2021 SDI Program Booklet - Virtual [Archives]

Committee Welcome

On behalf of the planning committee, we welcome you to the 8th Annual Student Development Institute (SDI) virtual experience. This will be an exceptional event and we hope you join us in making this first-ever virtual SDI memorable.

The conference committee has planned a two-day program that will provide educational sessions and a ton of resources - all through our host platform, Accelevents. If you run into any challenges, visit the virtual help desk, we’ve got you. Please use this program book to help guide you for a successful conference. We also encourage you to use a conference background and to test your camera and audio so that you do not miss a beat!

Our guest keynote speaker, Raven Solomon, is a national speaker, author, and multigenerational leadership expert who delivers insightful and impactful keynote presentations. Raven’s session on the Main Stage on Thursday is guaranteed to leave you motivated and inspired to take your campus visit program to the next level.

Networking opportunities, hot topic discussions, and breakout groups will take place throughout the conference. We encourage you to engage in these meaningful dialogues, and share ideas and resources. Although we cannot hug or shake hands in person, we can still make connections that will support us until we can meet again. We encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and use our built-in conference opportunities to connect with new friends!

To put a conference of this magnitude together is no small feat. I would like to thank the planning committee, who worked extremely hard on every detail and important aspects of SDI. Their dedication, creativity, and innovation is the foundation of this conference and is truly remarkable!

We’re so excited that you could venture with us through this digitally charged experience. We know this will be an SDI like none before and we’re glad you’re journeying with us!

Ashley Bair Conference Chair, University of Maryland

2021 Planning Committee

Education and Programming

Veronica Marin, Chair

University of Maryland, College Park

Kanani Porotesano

Portland State University

Virtual Platforms & Technology

Kelvin Lee, Co-Chair

Stanford University

Jayne Reimel, Co-Chair

University of California, Santa Barbara

Welcome and Volunteers

Nicholas Conlin, Chair

Humboldt State University

Lena Korn-Clark

Cal State East Bay

Publicity and Promotions

Tiana Hakimzadeh, Chair

American University

Spirit and Traditions

Maggie Keene, Chair

University of Tennessee

Our Thanks

The 2021 Student Development Institute Planning Committee would like to thank two very important people for their support in planning and executing this event.

Lindsey Darling, Event Coordinator, and Jen McGowan, Association Manager, have been vital to the success of 2021 SDI. Our committee wholeheartedly says - THANK YOU!

CIVSA President’s Welcome

Hello Students and Visit Professionals,

On behalf of the Collegiate Information and Visitor Services Association (CIVSA), I’d like to welcome you to the 8th Annual Student Development Institute (SDI). While I know that we have all experienced a very different year –I am excited that we are all still able to come together to share ideas and re-energize one another for a busy season ahead. I hope that you are able to make new friends and broaden your CIVSA family to empower you to deliver the best possible visit experience this spring.

CIVSA serves as the industry standard for higher education professionals in the field of information and visitor services and we are so excited to have a conference focused on the part of our institutions that matters the most – our students.

With over 700 people representing 110+ institutions, this conference is the largest ever Student Development Institute and the first ever fully-virtual conference CIVSA has hosted. Hosting a conference of this size takes countless hours of work and coordination, and I want to send a huge thank to the SDI Conference Chair, Ashley Bair, from the University of Maryland as well as the entire conference committee for their hard work and dedication in bringing this event together.

When you ask someone what they value most about CIVSA – you often hear that it is connections you are able to make with colleagues from across the country to share ideas and best practices. SDI is no exception – and I challenge each of you to make the most of your conference experience and form relationships that will last well beyond these two days. I hope you will find ways to connect with one another as you attend sessions and small group meetings to find ideas you can take back to your institution to adapt and use in your program.

Thank you for starting 2021 with CIVSA and the Student Development Institute. We are excited to have you join us.

Wes Sullivan

CIVSA President, California Lutheran University

Navigating Accelevents

As an attendee, you will need to sign in with the email used to register you for the Student Development Institute, as this is the email to which your ticket is connected. Once you have entered the event, you can start participating in the activities. Accelevents has also provided a lot of helpful documentation to assist you in learning to navigate the event platform

Important Notes:

• Chrome is the preferred browser to access the event page, virtual event hub, and backstage studio (for presenters)

• You will be able to enter the event 30 minutes before the first session starts (Januar y 7, 2020 at 10:00am ET / 7:00am PT)

To enter the event:

• Access the event page on your browser. You can check the confirmation email that is sent to you and click the Join The Event button to be redirected to the event page.

• Click the Enter Event button to enter the virtual event hub (more on this further down). The button should be visible 30 minutes before the start of the first session. If it’s not there yet, you’re early!

• Enter the email address used to register for your account. If it’s your first time logging in, you will need to create a password. After clicking Submit, you should be redirected to the virtual event hub.

If you’re having a hard time logging in or joining the sessions, here are some tips:

• Use the recommended browser (Chrome)

• Make sure that your browser is up to date

• Refresh your page or restart your device

• Clear your browser’s cache

• Access the page in an incognito window

• Check your internet connection/speed (should be at least 5 mbs)

• Enable the camera and microphone in your browser

• Enable pop-ups in your browser

• Disable any firewalls or VPNs

Navigating Accelevents

The virtual event hub is where the virtual event takes place, and it’s what you will see after you click the Enter Event button from the event page. This screen has 3 areas:

• Navigation Menu

• Activity Area

• Chat Area

The Navigation Menu

This shows you all the available sections in the event. If you’re a speaker, you can also see a list of talks you are involved in.

Lobby

This is what you see when you first enter the virtual event hub. It displays the event feed, agenda, info desk, photo booth, and attending schools.

Main Stage

This is where presentations intended for all conference attendees will take place (including the conference welcome, keynote speakers, and closing session).

Educational Sessions

This is where all the educational sessions are listed. You can search based on what topics you’re interested in learning more about or by the designated session tracks. All you need to do is to click Join to enter the session.

Virtual Help Desk | Zoom Meeting ID: 83691861422

We’re here to help you navigate SDI, get in contact with folks at Accelevents, and answer any general questions you might have. The help desk will be open from 9:30am until 6:00pm on both days of SDI and can also be accessed through the Info Desk in the Accelevents Lobby. Questions will be answered in the order received and we look forward to helping you as soon as possible.

Navigating Accelevents

The Navigation Menu (continued)

CIVSA Connections

This is where you will be able to join your CIVSA Connections group. These Connections groups will remain open throughout the duration of the conference, so you can continue the conversation even after the designated time for discussion has ended.

Hot Topics

This is where you will find all of the Hot Topic discussion sessions. These sessions allow speakers and attendees to be on camera and heard over microphone at the same time. There can be up to 16 people on camera at the same time, but each session can accommodate up to 250 people total. The first 16 to turn their cameras on will be the first ones on screen.

Networking

This is where you will find the 1:1 networking sessions. When you join these sessions, you will be paired up 1:1 with another attendee for a few minutes through a live video call. You’ll be paired up again with another attendee once the allotted time has expired, and so on and so forth until the end of the total time for the networking session (much like in a speed dating scenario).

Film Festival

This is where you will be able to watch all the submissions to the 2021 SDI Film Festival.

People

This is where you can find a list of all attendees and view their profiles. You can request to be connected (like a friend request), send them a direct message, request for a meeting, and have a video call during your meeting. This is a great way to build further on connections you make during educational and networking sessions.

My Talks

This tab is only visible to you if you are a speaker. You’ll be able to see your session(s) and access the backstage link for broadcasting your live session. If you submitted a pre-recorded educational session, there will be no backstage area, but you will still be able to engage with attendees via chat and Q&A.

Virtual Backgrounds

Learn how to use CIVSA SDI Virtual Backgrounds in Accelevents. More information is available here.

Navigating Accelevents

The Activity Area

This is the center of the virtual event hub; what you see depends on which tab you’re accessing in the navigation menu. At the top, you’ll see three buttons, no matter where you are in the virtual event hub.

Calendar

This is where all your appointments will be located. If you set meetings with other attendees, you’ll be able to start your meeting from there.

Notifications

If someone requests a meeting or requests to be connected with you, you’ll see a notification badge.

Profile

This is where you can add your profile picture and other information. You can set whether you want people to send you direct messages or not.

The Chat Area

This is where you can type your public messages. The chat rooms change depending on where you are. If you’re in an educational session, you’ll see more options for polls and Q&A as well.

• The members number at the top of the chat indicates how many people are currently in the virtual event hub (regardless of which tab they’re in).

• The online number at the bottom of the chat refers to the number of people who are currently online in the same part of the virtual event hub as you.

• The gear icon allows you to enable pop up and sound notifications when receiving chat messages.

• The left arrow lets you navigate to other chat rooms (such as from previous education sessions or main stage sessions) and see your direct messages.

2021 SDI Attending Institutions

Agnes Scott College

Albion College

American University

Anne Arundel Community College

Arizona State University

Arkansas State University

Bemidji State University

Bentley University

Berry College

Bloomsburg University of PA

Bluffton University

Boise State University

Bryant University

Bucknell University

Buena Vista University

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Cal State Northridge

California Lutheran University

California State University, Channel

Islands

California State University, San

Bernardino

Carlow University

Carnegie Mellon University

Chadron State College

Clemson University

Coastal Carolina University

Colorado State University Online

Colorado State University Pueblo

CSU Dominguez Hills

CU Denver

Eastern Michigan University

Florida International University

Florida Southern College

George Mason University

Georgia Gwinnett College

Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Southern University

Georgia State University

Gustavus Adolphus College

Hanover College

Hofstra University

Illinois Institute of Technology

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

IUPUI

James Madison University

Lander University

Lasell University

Lawrence Technological University

Lees-McRae College

Lenoir-Rhyne University

Louisiana State University

Mercer University

Middle Tennessee State University

MiraCosta College

Moravian College

New York University

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University

Oglethorpe University

Pace University

Penn State University

Portland State University

Presbyterian College

Princeton University

Randolph-Macon College

Rider University

Sacred Heart University

Saint Francis University

Sam Houston State University

South Texas College

St. Francis College

St. John’s University

St. Joseph’s College-New York

St. Mary’s College of Maryland

St. Thomas University

Suffolk University

Susquehanna University

Texas A&M - Commerce

Texas A&M University

Texas Tech University

The Evergreen State College

The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University at Marion

The University of British Columbia

The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

The University of Tulsa

Troy University

Truman State University

UC Santa Barbara

UNC Greensboro

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)

University of Arizona

University of California, Irvine

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

University of Colorado Boulder

University of Evansville

University of Georgia

University of Houston

University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign, Gies College of Business

University of Kentucky

University of Maryland

University of Minnesota Rochester

University of Missouri

University of Missouri - St. Louis

University of Nevada, Reno

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

University of Pittsburgh

University of Redlands

University of South Carolina

University of St. Francis

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

University of Texas at Arlington

University of Washington Tacoma

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Valencia College

Valparaiso University

Wabash College

West Virginia University

Western Washington University

Whittier College

Wichita State University

Willamette University

Wingate University

SDI All-Stars & Awards

All Award Opportunities and Nomination Forms can be found at the Info Desk which can be accessed from the Accelevents Lobby!

SDI All-Star Awards

The CIVSA SDI All-Star Awards were modeled after the Association’s “Foot Awards” given Annual Conference to recognize outstanding attendees who have “left their footprint” or in this case “shined brightly” during the event. Only student attendees are eligible to be nominated, and can be nominated by any attendee of SDI - including advisors and students. All nominations will be considered, recipients will be selected by the Student Development Committee, and announced at the conclusion of SDI.

Nominees can be considered for any reason, including but not limited to: providing a great educational session, being a leader amongst peers, helping others, showing great potential, and exhibiting passion for the field of information and visitor services. You are unable to nominate yourself, or someone from your institution. All nominations must be received by 12pm EST on Friday, January 8.

Nominate your SDI All-Star here

Film Festival

This year’s Film Festival will take place throughout both days of SDI. Be sure to watch every film because this year’s winner will be selected by people’s choice! The theme of this year’s Film Festival is “Historical Reenactment.” Film submissions must meet the theme by displaying the school’s unique events, history, or traditions. University-produced admissions/recruitment videos are prohibited. All votes must be received by 12pm EST on Friday, January 8.

Films submitted can be no longer than 2 minutes in length, and must strictly follow all current COVID-19 guidelines:

• If more than one actor is featured on camera, each actor on camera must be wearing a mask or facial covering that completely covers the mouth and nose.

• Social distance of 6 feet or more must be maintained at all times by all actors on camera.

• No more than 10 actors can be featured on camera at any given time.

Cast your Film Festival vote here

.

Other Awards & Prizes

There are opportunities to get involved before and during SDI. Prizes will be awarded for participating in a wide variety of activities, and trust us, you’ll want to win. This year, we’re giving away amazing prizes such as gift cards for Amazon, Visa, Uber Eats, Spotify and many more!

2021 SDI Schedule

CIVSA Connections

CIVSA Connections Overview : Thursday, January 7 | 4:30 - 5:00 pm

Join an overview to learn more about CIVSA Connections. This session will introduce you to CIVSA Connections - what they are and how they work! In this session you will also be able to find your assigned connections group. If needed, you can also view the CIVSA Connections assignments in the Info Desk which can be accessed from the Lobby. These Connections groups will remain open throughout the duration of the conference, so you can continue the conversation even after the designated time for discussion has ended.

CIVSA Connections Breakout Groups

CIVSA Connections groups serve as a way to network and facilitate conversations across a variety of institutions. Discussion topics will vary and are directed by the group’s communal interests and needs.

CIVSA Connection Breakout Groups 1-3: Thursday, January 7 | 5:00 - 5:20 pm

CIVSA Connection Breakout Groups 4-6: Thursday, January 7 | 5:30 - 5:50 pm

Hot Topic Discussions

During Hot Topics, attendees have the opportunity to discuss some of the most prevalent issues of the field. Discussions will take place in two formats: panel discussions, where attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions to a panel of seasoned veterans from a variety of institutions; and virtual roundtable discussions, where attendees will be able to have a collaborative dialogue about the designated topic. There will be over 20 topics to choose from throughout SDI!

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 1 | Thursday, January 7 | 2:00 - 2:50pm

Incorporating More Voices and Building a More Inclusive Ambassador Program

Track: Advisor

University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA

Institution Size: 20,000 - 30,000 | Public | 100+ Ambassadors | Paid

In our new initiative to promote Diversity Equity and Inclusion within our ambassador community, we have created a student-run standing committee that is working to raise student voices and improve the organizational experience for minoritized students. In this session, we will review how we’ve implemented this initiative and how we continue to support its growth.

Leading Change in an Unpredictable World

Track: Leadership & Professional Development

Wichita State University | Wichita, KS

Institution Size: 10,000 - 20,000 | Public | 70-100 Ambassadors | Paid & Unpaid; Others Volunteer Global pandemic. Social injustice. Campus controversies. Leading change in an unpredictable world can feel like an insurmountable task. Leading a diverse organization itself is challenging. Moving forward with both takes grit. In this session, participants will learn that leadership is mobilizing people to do difficult work and hear how our ambassadors stayed true to our mission and purpose as we responded to requests for statements on Black Lives Matter and other socio-political issues at our institution. We will provide strategies to lead effectively across factions and share how this experience helped us grow and engage better with those we serve.

Sharing Ambassadors’ Experiences Beyond Campus Tours: Implementing and Optimizing a Student Blog Series

Track: Campus Visit Experiences

St. Thomas University | Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada

Institution Size: Under 5,000 | Public | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid Campus visit programs are premised around the notion that current students are one of the most invaluable resources for prospective students and, by extension, admissions and recruitment offices. The pandemic, however, has forced us to leverage current students, their experiences, and their wisdom beyond traditional campus tours. This session will be focused on better facilitating knowledge exchange between current students and prospective students, parents, counselors, and other stakeholders through an ambassador blog series, which complements virtual and in-person tours. Specifically, this session will look at best practices, training, planning, and promotion with regards to implementing new ambassador blog programs and optimizing existent blog programs.

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 1 (continued)

The Importance of Inclusivity on Tours; What are Your Pronouns?

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

James Madison University | Harrisonburg, VA

Institution Size: 10,000 - 20,000 | Public | 100+ Ambassadors | Unpaid

Living in a monumental moment in history, institutions and schools are required to keep up with the progressive changing of times. Tour guides are responsible for knowing inclusive, diverse, and equitable spaces on campus. In order to best serve our prospective students and families, guides should be using inclusive and representative language and narratives on their tours. No prospective student or family should feel excluded on their tour, therefore tour guides should be knowledgeable in all areas of campus to be a resource for those groups on campus. By providing a knowledgeable and inclusive space in Ambassadors, tour guides bring the knowledge onto their tours to best serve their prospective families.

Team Building Virtually: Teammates Making Connections and Bonds

Track: Recruitment & Training

Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA

Institution Size: 10,000 - 20,000 | Private | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid

This session will dive into the importance of team building and relationships, especially in a virtual setting. Knowing who is on staff and creating connections between staff members makes events more fun, engaging, and, overall more successful. However, this task can be especially challenging in a virtual setting. Join this session to learn some ideas, tips, and tricks we have used this fall at Carnegie Mellon University to bolster ambassador relationships and communication!

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 2 | Thursday, January 7 | 3:00 - 3:50pm

Off the Beaten Path: Implementing a Feeling First, Facts Second Campus Tour

Track: Advisor

Bucknell University | Lewisburg, PA

Institution Size: Under 5,000 | Private | 50-70 Ambassadors | Paid

We know our prospective students make decisions based on feelings, rather than facts, so why are our tour guides still reciting stale numbers like square footage or enrollment data instead of sharing stories? At Bucknell University, the Office of Admissions and the Office of Communications teamed up for a total tour route overhaul. After assessing the existing tour route, aligning messaging with the university’s branding goals, and letting feelings pave the way, they were left with a reimagined tour experience driven by storytelling.

Safe Zone Training Session

Track: Leadership & Professional Development

University of Redlands | Redlands, CA

Institution Size: Under 5,000 | Private | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid & Unpaid; Others Volunteer Fostering an environment that is welcoming and safe is a key part of our work as Orientation, Transition and Retention professionals, but it is even more critical for our LGBTQ+ students, student leaders, and professionals. This session will prepare you with the resources and skills needed to serve as an effective ally to your campus and in CIVSA.

Using Student Influencers in a Virtual World

Track: Campus Visit Experiences

Lenoir-Rhyne University | Hickory, NC

Institution Size: Under 5,000 | Private | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid

Struggling to engage prospective students? Learn how we developed a team of student influencers to transform our use of social media through multiple platforms by utilizing current student leadership. Students were able to prepare, organize and execute their own weekly posts and live events to increase prospective student engagement. As social media use increases, strategize and use cost-effective techniques that empower your staff and students.

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 2 (continued)

Emphasizing diversity within a tour guide organization

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

University of Maryland | College Park, MD

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 100+ Ambassadors | Unpaid Maryland Images campus tour guides have rebranded their Selections committee to Diversity & Inclusion in order to emphasize diversity and inclusion within the organization. Come learn what we have learned from our experience as the first year of this new committee, including the initiatives we have put in place, challenges, lessons learned and possible ideas we have for the future. We hope other tour guide organizations can take away something from our new initiatives.

Volunteer Ambassadors: Opportunities and Obstacles

Track: Recruitment & Training

University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 70-100 Ambassadors | Unpaid

Having a volunteer-based program is a major factor of success in serving our guests and university by playing a vital role in recruiting passionate students inspired by positive experiences and the desire to promote their institution. There is a fine line of what you can ask of college students faced with prioritizing commitments regardless if they are paid or volunteer. This session will discuss the benefits and costs of having a volunteer-based ambassador program and explain how and why we use a variety of methods, recognition, professional development and community to motivate our student ambassadors.

Enjoying the Educational Sessions?

Be sure to complete your session evaluations to provide helpful feedback for our presenters for every session you attend.

Complete the Educational Session Evaluation HERE.

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 3 | Friday, January 8 | 11:30am - 12:20pm

Tour Guides got you “shook”? Let’s “spill the tea” on supervising Gen-Z!

Track: Advisor

West Virginia University | Morgantown, WV

Institution Size: 20,000 - 30,000 | Public | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid Generation Z is all about the “vibes”, individualization, and authenticity. At West Virginia University, we believe the best way to reach incoming students is by providing a personalized experience by our current students who can truly show what it’s like to be a Mountaineer. Our guides remember the sense of community they felt on their tour, and credit this as a major reason they chose our university. Our job as their supervisors is to keep that fire “lit” by empowering our Gen Z tour guides to “stay woke” and reach their future Gen Z peers by taking ownership of the visit experience, “no cap”.

Building a Fully Online Ambassador Team

Track: Leadership & Professional Development

Colorado State University Online | Fort Collins, CO

Institution Size: 10,000 - 20,000 | Public | 1-10 Ambassadors | Paid Colorado State University Online was charged to build an ambassador team comprised of online students. With guidance and input from internal and external campus partners, we hired our first CSU Online ambassadors that proudly reside across the world from Germany to Colorado. Over the last couple months, our ambassadors have successfully embarked on a path to build a fully virtual team. We’ve done some neat things so far and have big plans for the future! We hope to connect and share our journey with other groups -- as many of you have inspired us along the way!

Welcome to Our Tour Talk

Track: Campus Visit Experiences

Georgia State University | Atlanta, GA

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid 2020 proved to be a year of challenges, changes, and chances for growth. As our world moved to an online platform, student ambassadors across the nation searched for a way to adapt to a virtual campus. Through Zoom calls and soap shortages, we have worked to create an innovative alternative to in-person tours. Join us as we navigate the virtual campus crisis together and work to take your online campus tour heights above normal standards. Welcome to our Tour Talk.

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 3 (continued)

Integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Into Our Work: UCLA Bruin Ambassador Program

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

University of California, Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid

The Bruin Ambassador Program at UCLA is made up of a team of 40 students who work for Undergraduate Admission. We visit with high school students across the greater Los Angeles area and work with predominantly underserved communities, so especially in light of the recent reinvigorated conversations about race, our program has changed to better serve the populations we work with. By reworking training, integrating guest speakers into our meetings, and fostering weekly conversations about social issues we are actively taking steps forward to be more cognizant of the impact we have with students.

Certification: A Standardized Yet Fluid Approach to Training Tour Guides

Track: Recruitment & Training

The Ohio State University | Columbus, OH

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 50-70 Ambassadors | Paid

At Ohio State we have a six-step certification process that begins after our newly hired guides complete their introductory training. “Certification” is the transitional period between training and solo touring that gradually prepares upcoming guides by giving them actual tour experience to test their skills and knowledge. We accompany each step with peer-guided feedback and mentorship, and although we have a this six-step process, it is highly individualized and tailored. We will give a detailed overview of the structure and flexibility of this rigorous Certification process as it consistently produces prepared, confident tour guides. We will explain how we balance this dichotomy with structure and flexibility and will provide enough detail about this process such that others can adapt this practice in a way that would work for their programs.

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 4 | Friday, January 8 | 12:30 - 1:20pm

Where Admissions and Student Development Intersect: Creating and Managing a Full-Time Internship Program

Track: Advisor

Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 100+ Ambassadors | Paid & Unpaid; Others Volunteer

Learn how Penn State University Park manages a full-time internship program for seniors. Majors in the human services require a full-time internship as a graduation requirement, and at Penn State we have utilized this as a way to offer exposure to the field of enrollment services and higher education. We have at least one full-time intern each semester that works with our campus visits, marketing, and evaluations teams. This presentation will discuss workload management, collaboration across the office, and how to get seniors involved who have no admissions experience. Interns have been remote since COVID, and information on remote internships will also be shared.

Starting the Conversation about Promoting a Positive Office Culture

Track: Leadership & Professional Development

Eastern Michigan University | Ypsilanti, MI

Institution Size: 10,000 - 20,000 | Public | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid

Creating a positive office culture is necessary to improve employee performance and facilitate overall connection as a community. This conversation is something many institutions intend to have but may be unsure how to proceed. We strive to provide opportunities for leadership and development that will inevitably promote that sense of connectedness and positive morale. We will be discussing ways to implement professionalism, motivation, continuing relationships outside of the office, and how our admissions team incorporates these ideas. The final goal is to provide student staff members with the knowledge to start the conversation to create their own positive office culture as soon as tomorrow.

We’re here to help

SDI, get in contact with folks at Accelevents, and answer any general questions you might have. The help desk will be open from 9:30am until 6:00pm on both days of

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 4 (continued)

The Importance of the Hype, How Cal Poly Engages Visitors Virtually

Track: Campus Visit Experiences

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo | San Luis Obispo, CA | Public

Institution Size: 20,000 - 30,000 | 30-50 Ambassadors | Unpaid

Our well-received in-person tours have inspired the ways we’ve been connecting with students since Cal Poly has gone virtual. Come learn how Poly Reps have translated 90 minute campus tours into a fun and lively way to meet visitors from all over. We will share how we use different virtual platforms, various roles for our ambassadors, and small but purposeful engagement tools to enhance our new visit experience. Join us as we explore virtual storytelling, how to get the most out of Zoom Webinar/Meeting functions, strategies for virtual engagement, and what other platforms we are using to facilitate a new tour culture.

Real Talk about Social Justice In Training

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

University of Redlands | Redlands, CA

Institution Size: Under 5,000 | Private | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid & Unpaid; Others Volunteer

This session would dive deep in having “real talk” during training about the current climates we are in and will continue to be in. This will give examples and tips on how to have tough and difficult questions during training week and throughout the year. This session will help those who do not think they can lead these conversations by giving them a blueprint to be comfortable to not only have these conversations, but also lead them.

Being Buds is Being Better

Track: Recruitment & Training

University of Tennessee | Knoxville, TN

Institution Size: 20,000-30,000 | Public | 70-100 Ambassadors | Paid

In this session we will go over the importance of developing community within your program and how it impacts the overall health of your organization. We will discuss practical ways to obtain a strong culture while sharing our experience doing this during unforeseen circumstances (COVID).

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 5 | Friday, January 8| 3:00 - 3:50pm

CIVSA 1.0

Track: Advisor

CIVSA Leadership

Come on – get involved in CIVSA! Not sure where and how to start? This panel of CIVSA veterans, as well as some recently involved members, will share the benefits of their involvement in the association. Learn about the various areas of service and find something tailor made for you! You’ll serve the organization, grow professional, make friends, and have fun!

Leadership Growth Using Perry’s Theory of Intellectual Development

Track: Leadership & Professional Development

University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 100+ Ambassadors | Unpaid

Growing as a leader is important but can be frustrating when you are supervising and leading your peers, some of whom may be good friends. In this session, learn how Perry’s Theory of Intellectual Development can help you grow as a leader, and help you support and challenge your peers in growing and learning as well. Come ready to contribute and share, as the best learning happens when we can share real-life examples and talk through solutions!

Big School Atmosphere, Small School Connections: Personalizing Your Communication & Interactions with Campus Visitors

Track: Campus Visit Experiences

Boise State University | Boise, ID

Institution Size: 20,000 - 30,000 | Public | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid

We want to focus on how small acts of personalization throughout the campus visit experience can make a big campus feel smaller and more approachable. Our intentionality within our pre- and post-tour communication has allowed us to make our potential students feel a part of our community and truly seen as an individual rather than just a number through the admissions process. We will be diving into some more specifics for how we personalize our students’ experience. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Educational Sessions

Educational Sessions 5 (continued)

Boosting Student Engagement through Campus Activism

Track: Diversity & Inclusion

Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Private | 30-50 Ambassadors | Paid & Unpaid; Others Volunteer If you’re like me, you’ve seen the increase in social justice movements on your campus parallel the hard-hitting questions prospective students are asking about support, safety, and equity. As an office, the voices you choose to highlight give an authentic look at the concerns current students hold, providing an engagement opportunity to connect prospective students and current students over the social, political, and cultural issues they care about the most. Which stories you amplify ultimately have an impact on the campus culture you recruit to your university; a culture that should support the student initiatives on campus.

Talk Virtual to Me: Building and Keeping a Team

Track: Recruitment & Training

University of Houston | Houston, TX

Institution Size: 30,000+ | Public | 10-30 Ambassadors | Paid

How do we ensure effective training and communication in this new virtual setting? The UH Ambassadors Leadership Council constructed a well balanced program that trains Ambassadors to be the best versions of themselves. UH Ambassadors go through rigorous self paced and live virtual training and assessments before managing their own tours and presentations. The main challenge we have encountered is the lack of communication in this remote work environment. Learn about the strategies and apps we use to make sure our virtual team is confident, communicative, and productive when working a shift in our program.

Keynote Speaker - Raven Solomon

Raven Solomon is a global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion thought leader and nationally recognized keynote speaker who helps organizations get future-ready by understanding generations, racial equity, and their intersection.

Raven’s mission is simple-- to solve for racial inequity by breaking down generational and racial barriers in the workplace, replacing them with empathy and synergy that fosters productive working relationships, drives business results, and prepares organizations to compete in the not-sodistant future.

She is the author of the 2019 release Leading Your Parents: 25 Rules to Effective Multigenerational Leadership for Millennials and Gen Z, where she shares leadership principles and practical advice for young professionals seeking to transition into leadership positions in today’s diverse workplace, and the founder of the Charlotte-based Center for Next Generation Leadership and Professional Development, a startup focused on providing soft-skill development to the leaders of tomorrow. In her spare time, Raven consults with Franklin Covey, the world leader in leadership development, in the area of unconscious bias.

Raven has helped tens of thousands, from podiums around the world, close the gaps inside of dozens of industry-leading companies, and create sustainable cultural change. She’s also consulted with household brands in the areas of generational diversity & inclusion and early talent development and retention.

As the valedictorian of her college graduating class and one of the youngest-ever executives in the Fortune 50 company with which she spent nearly a decade, she has always shown that her approach to leading and influencing people yields results.

Closing Event with DJ Chris Styles

With over 20 years of DJ experience, Chris Styles has done it all. He began his radio DJ career at HOT 995 in 2003 and was heard every weekend mixing and hosting on the DMV airwaves.

In 2013, Styles took his talents to CBS Radio DC and was heard mixing every week on WPGC 95.5, Fresh 94.7 and El Zol 107.9. Styles was also given the opportunity to showcase his DJ talents nationally through satellite radio.

In 2006, Styles was hired to host the night show on then XM 20 on 20. In 2009, Styles moved over to SirusXM The Heat and was heard every Friday night mixing and hosting “Friday Night Fire.”

Along with his radio commitment, Styles maintains being one of the busiest DJ’s in the DMV with over 100 gigs a year and personally DJing over 50 Weddings a year. From Weddings to Private Parties to athletic events for the University of Maryland, Chris Styles is one of the most versatile DJ’s in the DMV.

About CIVSA

About CIVSA

The CIVSA Mission is to provide knowledge exchange, research and connections in an inviting arena that builds professional and personal relationships. We partner with higher education professionals to set standards of excellence in the field of information and visitor services. We support our dynamic membership of collegiate professionals through every decision made. We seek out all avenues to strengthen connections and networking among our membership. We provide leadership and a variety of innovative educational formats to support professional growth.

CIVSA Executive Board

Wes Sullivan, President

California Lutheran University

Taylor Blair, President-Elect

University of Kentucky

Rob Patterson, Immediate Past President

Middle Tennessee State University

Mel Baxter, Secretary

New York University

Andrew Cohen, Treasurer

Georgia Institute of Technology

Julee Mitsler, Director of Communications

Lindenwood University

Laura Stansell, Council of Past Presidents Chair

University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Regional Directors

Kacey Beltz, Region 1

Pepperdine University

Laura Galloway, Region 2

University of Houston

Gavin Waits, Region 3

Illinois Institute of Technology

Nick Reffuge, Region 4

University of Pittsburgh

Andrew Tucker, Region 5

University of Alabama

Committee Chairs

Alecia Dennis, Annual Conference Chair

Ohio Dominican University

Ashley Bair, SDI Conference Chair

University of Maryland

Stephen Barnett, Diversity and Inclusion Emeritus

LeAnn Stroupe, Diversity and Inclusion

University of Missouri

Jo Golden, Educational Resources

Western Washington University

Katie Holdgreve-Resendez, Involvement

University of Colorado Boulder

Michelle Johnson, Involvement

Bellarmine University

Jon Augustyn, Member Relations

Cornell University

Natalie Mann, Member Relations

University of Georgia

Aaron Borgeson, Research and Assessment

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Ebony Smith, Scholarships

The Ohio State University

Kellyn Moody, Sponsorships

Randolph-Macon College

Megan Adams, Standards

University of Louisville

Kelvin Lee, Virtual Engagement

Stanford University

Jayne Reimel, Virtual Engagement

University of California, Santa Barbara