)
Professional Member: $300
Professional Nonmember: $375
Student Member: $210
Student Nonmember: $310
Retiree: $175
Late Registration (October 19 – November 1)
Professional Member: $350
Professional Nonmember: $425
Student Member: $250
Student Nonmember: $350
Retiree: $175
One Day Registration (Members & NonMembers)
$200 for All Attendees
There will be no official hotel block for this year’s regional conference, but the following are options near our conference site that have been selected by the Conference Planning Team and fit a variety of budget options. We encourage everyone to do their research and find one that meets their institutional needs.
Wyndham Garden Totowa (Closest) One Route 46 West Totowa, NJ 07512 (973) 785-9000
Best WesternFairfield
Executive Inn 216 US Highway 46 Fairfield, NJ 07004 (973) 575-7700
Hampton Inn and Suites 118 US Highway 46 Fairfield, NJ 07004 973-575-5777
LaQuinta Inn & Suites
265 Route 3 East Clifton, NJ 07014 973-778-6500
Educational Sessions Educational Sessions
Courtyard
Wayne Fairfield 263 US-46 Wayne, NJ 07470 973-646-3377
Are you doing meaningful work that brings people together? Have you led programs, research, or initiatives that have sparked collaboration or made an impact on your campus? This is your moment to share your insights with Region VII.
This year’s conference theme “Together We Fit: Connecting Ideas and Creating Change” is a chance for you to share your experiences and knowledge We’re looking for professionals and students alike to lead engaging, thought-provoking workshops on areas such as collaboration across different divisions and offices, supervision from a grad student’s perspective, marketing to a new generation, creating initiatives to build and create a positive campus culture, innovative ways to train students, and many more
You can pick from 4 different education workshop formats. There is Traditional (60 minutes), Flash skills (25-30 minutes), Extended Learning (More than 60), or Conversession (facilitated conversation on the proposed topic). You have the knowledge and now it’s time to share it with your Region VII colleagues!
Education Session submissions are now open and can be submitted here! Please consider sharing your knowledge with your peers. The due date for submissions is September 15, 2025.
Student Leader Pathway Student Leader Pathway Program Program
Region VII is excited to introduce the Student Leader Pathway Program at this year’s regional conference! This program is tailored to support and guide our undergraduate student attendees throughout the conference and provide a pathway for them to learn the nuances of ACUI, network with peers, and gain leadership skills they can apply to their own specific goals. This program will be intertwined with the rest of the conference schedule to maximize their conference experience Every undergraduate student registered for the conference will be automatically enrolled in this program and will be recognized upon completion with a certificate.
Scholarships Scholarships
Applications for scholarships to attend the 2025 Regional Conference are open and will be accepted until Sunday, August 31, at 11:59 pm. They will then be reviewed, and approval will be given on a case-by-case basis Scholarship recipients will be notified by email no later than Friday, September 19 Apply here!
Meetthe2025Regional LeadershipTeam
ChrissieTaylor(she/her/hers)
Regional Director
Rutgers University - Camden
Wanted to go to clown college as a kid.
SerafinaGenise(She/Her/Hers)
2025 REGIONAL CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Once won a hula hoop contest at a street fair!
MustafaSabuur(He/Him/His)
2026 REGIONAL CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
Rutgers University - Camden
Has run a marathon!
AdamBurgman(He/Him/His)
Business Manager
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University
Is a huge Knicks fan and Comic Book geek! Let's talk!
ZacLomas(He/Him/His)
Communications Coordinator
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Once won an all expenses paid trip to the Super Bowl.
DominicHannon(He/Him/His)
Communications Coordinator Daemen University
Has seen the Dave Matthews Band over 30 times across five different states!
EvanWeisberg(He/Him/His)
Recognition Coordinator
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Used to model Halloween costumes as a child!
EddieSeavers(He/Him/His
Inclusivity Coordinator
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Has run 14 marathons. Trying to figure out when and where #15 will be!
AntonioTalamo(He/Him/His)
Educational Programs Coordinator
Montclair State University
Is a huge sports fan and loves to cook!
SidraHabal(She/Her/Hers)
Educational Programs Coordinator
Montclair State University
Was once tricked into riding a camel at the pyramids in Egypt.
LawrenceOwens(He/Him/His)
Membership Experience Coordinator
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Recently became a cat dad!
RyanGillen(He/Him/His)
Membership Experience Coordinator
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Can draw a world map from memory!
AngelicaMartinez(She/They)
Student Involvement Coordinator
The New School
In their free time you'll find them on their PC playing mes - She’s built seven (ironically) of them herself!
Chacon-Perez(She/Her/Hers)
Student Member
Montclair State University
Master’s Degree in Sustainability Science!
SophiaParra(She/Her/Hers)
Student Member
Rutgers University - New Brunswick
Has met a majority of the current Dancing With The Stars professional dancers!
RootedinConnections, ReachingforGrowth
The 2025 ACUI Region VII Grad & Grow Institute brought together graduate students, supervisors, and higher education professionals for a day of learning, networking, and reflection. This year’s institute was the fourth iteration of the Region’s signature program.
While the event is unique to Region VII, it drew interest beyond its borders. Tori Vacca, Assistant Director of First Year Programs at Sacred Heart University and a member of ACUI Region VIII, made the trip to join the experience with a group of professional staff and graduate members, led by former Region VII volunteer Megan Waldrop.
For both Marc Zamora, the current graduate assistant for Sykes Student Union at West Chester University of Pennsylvania and a second-year graduate student studying applied statistics, and Tori, the day proved to be both informative and affirming of their roles and career paths in higher education.
Marc will soon begin direct supervision of staff, so the conference provided practical takeaways he can apply immediately.
“The idea of micro meetings with your staff seems like a great way to stay up to date and ensure their success,” he shared. A session on the interviewing process offered strategies to improve his chances of finding a career in higher education, while a presentation on navigating the job search reminded him that “the application process is not always linear” and adaptability is key.
Vacca focusing during the Grad & Grow opening keynote session
RootedinConnections, ReachingforGrowth
The event also fostered valuable peerto-peer connections. Marc recalled meeting a fellow graduate assistant who supervises graphic designers something he will begin doing next semester.
“She was able to give me techniques and advice on how to get started, and we shared contact information to hopefully keep that back-and-forth flow of information going.”
“Above all, Marc was struck by the atmosphere of encouragement.
“Everybody there is not only willing to help you succeed . . . but also excited to help you succeed. That cemented in my mind that this is the career path for me.”
For Tori, attending from Region VIII was an opportunity to gain fresh perspective on supervising graduate assistants, allowing her to recalibrate her expectations and approach.
“I think I walked out with a lighter perspective on supervising a grad.
Having been a grad myself just a few years back, I put a lot of pressure on myself to be sure that my GA has a wonderful experience, and if they don’t, I really internalize how I could have done better or more for them. While I will always continue to want the best experience I can provide for them, I felt less pressure on making sure I could be everything for them all at once. It helped to recenter my perspective on the development aspect of it all—for both the grad and me ”
Vacca also embraced the conference’s reminder that growth comes from flexibility and encourages future attendees to embody that growth mindset.
“I think the best way to go into the experience is with an open mind, recognizing that just because you have done things a certain way does not make them the only way they can be done. Be open to ideas that may feel uncomfortable for you to try because that is where growth happens for both yourself and the grad you are supervising.”
Lauren Kuski, of Rowan University, presents during the supervisor track of the Grad & Grow Institute, hosted by Rowan University
Zamora participating in a volunteer service project at the 2024 Regional Conference at West Chester University
Hearing from other professionals further affirmed her approach.
“It really is mutually beneficial and should be approached as two people responsible for an individual’s development not just the supervisor,” she reflected.
“There will be times when you have to pivot and that is not necessarily a poor reflection of you Things ebb and flow ”
A conversation on recruitment strategies sparked new ideas for Vaca’s office and gave her takeaways to bring back to her practice.
“While our office has a flushed-out mission statement, the idea of displaying that physically in the space resonated with me . . . to not only hold myself accountable, but also the graduate assistant, as they are learning and going about their day-to-day.”
Both Marc and Tori left Grad & Grow with renewed motivation Marc with a drive to strengthen his skills and connections before entering the job market, and Tori with
actionable ideas and a refreshed mindset for fostering development in her team.
As Marc summed up:
“It can be hard, but walking up to someone and just talking is worth it…you never know which person you meet will change your life.”
Attendees check in to the 4 Annual Grad & Grow Institute th
Ashley Davis, Assistant Director of Event Services at Rowan University, and member of the 2024 Grad & Grow Institute Planning Committee
FindingBalance&Building Communityinthe2025Next StepsConference
When Jack Nesmith, Coordinator of Student Activities at Ramapo College, attended the inaugural ACUI Region VII Next Steps Conference, he walked away with more than just a notebook full of ideas. Nesmith left with a renewed purpose, meaningful connections, and a vision for the future of his leadership in higher education.
“All of the sessions from the ACUI Next Steps Conference were amazing,” Jack reflected. “Each one was tied to the theme of ACUI and the impact of leadership skills as a midlevel professional.” Across five sessions and countless peer-to-peer conversations, he found himself reflecting on leadership styles, boundaries, and the power of community.
One session, in particular, left a lasting impression: The Unbothered Admin: Navigating Your Wellness as Your Career Elevates, presented by Jeffrey Dessources
“Jeff did a fantastic job… he talked about wellness, leadership, and community building not just to perform excellently as a professional, but to create a community that fosters leadership and positive boundaries,” Jack said.
“It made me think back on my own journey from graduate school to my first role to where I am now about the importance of setting positive leadership styles for myself and for my student staff ”
Nesmith networking with colleagues during a portion of the Next Steps conference
However, the conference wasn’t just about sessions, but about people.
Jack reconnected with familiar faces, including three of the five presenters, and took time to thank them personally. “Talking to them in person and experiencing their sessions gave me reflections to take into my next steps this year,” he shared. “During breaks, I asked them how they reached their levels of success as Directors and Vice Presidents, which led to some meaningful conversations.”
His table group became a mini support network, exchanging ideas, cheering each other on after sessions, and even connecting on LinkedIn to keep the momentum going.
Other sessions also shaped his thinking, especially The VSPA Playbook with Dr. Dawn Meza Soufleris. “Hearing about the importance of relationship building, applied knowledge, and professional development as a VP was a highlight,” he recalled. “From this and the other topics, I was able to set goals for the upcoming fall semester to support my growth and leadership.”
For Jack, a pivotal moment of validation came again from Jeffrey Dessources’ talk on being “unbothered.”
“He spoke about effective leadership and setting healthy boundaries while having empowering and respectful conversations. As a VP, I admired his authentic leadership and studentfocused approach,” Jack said.
“As a professional of color, seeing someone model strong leadership while building community resonated deeply with me.”
When asked what advice he would give to future attendees, Jack didn’t hesitate: “Remember the impact you have as a midlevel professional.
Imposter Syndrome can affect your mood or confidence, but like the conference theme says: ‘you got this!’ Your talent and passion for success will be noticed. Let it shine, and help others along the way.”
For Jack Nesmith, the inaugural Next Steps Conference wasn’t just an event, it was a reminder of the balance between professional excellence and personal wellness, the value of authentic leadership, and the importance of building a community that supports success at every level.
Dr Dawn Meza Soufleris, Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life at Montclair State University, giving her session: The VPSA Playbook
Nesmith engaging with session presenter Jeffrey Dessources, Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at New Jersey City University
Call for Awards Submissions
Consider Nominating a Peer Today!
Our work is often thankless - countless hours spent answering emails, working late night or early morning events, and stretching budgets to “make it work” - but it doesn’t have to be completely thankless!
We all know someone, maybe even ourselves, who has gone above and beyond in the past year in their role with either their institution or with ACUI or both! So, consider nominating them for an ACUI award, as submissions are now open for ACUI-wide awards and more information regarding Regional Awards will be coming shortly.
To nominate someone for an ACUI-wide award, please visit: https://acui.org/awards/ for information about awards and the form to submit.
Dr Phillip Smith of Rutgers University - New Brunswick, winner of the 2025 Revis A. Cox Memorial Award
EducationConnection
A Snapshot of Summer
Well, Region VII, this summer’s programs were a resounding success!
The inaugural Next Steps Conference at Montclair State University was a lively day full of learning and networking. We had an amazing time working with the team to bring the day together. There was lots of learning and networking, but also plenty of bonding, talking, and laughing. It is always wonderful to see how much we can all relate to one another, no matter what campus we are on.
Our 4th annual Grad & Grow at Rowan University went absolutely incredibly as well! Graduate Students and their supervisors gathered from all across the region and beyond to mix, mingle, and sharpen their skills before the start of the academic year. It was amazing to get together with so many familiar faces and to bring new ones into the fold. We had a truly fantastic day, with leadership seminars, career hour, and fun ice breakers, plus we got to look around their beautiful Student Center! And, the fire alarms only went off once, which we are counting as a win. (Just a normal day at the office, am I right?)
Now, we are taking a breather before the official start of the semester, and gearing up for Regional in November, taking place at Montclair State University. If anyone is interested in being on the committees for next year’s Next Steps or Grad & Grow, please reach out to us - we would love to have you on the team!
Your Education Coordinators, Antonio Talamo (talamoa@montclair.edu) and Sidra Habal (habals@montclair.edu)
Upcoming Region
VII Educational Programs
Region VII Conference
November 13-15
Montclair State University
More Information Here
Antonio Talamo
Sidra Habal
SpotlightonVII
Rowan University has unveiled its much-anticipated Student Center expansion, a 31,000-square-foot addition to the existing Chamberlain Student Center, marking a bold step in enhancing campus life for its 23,000-plus students. Originally built in 1974 to serve just 6,000 students, the facility has long been the busiest building on campus, welcoming more than one million visits annually.
Designed by ikon 5 architects of New York, the expan i embraces the concept of a Greek “agora,” or central g place, featuring open, light-filled spaces that promot connection, collaboration, and creativity. The centerp grand central staircase with multiple landings for info gatherings, flanked by inviting lounges, two gas firep a glass facade that floods interiors with natural light framing views of nearby campus landmarks
New amenities include a Saxbys café, a Student Gove Association suite, collaborative workspaces for stude organizations, a demonstration area for interdisciplin showcases, an amphitheater, and multiple meeting r varying sizes
The expansion also introduces a 150-person event sp n systems, along with smart meeting rooms and digital signage to support modern campus activities.
Students played an integral role in shaping the design, participating in focus groups and advisory committees to ensure the project reflected their needs. Sustainability was prioritized through smart lighting and climate controls, and the architecture draws inspiration from South Jersey’s Pine Barrens, integrating natural materials and biophilic design elements.
Financed through a $26 4 million USDA low-interest loan, university capital funds, and contributions from Gourmet Dining, the project stands as a testament to Rowan’s commitment to fostering community With its flexible spaces, upgraded amenities, and inviting atmosphere, the Student Center expansion is more than just a building; it’s the dynamic heart of campus life for years to come.
RegionVIIRising: StudentSpotlights
Angela Castro is a recent graduate of Montclair State University where she was highly involved on campus. She held several leadership positions including Secretary, Dean of Recruitment, and President of Omega Phi Chi Multicultural Sorority Inc. Angela also served as the Latin Education Chair, Secretary, and Vice President of the Latin American Student Organization (LASO). In addition, she was the Social Media Chair for Tri-Alpha, the National Honor Society for FirstGeneration College Students.
Angela contributed to campus life through her engagement on the Commuter Student Advisory Board and participation in the Future Student Affairs Professionals Program She also mentored and supported first-year and transfer students through the Office of Commuter Life's Commuter Assistance Mentorship Program (CAMP).
In recognition of her dedication and contributions to student life, she was awarded Outstanding Undergraduate Student at the 2024 ACUI Region VII Conference
Driven by a passion for Higher Education and Student Affairs, Angela is continuing her studies at Rowan University this Fall and now serves as the Graduate Coordinator for Rowan After Hours and Special Events."
Angela Castro (she/her)
We understand that sometimes folks in ACUI use acronyms or terms that not all members are familiar with. While we try our hardest to avoid this, you still may hear these terms and phrases and not be sure what they mean. To help everyone stay in-theknow, here is a glossary of commonly used ACUI acronyms or terms that you may hear in the future.
ACUI - The abbreviation for Association of College Unions International Annual Conference - Association-wide meeting held each year
Board of Trustees - Volunteers that work on determining and advancing strategic directions, governing over long-term goals, representing the association to other members, and setting the tone for member experience
The Bulletin - ACUI’s online member magazine
CAS - Council for the Advancement of Standards
CO - Central Office
Community of Practice - A term referring to networks of members that share a common interest.
CPT - Conference Planning Team (team planning Regional conferences or could refer to Conference Program Team (team planning annual Conference)
ERF - Education and Research Fund
ILEAD® - Institute for Leadership Education and Development, I-LEAD® is ACUI’s premier student program, designed to emphasize the key concept areas of leadership, community development, and change
IPDS - IPDS: New Professionals Orientation is an introduction to the profession that offers ample idea sharing, discussion of theory and skills, and opportunities to network
RD - Regional Director Regional directors serve as the chief administrator of their region, representing regional activities to other ACUI leaders and members.
Region VII - ACUI is broken down into eight separate regions that cover the globe. Region VII is made up of Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland , New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Quebec.
RLT - Regional Leadership Team
VDT - Volunteer Development Team
Wanttobefeaturedinthe NewsletteroronSocialMedia?
As communication coordinators, Dom Hannon and I, have a goal to consistently provide our Region VII members with content about our members, events, student unions, and more.
However, we can’t do that without you! Our members are the lifeblood of our Region and so we want to hear your stories, your successes, see your building, and more. To be featured just fill out our content form which can be found by scanning the QR code on this page.
We can’t wait to hear from you!
-Zac Lomas