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Jayne Reimel, Ph.D. (she/her)
2025 Annual Conference Chair
ion Co ion
2025 Annual Conference Chair
On behalf of the Annual Conference Planning Committee, welcome to Charlotte! We’re so glad you could join us in the Queen City for the 31st CIVSA Annual Conference We have been hard at work putting together a schedule that will allow you to not only grow professionally, but to have some fun while you’re here. Between starting our engines at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and celebrating like royalty at the Closing Dinner, the conference will include opportunities to hear from some incredible keynote speakers, learn best practices from other attendees, and enhance your skills in one of the expert-led workshops We hope that you will take this opportunity to grow your network and make connections with colleagues from across the country and world
University of California, Office of the President
For those of you new to the city, we also hope you’ll take advantage of all that it has to offer. There is a reason the city’s slogan is “Charlotte’s got a lot!” I encourage you to check out the Travel Guide to help you explore the local community
I am honored to serve as this year’s conference chair; however, planning a multi-day conference such as this is truly a team effort I cannot thank the planning committee aka the “Royal Court” enough for the time and energy they have volunteered to make this happen. Know that every aspect of the conference experience was carefully curated by this group with you in mind I am forever grateful for their hard work, enthusiasm, and intentionality in putting this conference together (as well as all of the laughs along the way)
I also want to take this opportunity to acknowledge some other folks who are instrumental in this conference First, I am forever grateful to have worked so closely with conference and events manager La Dawn Duvall in the planning process Thank you for your guidance and bringing all of the details together Secondly, thank you to association manager Jen McGowan for all of the work she does behind the scenes to make sure this conference runs smoothly. And last, but not least, thank you to CIVSA president Andrew Cohen. Not only for trusting me with this responsibility, but supporting and encouraging all of our ideas, no matter how big or small Your leadership in CIVSA is greatly appreciated
If you have any questions during the conference or need assistance, please visit us at the registration desk or find one of the many fantastic volunteers who would be happy to help! We are so excited that you could join us in Charlotte this year. We hope you enjoy the CIVSA Annual Conference and leave with fresh ideas, new connections, and renewed energy for the work that we do
With CIVSA Pride,
2025 Annual Conference Chair
Jayne Reimel
University of California, Office of the President
Local Arrangements & Transportation
Rebecca Harrington Johnson | CHAIR | University of South Carolina
Emily Bingham | Western Carolina University
Torii Masinsin | Elon University
Raygon Moore | Queens University of Charlotte
Programming & Education
Brylee Groskreutz | CHAIR | Iowa State University
Chris Cahill | Fairfield University
Kalee Castanon | Texas A&M University
Winston Franscini | University of North Texas
Bethany Lestochi | University of Miami
Denessa McPherson | Berea College
Publicity & Promotions
Rebecca Anzalone | CHAIR | University of Washington
Christian Heimall | High Point University
Gabriela Nahous | University of Miami
Paige Peterson | Boise State University
Laurel Shriver | North Carolina State University
Spirit & Traditions
Brandon Gross | CHAIR | Johns Hopkins University
Brandon Cheatham | University of South Florida
Kaylee King | University of New Haven
Karen Moser | University of Texas at Arlington
Marianne Virnelson | University of Maryland
Welcome & Volunteers
Jen Cheng | CHAIR | St John’s University
Genevieve Arnold | The Ohio State University
Nora Beerman | Austin Peay State University
Alexis Broussard | Texas A&M University
Helena Manning | University of WisconsinMadison
Katy Mitton | Lehigh University
CIVSA Association Manager
Jen McGowan
CIVSA Conference and Events Manager
La Dawn Duvall
Andrew Cohen (he/him) CIVSA President
Georgia Institute of Technology
Welcome to Charlotte! On behalf of the executive board and the conference planning committee, I am thrilled to welcome you to Charlotte, the Queen City, for our 31st Annual Conference!
This conference serves as an invaluable opportunity to connect with colleagues, share best practices, and engage in thought-provoking discussions that will shape the future of our field Whether you are a first-time attendee or a long-standing member, I encourage you to take full advantage of the wide variety of educational sessions, workshops, networking events, and insightful keynote presentations we have planned
Our conference planning committee has brought creativity and excitement to the planning process My appreciation goes to conference chair Jayne Reimel (University of California Office of the President), programming & education chair Brylee Groskreutz (Iowa State University), publicity & promotions chair Rebecca Anzalone (University of Washington), local arrangements & transportation chair Rebecca Harrington Johnson (University of South Carolina), spirit & traditions chair Brandon Gross (Johns Hopkins University), and welcome & volunteers chair Jen Cheng (St. John’s University).
In addition, the committee members gave countless hours to make this week a reality Without their creativity and commitment, and the support of our conference and events manager La Dawn Duvall and association manager Jen McGowan, this would not be possible This week is going to be incredible together we will reflect on the past year, share the challenges we faced, and celebrate our many successes I know we will leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to return to our campuses to continue making a positive impact on our students and visitor programs
Davidson College, Queens University of Charlotte, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte have graciously opened their campuses to our attendees Our speakers, educational sessions and workshops will empower you to thrive at your institutions, forge meaningful connections, and engage with colleagues who understand your work And of course, you will have the chance to enjoy our incredible host city, Charlotte, known for its rich history, dynamic culture, and warm hospitality As we spend time on the traditional land of the Catawba, Cheraw, Sugeree, Wateree, and Waxhaw peoples, I hope you will experience the vibrant cultural history that makes Charlotte so special
Being a CIVSA member is truly the highlight of my professional career. If you are attending as a nonmember, I am eager to connect with you and share the great benefits of becoming a CIVSA member. If you are already a member, I sincerely thank you your investment in CIVSA enriches our association in powerful ways I am honored to welcome you to Charlotte for the 31st Annual Conference! CIVSA, now it’s time let’s start your engines!
Best wishes,
Access the conference schedule and real-time updates on your phone with the Guidebook app!
Search for the Guidebook App in your app store, then search "CIVSA" and download the 2025 guide This is highly recommended for the best Conference experience!
A printed program will not be available
Time
9 a m - 12 p m 10
4:15 - 5:15 p m
4:15 - 5:15 p m
5:30 - 8:30 p m
Tuesday, May 27 Tuesday, May 27
CIVSA Board Meeting
Conference Check-In (Information Desk Open)
Pre-Conference Tour: Queens University of Charlotte
Pre-Conference Tour: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Sponsor Demonstrations
First-Timers Connect
Returners Reconnect
Welcome Reception
Location
Uptown III
Portman Promenade
Providence Promenade
Providence Promenade
Guidebook: Providence I
Advent: Providence II
Grand Ballroom
Providence III
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Time
7:30 a m - 5 p m
9 - 10:30 a m
10:30 a m - 5 p m
10:45 - 11:30 a m
11:30 a m - 1 p m
1 - 1:45 p m
2 - 2:45 p m
3 - 4 p.m.
4:15 - 5 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 28 Wednesday, May 28
Conference Check-In (Information Desk Open)
Conference Welcome & Keynote with Dr Tania Israel
Sponsor Exhibits Open
Regional Meetings and Swag Swap
Lunch (provided by CIVSA) & CIVSA Cares presentation
Educational Sessions
Educational Sessions
CIVSA Connections
Educational Sessions
Museum Tours
Location
Portman Promenade
Grand Ballroom
Grand Promenade (2 Floor) nd
See page 15
Grand Ballroom
See pages 21-25
See pages 26-29
See page 15
See pages 30-34
Grand Promenade
Thursday, May 29 Thursday, May 29
Time
7 - 8 a m
8 a m - 5 p m
8:30 a m - 5 p m
8:30 - 10:30 a m
10:30 - 11:30 a m
11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
12:30 - 2 p.m.
2 - 2:45 p.m.
3 - 4 p.m.
4:15 - 5 p m
Time
7 - 8 a m
8 a m - 5 p m
8:30 a m - 2:30 p m
8:30 - 9:30 a m
9:45 - 10:30 a m
10:45 - 11:30 a m
11:30 a m - 1:15 p m
1:30 - 2:15 p m
2:30 - 4 p m
6:30 - 10 p m
Time
9 a m - 12 p m 9 a m - 12 p m
Morning Zumba
Information Desk Open
Sponsor Exhibits Open Workshops
Sponsor and CIVSA Involvement Fair
Educational Sessions
Lunch (on your own)
Educational Sessions Hot Topics
Educational Sessions
Friday, May 30 Friday, May 30
Morning Walk or Run with Colleagues
Information Desk Open
Sponsor Exhibits Open
CIVSA Connections
Educational Sessions Hot Topics
Lunch & Business Meeting
Educational Sessions
Conference Wrap-Up/Closing Plenary Session with Eileen Soisson and the 2026 Annual Conference Reveal Closing Reception & Awards
Location
Uptown I
Portman Promenade
Grand Promenade (2 Floor) nd
See pages 17-18
Grand Promenade (2 Floor) nd
See pages 35-38
See Travel Guide
See pages 39-42
See page 16
See pages 43-47
Saturday, May 31 Saturday, May 31
Activity
CIVSA Board Meeting Post-Conference Tour: Davidson College
Depart from hotel lobby
Portman Promenade
Grand Promenade (2 Floor) nd
See page 15
See pages 48-52
See page 16
Grand Ballroom
See pages 53-56
Grand Ballroom
Grand Ballroom
Location
Uptown III Providence Promenade
A long-standing CIVSA tradition is to give back to the Annual Conference host city by encouraging attendees to donate to an organization selected by the conference committee.
Classroom Central provides free essential supplies and resources to students and educators in 248 schools across six Charlotte-region districts through their Free Store, Mobile Free Store, and other community-supported programs.
Learn more about Classroom Central
Join the CIVSA Cares campaign!
During the 2023-2024 school year, Classroom Central
Distributed $10,581,019 in supplies (2,752,301 items)
Served 248 schools and 4,596 teachers
Impacted more than 70,000 students
CIVSA would like to recognize and thank our conference sponsors for their generous
CIVSA would like to recognize and thank our conference sponsors for their generous support. We invite you to visit them at the sponsor exhibits to learn about their products and support. We invite you to visit them at the sponsor exhibits to learn about their products and services services
I A M O N D G O L D
Tuesday, May 27 | 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Start your engines because we’ll be revving up for the conference at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. From exploring Glory Road and NASCAR's history, putting your pit crew skills to the test, and going head-to-head with other attendees in the race simulator, don't miss out on this chance to satisfy your need for speed and get your wheels turning for the week ahead
The Gift Store will be open from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for attendees to go full speed ahead on purchasing items for others (or yourself!).
Friday, May 30 | 6:30 - 10 p.m. Grand Ballroom
You are cordially invited to celebrate the end of our time together in the Queen City like royalty.
From the soft glow of candlelight to enchanting melodies that set the mood, step into a world of Regency-era opulence. Hosted by the Queen herself, the evening will include a delectable feast, spirited libations, and an atmosphere of merriment. Don your finest attire and be prepared to dance, delight, and perhaps even discover a few secrets of your own…
The Queen looks forward to your presence!
Eileen Soisson
the Promise of Higher Education in a Divided
These are troubled times as colleges grapple with political attacks on higher education, culture wars, and battles over free speech Distress and discord tax faculty, staff, and administrators and impede students’ ability to achieve educational and developmental goals. How can colleges achieve the promise of higher education while facing these challenges?
Is it possible that current strife offers an opportunity to promote inquiry, support wellness, prepare students to be engaged citizens, and address historical injustices? Grounded in evidence, experience, and a lifetime in higher education, Dr. Israel offers vision and strategies to help colleges embrace the potential of this moment.
Leading Change: The Story of Implementing
‘Feel the Teal’ Service Excellence Program at Coastal Carolina University
This plenary session offers a broader perspective on service excellence in higher education Eileen Soisson will share her story of implementing a university-wide service excellence initiative (Feel the Teal®) at Coastal Carolina University and pass along lessons learned along the way Participants will gain valuable insights into the overarching principles and practices that drive service excellence on any campus, with a focus on fostering sustainable improvements in student and staff experiences
Wednesday, May 28 | 10:45 - 11:30 a.m.
Attendee name badges will display your region. The Regional Map can be found on page 75
Region I
Region II
Region III
Region IV
Region V
Uptown I
Uptown III
Providence I
Providence III Providence II
Wednesday, May 28 | 3 - 4 p.m. Friday, May 30 | 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Connections is about expanding your network and connecting with other attendees based on shared experiences and interests Use this time to build your professional sphere and collaborate to push our profession forward
Your Connections Group can be found on your conference name badge. We encourage you to use this time to engage with other attendees in a meaningful way and build relationships that you can carry with you beyond conference These sessions will be facilitated by an assigned Connections group leader Please refer to Guidebook for additional details as well as your assigned room locations.
A variety of topics will be available during the scheduled hot topics meeting
What are Hot Topics? times Attendees can choose the topic that is most relevant to them These meetings will provide a chance to connect with other professionals in the field, share best practices, and learn from each other while discussing a specific topic
Please refer to Guidebook for additional details as well as your assigned room locations.
Thursday, May 29 | 3 - 4 p.m.
BIPOC Connection & Community
College/Academic Professionals Connect
Data Analysis & Reporting
Diversity, Equity & Accessibility
Event Planning Best Practices
Group Visits
HBCU Representatives Connection & Community
Leadership Unites: A Space for Senior Leadership
Leading Both Ways: A Space for Middle Managers
Let's Talk CIVSA
LGBTQ+ Connection & Community
Marketing, Communications & Social Media
Neurodiverse Individuals Connection & Community
Orientation Nation: Connecting Orientation Professionals
Under the Spotlight: Managing Media Crises in Visitor Services
Welcome to the Crew: A Space for New Professionals
Friday, May 30 | 10:45 - 11:30 a.m.
BIPOC Connection & Community
College/Academic Professionals Connect
CRMs, Visit Softwares, and Technology
Data Analysis & Reporting
Diversity, Equity & Accessibility
Event Planning Best Practices
Group Visits
Leadership Unites: A Space for Senior Leadership
Leading Both Ways: A Space for Middle Managers
Let's Talk CIVSA
LGBTQ+ Connection & Community
Marketing, Communications & Social Media
Orientation Nation: Connecting Orientation Professionals
Parenting Professionals Connection & Community
Transfer Student Programming & Events
Thursday, May 29 | 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
If you registered to attend a workshop in your pre-conference survey, it will be listed on the materials you receive at conference check-in You will also receive a ticket that you’ll need to get into the workshop
Didn’t sign up for a workshop in advance? Visit the Info Desk to see which workshops have available space
With polarization in the U S at a record high, politics, values, and identities divide us. Barraged with media images of ignorant, extreme, and hostile Americans, we are fearful, angry, and increasingly disconnected Amidst stress and conflict, how can we maintain our sense of wellbeing and heal ruptures? In this program, Dr. Israel will offer guidance and practical solutions to help attendees build their capacity to operate effectively in their personal and professional roles. Insight about causes and consequences of polarization will offer a foundation for building dialogue skills and strategies for resilience. This informative and engaging workshop will prepare attendees for the challenges of this moment and beyond.
Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z: these four generations make up the exceptionally valuable and complex workforce of today, and the deep differences among their beliefs about work are adding significant friction to achieving growth and goals.
“How do I bridge their differences and deliver massive results at the same time?!” is a common and understandable leadership concern "How do I navigate return to office while keeping employee performance and engagement high?" is a daily strain on every leader, every day, right now
With GIVE TO GET TRUST: LEADING ACROSS GENERATIONS, Phil Putnam helps solve the challenges of cross-generational leadership by equipping leaders of all ages and levels to understand why each generation responds to work and life the way they do, and gives tactical guidance for how to anticipate and navigate the collisions and chemistry of each combination of generations via a hands-on walk through of his Give to Get Trust Leadership Guide
Thursday, May 29 | 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
If you registered to attend a workshop in your pre-conference survey, it will be listed on the materials you receive at conference check-in You will also receive a ticket that you’ll need to get into the workshop
Didn’t sign up for a workshop in advance? Visit the Info Desk to see which workshops have available space
In this dynamic 2-hour workshop, you'll discover the concept of VALUE based leadership to improve yourself and your team’s performance Through hands-on activities, engaging conversation, and concept development, you’ll gain practical tools to improve your effectiveness and to allow you to lead with purpose. The content of the workshop comes from more than a decade of experiments and implementation at High Point University where low staff turnover and high staff engagement have led to record numbers of annual visitors and record enrollments. This workshop is great for anyone stepping into a leadership role as well as those who are looking for new resources to enhance their current team.
This workshop will provide an introduction to emergency management in higher education and two indepth, hands-on discussions on preparedness tools that UNC Charlotte uses: the NinerReady program and event action planning.
This interactive workshop provides participants with the tools to develop and implement a service excellence initiative within higher education Attendees will learn to define service excellence specific to their institution or department, explore five key steps to enhance service delivery, and outline actionable strategies to foster a culture of service excellence across their campuses or departments.
Hiring, onboarding, retention, supervision, and training and development for student and professional staff
The people that make up our teams, both student staff and professional staff, are invaluable to the work we do. We encourage you to share innovative ideas and strategies that helped shape your team dynamics and could equip all levels of staff with the tools they need to succeed Session topics in this track may include hiring and retention strategies, training and development, supervision practices and ways that you support and strengthen your team.
Campus tours and visits, programming changes, visitor/welcome centers, customer service
The campus visit offers students the opportunity to explore campus and envision themselves as part of the student body This experience has tremendous influence on their decision to apply or attend For many of us, the demand from visitors for campus visits has increased while our resources have not Whether you oversee a Welcome Center or work alongside Admissions, we want to hear how your institution is providing visitors with a positive campus experience both in-person and virtually that goes beyond the one-size-fits-all approach, including how you came to these solutions and how you measure success.
Accessibility, campus diversity, diversity equity and inclusion training, multicultural events and recruitment
Our visitor programs play a pivotal role in building a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive campus environment for all students As we continue our efforts to improve campus diversity and inclusion, let’s learn from one another about how to improve representation in our own programs, as well as hosting programs and events for specific student populations in order to improve our campus communities for students who are non-traditional, LGBTQ+, disabled, and students of color, along with additional and intersectional identities
Open house events, special programming by student type (admitted, transfer, middle school, etc.)
Between open houses, admitted student days, group visits, class visits, orientation and more, planning events for students and their support networks is no easy task. Share your tips and best practices for
organizing and hosting both in-person and virtual events, including planning and assessment, collaborations, safety procedures, and day-of operations.
Building team culture and morale, personal and professional growth, work/life balance
Many of us are looking for ways to grow professionally and advance in our ever-changing field We also struggle with the daily grind and making sure that we are taking care of ourselves. Session topics in this track focus on professional development, establishing positive team culture and morale, and self-care, while supporting each other in striving for both personal growth and fulfillment in our careers. We will discuss best practices for creating boundaries, recharging and refocusing during and after the busy moments, identifying and utilizing your personal and professional strengths to elevate your team, as well as what professional growth opportunities have been meaningful for you and/or others while helping advance careers and stay actively engaged in this work.
Engaging campus partners, establishing and maintaining internal and/or external partnerships, collaboration and communication best practices
Building strong relationships with on- and off-campus partners is a critical aspect of our work in improving guest experience as well as access to higher education Sessions could also include unique, powerful, and creative collaborations you’ve implemented that have made a lasting impact Whether with academic departments, community organizations, or alumni, collaboration can elevate the work of everyone
Reporting and assessment, technology and digital tools, social media, marketing and communications, CRM management
With best practices and trends changing all the time, it’s critical to stay knowledgeable about the systems and processes that allow our teams to stay connected and informed. We encourage you to share how your institution collects and analyzes visitor data and how it shapes your operations, including collection strategies, metrics, analytic assessments, and reporting practices. Session topics can also include social media strategies and campaigns and implementing digital tools into your operations.
Wednesday, May 28 | 1 - 1:45 p.m.
Julee Mitsler, Lindenwood University
Lexi Petrak, East Tennessee State University
Sydney Jones, University of Central Arkansas
Tryon
Join the CIVSA Strategic Planning Committee for an insightful session where we’ll share the Association’s new strategic plan for 2025-2028 The plan is designed to guide the Association through the next three years, focusing on development, collaboration, and engagement. During the session, attendees will gain an understanding of the plan development process as well as key objectives and initiatives that will help guide CIVSA’s future The committee will also outline the process for evaluating progress on the goals and actions of the plan. If you’re excited to learn more about what lies ahead for CIVSA, and how you can be part of it, this session is for you!
Sandra Vance, Gonzaga University
Harris
Do you face challenges getting faculty and campus partners involved in recruitment events? Are you looking for ways to foster stronger connections with colleagues across your institution? At Gonzaga University, positive, collaborative relationships with campus partners—from faculty members and academic departments to student affairs and dining services—are essential to the success of our recruitment initiatives
In this session, we’ll explore strategies for building and nurturing partnerships across campus, bridging any existing gaps, and establishing a strong network to support your recruitment goals. We’ll discuss practical approaches to staying connected throughout the recruitment cycle and maximizing these relationships to enhance your visit programs and event offerings. Additionally, we’ll share examples of how Gonzaga has benefited from effective campus partnerships in various areas.
This session is ideal for professionals who work with campus partners, lead cross-departmental initiatives, or coordinate events involving contributions from other departments. Come ready to exchange questions, ideas, and best practices with your peers!
Wednesday, May 28 | 1 - 1:45 p.m.
David Thomas, Texas State University
Providence I
Managing a team of student tour guides often feels like directing a cast of beloved characters—each with unique personalities, quirks, and strengths. Inspired by The Princess Bride, this session will explore techniques to engage, develop, and support guides who reflect archetypes like “The Wesley” (the dependable leader), “The Inigo” (the passionate and determined), “The Fezzik” (the kind and supportive team player), and even “The Vizzini” (the clever but sometimes challenging strategist) By understanding these character types, you’ll learn how to play to each guide's strengths, address challenges, and build a cohesive team culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to shine. Get ready for a session that’s not only informative but “inconceivably” fun, leaving you with actionable insights and a new way to see and support your team!
Natalie Abernethy, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Shannon O’Brien, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Uptown III
Feeling like your team needs to be incredible? Time to suit up! Get ready to dive into how NJIT has transformed pre-event training for our 25 full-time staff members and 25 paid student ambassadors, building a dynamic team worthy of any superhero mission. Much like The Incredibles, we’ve armed our teams with practical tools and resources, ensuring they’re ready to face any challenge with confidence Through role play scenarios, live demonstrations, and comprehensive training packets, we’ve empowered our team to problem-solve on the fly and provide excellent customer service By utilizing individual roles and schedules, we ensure every part of the event runs smoothly. We’ll explore our admissions office structure, event materials, and key learning outcomes, all of which have led to noticeable improvements in guest feedback Join us as we discuss how we’re creating our own team of event superheroes and the strategies driving our success!
Wednesday, May 28 | 1 - 1:45 p.m.
Danielle Schlough, Lehigh University
Stephanie Gavin, Syracuse University Providence II
Are your group visits feeling more like a “bore walk” than a highlight reel? Struggling to keep students engaged or navigating tricky logistical hurdles? Join the Educational Resources Committee’s forum to uncover fresh strategies that will transform your group visits from meh to memorable!
Building on insights from the Group Visit Podcast, this session invites participants from small and medium institutions, large universities, and community colleges to share successes and challenges. Bring your questions and “pick the brains” of colleagues who’ve tackled it all from engagement challenges to creative programming ideas You should leave with actionable tips to wow your visitors, streamline logistics, and roll out the red carpet for every group Together, let’s make group visits group-tastic!
Jordan Glover, Penn State Trade
In this session, Penn State will share our multi-pronged approach to planning large-scale events. By planning each event throughout the year, we maximize our ability to execute and evaluate programs for the greatest impact Attendees will gain insight into the spreadsheet systems, event planning strategies, and timeline management techniques that keep our operations running smoothly. Get a behind-thescenes look at how collaborative decision making and structured execution lead to successful, highimpact events
Wednesday, May 28 | 1 - 1:45 p.m.
Alexis Glenn, Johns Hopkins University
Uptown II
Periods of change, such as staffing shifts or organizational restructuring, can challenge even the most cohesive teams Drawing from my experience leading a team that includes both special events and daily visits staff within the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, this session will explore how to lead with compassion and efficiency during times of transition
We'll discuss the challenges unique to managing both types of teams how to keep the energy high for special events while ensuring daily visits maintain their consistency and quality. Participants will learn how to align these teams, maintain productivity, and rebuild trust, all while being empathetic to individual team needs Practical strategies will include fostering open communication, celebrating small wins, and re-establishing team norms through collaborative problem-solving
Using real-life scenarios, such as managing overlapping responsibilities during staff turnover and balancing workloads between the daily visits and special events teams, attendees will engage in group discussions to identify solutions for their own offices. This session will provide a roadmap for leading a balanced, people-centered team that fosters collaboration, resilience, and institutional success.
Mel Baxter, Southern Methodist University
Providence III
Let’s face it - our campus visit experiences are similar Our ambassadors tell the same jokes (“If you liked the tour, my name is Mel! If you hated the tour, my name is Kelvin ”), our campuses have state-of-the-art student centers, and all it takes to start an organization is 3 friends + an advisor. In a world of 25,000 higher education institutions, how do you stand out?
This session will provide recommendations to stand out - not only as a visit program, but also as an individual You will leave this session with tangible ideas from a variety of industries (including athletics, hospitality, and retail) that you can bring back to your institution and make your own. My goal is to challenge you to think about the ways you can make a lasting impact on visitors. I’m confident that you’ll leave this session eager to share what you’ve experienced just like your visitors will do after visiting your campus.
Wednesday, May 28 | 1 - 1:45 p.m.
Pack this Palooza!:
Arielle Phillips-Law, Alvernia University
Mary-Alice Ozechoski, Alvernia University
Uptown I
Alvernia’s signature admissions event is designed around the understanding that each student has specific questions throughout their college search Marketed as “A Day Designed for You!”, this unique conference-style event offers over 20 diverse information sessions that explore different aspects of the University in academics and student life Extending beyond traditional campus visits, students can meet one-on-one with faculty, tour student-centered and major-specific facilities, visit residence halls, receive personalized FAFSA assistance, and end the day with fun, stress-relieving activities like goat yoga This session will dive into our process of thoughtfully organizing the day and our collaboration with campus partners. We will share our successes from our last iterations of the event and our plans for future growth.
During this session, learn more about how we craft a personalized and engaging admissions process that mirrors the excitement of the student experience, fosters connection to the Alvernia community, and promotes a deeper sense of belonging.
Wednesday, May 28 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Jenn McKenzie, Hendrix College
Heath Riddle-Sims, Hendrix College
Tryon
Admission and athletic departments working together in creating/hosting recruiting events can be a powerful strategy for both student recruitment and the overall success of a college or university. By collaborating, these departments can enhance the student visit experience, improve recruitment outcomes, and contribute to the institution’s overall goals. A student-athlete’s future at a college/university isn’t just determined by their sports ability; it also depends on their ability to succeed academically and socially.
Come learn how Hendrix College, a DIII school, has created a partnership with these two departments to collaborate in recruiting efforts for prospective student athletes and retention efforts for current athletes. A strong partnership between admissions and athletics leads to more efficient recruitment strategies, enhanced visit events, better student-athletes, and stronger institutional success.
Laura Cleland, University of Toronto
Providence II
How can you spot a standout tour guide in a sea of applications? Traditional hiring methods like resumes, cover letters, and conventional interviews just aren’t cutting it anymore, especially when you’re short on time and resources In this session, learn how the University of Toronto’s St George Campus revamped its tour guide recruitment process to better identify top candidates at each stage By adding a questionnaire, situational questions, and a video to our application process, plus introducing more interactive interviews, we’ve transformed our hiring process and strengthened our team
Attendees to this session will hear about the University of Toronto’s approach to tour guide applicant screening, interviews and final team selection. See how our senior student staff play a significant role in application review and the interview process.
In this session, we’ll also have an interactive segment where we’ll dive into best practices, share our favourite interview questions, and discuss tips and tricks for hiring the best tour guides. This will be an opportunity for attendees to exchange ideas and learn from each other’s experiences. This session is geared toward anyone who manages the hiring of student staff or volunteers. If you’re tired of sifting through endless, identical cover letters, join us and rewrite the hiring playbook.
Wednesday, May 28 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Chiara Schwindt, Whittier College
Uptown II
Planning two admitted student days is a powerful way to ensure all prospective students and their families can experience your institution. In this session, we’ll break down the steps for executing two successful events, covering everything from logistics to best practices. You’ll learn how to create detailed to-do lists, manage tight timelines, and design engaging, welcoming environments for both students and families. We’ll also discuss the dos and don’ts of event planning, help you avoid common pitfalls, and navigate challenges with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or just starting out, this session will provide the tools you need to elevate your admitted student day programs and demonstrate your institution’s commitment to prospective students
Ducks Unite: Our Story at the Forefront of the Student Labor Movement
Molly Maxwell, University of Oregon
Providence I
The University of Oregon undergraduate students formed one of the first campus-wide student workers unions at a public university and was certified by the Oregon Employment Relations Board in 2023. Since then, supervisors have learned alongside UOSW (University of Oregon Student Workers Union) as they implement new employee orientations, enact Weingarten rights, and bargain for changes in their employment. The goal for this session would be to provide benchmarking data and share best practices of navigating union policies to ensure equity for student staff
Kate Kishbaugh, Penn State
Teresa Fortney, Penn State
Uptown I
Penn State Park hosts several multicultural day bus trips each year, exposing prospective students to our campus, resources, and student life Join us to learn about our planning process, day-of logistics, and how we use current students and academic college resources to make the event impactful for attendees. Also, hear how these events translate into applications and admits.
Wednesday, May 28 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Nick Eiginger, West Virginia University
Uptown III
Ever since I heard my capstone advisor complain to me that, “This survey doesn’t do anything,” I have been fascinated with the idea of what makes a good survey. There are so many ways to ask the same question, and some seem to be more effective at getting a thoughtful response than others. Why does “What else would you like to share?” elicit more meaningful responses than “Is there anything else you would like to share?”
The purpose of this session is to explore how you can get the most information out of qualitative data The first part of the session will cover what makes a good open-ended survey question, while the second part will cover best practices for collecting and sorting qualitative data Finally, I will provide examples of how we use that data and what meaningful decisions have been made because of these open-ended answers This will be done by showcasing the evolution of WVU’s post-visit survey; from its origin as a 49question wall of Likert scales to its current 19-question iteration of focused questions.
Anna Larson, Iowa State University
Jen Hacke Sass, Iowa State University
Providence III
Campus visit programs play a vital role in student recruitment, helping prospective students experience university life For large institutions like Iowa State University, the challenge is ensuring each visitor feels like an individual, even amidst large events. This session will showcase how Iowa State personalizes campus visits for over 30,000 visitors annually, ensuring each guest feels seen and valued. In this session, you will learn actionable strategies for tailoring the visit experience, from large Admitted Days to smaller daily visits, and how to manage personalization at scale Key takeaways include adapting checkin, lunch, and session experiences to group size, understanding the impact of personalization on visitor satisfaction, and implementing practical strategies using communication tools, academic partnerships, and logistical planning Attendees will gain insights on how to create personal connections with academic departments, utilize campus resources, and enhance visitor engagement Whether hosting 30 or 30,000 visitors, this session will provide valuable tools to create meaningful, customized campus visits that strengthen recruitment and make prospective students feel connected to the institution.
Wednesday, May 28 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Erin Ginn, Herzing University
Kristen Hoffman, Herzing University Trade
This presentation challenges traditional assumptions about personality types in college admissions and introduces a comprehensive framework for authentic professional development among admissions staff Too often we teach the technical skills but not the ones we need to move forward in our professional career Drawing from research on imposter syndrome and the science of self-confidence, we explore how to better support admissions professionals of all communication styles while maintaining effectiveness in student recruitment and community engagement The session addresses three key areas: the impact of communication style on professional effectiveness, strategies for authentic confidence building, and practical approaches to overcoming imposter syndrome. Participants will learn evidence-based techniques for developing confident communication styles without compromising authenticity and strategies for creating inclusive team environments that value diverse communication styles. This interactive session will provide practical tools for both new and experienced admissions professionals to enhance their professional presence without compromising who you are as a person.
Sulaina Banks, Cal Poly Humboldt
Harris
Recruiting for a rural institution, which is generally defined as a place with a low population density and a distance from urban areas, presents unique challenges and opportunities, particularly in creating a campus visit experience that resonates with prospective students and their families. This session will provide an in-depth look at how Cal Poly Humboldt has reimagined the campus visit experience to address these challenges and deliver an impactful, personalized journey for prospective students and their families From our strategic approach to extended campus tours to offering free travel opportunities, such as our Spring Preview PLUS program, we will showcase how we cater to visitors traveling long distances while highlighting the value of our rural campus.
Attendees will gain insights into how to maximize the potential of their campus, enhance guest experiences, and use these opportunities as a competitive advantage in the recruitment process This session will include a brief presentation, real-world examples of successful initiatives, and an open discussion to exchange ideas and strategies with attendees.
Wednesday, May 28 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Makayla Mitchell, Utah Valley University
Harris
How do you turn an admitted student into a committed student? At Utah Valley University, we’ve developed an immersive campus experience that bridges the gap between admission and enrollment. “Admitted Pathways: Department Tours at UVU” is a unique event designed for admitted students to explore their future academic home in a deeper, more personal way.
This session will explore how we guide students through a structured, welcoming experience - from a central kickoff presentation covering next steps (like scholarships, housing, ID cards, and registration) to personalized college-specific tours led by deans and department chairs. Attendees will learn how this initiative fosters a sense of belonging, connects students with faculty and peers, and supports families through the transition Come discover how creating space for academic exploration before classes begin can lead to stronger yield, engagement, and student confidence.
Keila Valdez, University of North Texas
Trade
Often in the workplace, an introvert’s personality can lead to labels like “uninterested,” “unconfident,” and incapable of exceeding expectations. As an introvert, I entered the visitor experience profession thinking I would need to obtain the wooing characteristics of an extrovert to succeed Eighteen months later, I recognize I don’t need to change the way I work. Instead, I leaned into my strengths that supplemented the dynamics of my team.
To my fellow introverts – balancing how to work in a fast-paced environment with trying to rearrange your personality to fit the extrovert model won’t be helpful or authentically you Instead, let’s identify the strengths you have and that add more value to your leadership. To my extroverted counterparts – your introverted peers hold innate strengths that can help your team further exceed expectations. Having both sets of personalities is necessary for a balanced working environment It’s a matter of reevaluating the language amongst our introverted and extroverted teammates. This presentation is an opportunity to help understand the power of an introverted mind by identifying skills and learning how to implement those strengths while creating an inclusive environment for all to advance Join me in redefining what it means to be an introverted leader and professional in the workplace
Wednesday, May 28 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Michelle Wu, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Uptown II
If you’ve ever taken a ballroom dance lesson, you know avoiding stubbed toes requires synchronicity with your partner. Just as on the dance floor, our connections with campus partners can make or break admissions visits Drawing from the presenter’s extensive experience on the other side – the campus partner – this session will cover strategies for building strong relationships that benefit your operations, increase visibility, and strengthen your reputation. Hear examples of strategies that worked (and those that didn’t quite work) as we share the greatest opportunities and challenges from the perspective of partners in facilities, academic units, parking, dining and more We will discuss ways to initiate partnerships and build constructive communication networks that enhance the visit experience, improve operational efficiency and creatively utilize resources to engage with prospective and admitted students. Get ready to hit the dance floor and go from “two left feet” to a dancing fiend!
Daniel Turano, Arizona State University
Ryan Clayton, Arizona State University
Providence I
Student workers and campus tour guides are often the first point of contact for prospective students and families, making their roles vital to the institution's success. Beyond their daily responsibilities, these students serve as ambassadors, role models, and leaders within the campus community.
This presentation delves into the strategies for designing leadership programs that elevate the potential of student workers and tour guides. It will explore how to integrate leadership training into their roles, foster professional development, and create a sense of pride and ownership in their work. Attendees will gain insights into how structured mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and regular feedback can enhance both their leadership skills and their ability to represent the institution effectively.
By investing in the growth and leadership development of student workers and campus tour guides, institutions can cultivate confident, adaptable leaders who positively impact campus culture and inspire future students. This session offers actionable approaches to building programs that empower these critical student leaders to thrive both on and off-campus.
Wednesday, May 28 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Alexis Broussard, Texas A&M University
Adeline Dauphiné, Louisiana State University
Providence III
Recruitment is a competitive game, and housing can be the MVP in a prospective student’s decision to choose your institution. So, how can you take your campus visit experience to the championship-level and showcase this key player in student life?
This session is a slam dunk for recruitment teams looking to kick off a new partnership with Residential Life or refine their current campus partner playbook. Whether you’re showing a single housing option on your campus tours or running a lineup of impressive choices, we’ve got the play-by-play for you! Join recruitment powerhouses from two SEC institutions—Texas A&M and LSU—as they huddle up to share how their winning institutional models score the ultimate goal: calling campus “home”! Learn their game-changing tips and tricks for building strong collaborations between Residential Life and Visitor Services
We’ll cover everything from housing showrooms and Housing Ambassadorship programs to large-scale recruitment event strategies, effective communication tactics for making the most of campus partnerships, and more. Is your goal to enhance guest visit experience? We are here to talk about when it comes to collaborative campus partnerships “It just means more”! Don’t miss this chance to learn from two teams who know what it takes to stay ahead in this recruitment arena!
Rebecca Harrington Johnson, University of South Carolina
Madi O’Neill, University of South Carolina
Providence II
Tired of recruiting tour guides that are as flaky as a croissant? At the University of South Carolina, we see over 36,000 visitors a year and don’t have the luxury of waiting months for the dough to rise Our old recipe for tour guide interviews was as stale as day-old bread. We asked underwhelming questions and advanced applicants to the next round based on a feeling In 2023, we decided it was time for a complete overhaul We tossed out the old ingredients and replaced them with fresh, new techniques.
We asked more engaging questions on the application and had candidates submit videos of themselves giving a 3-minute tour stop The result? A batch of 28 new tour guides that were as sweet as a homemade pie and as reliable as a sourdough starter. Join us to discover the secret ingredients and foolproof methods that transformed our tour guide recruitment process from a complete flop to a culinary masterpiece
Wednesday, May 28 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Making the Case: How UVA Secured Buy-In and Launched Mobile-First Campus Events
Eric Walston, Guidebook
Diane Willinghan, University of Virginia Tryon
Bringing in new technology often means navigating internal roadblocks - from budget questions to stakeholder skepticism
In this session, Diane Willinghan, Event & Project Manager for the Office of Undergraduate Admission at University of Virginia and Eric Walston, Account Executive at Guidebook will share how the University of Virginia successfully built a case for Guidebook, secured cross-campus buy-in, and rolled out mobile-first experiences to improve communication and the event experience for their campus events.
You’ll walk away with actionable insights on:
Building Your Case: Proven strategies for pitching mobile to internal stakeholders and addressing common objections
Campus Collaboration: How UVA brought different departments and stakeholders together to champion a shared solution
First-Year Learnings: Reflections and lessons from UVA’s first year using Guidebook to power student events
Expanding Mobile: Tips to scale your use of Guidebook beyond a single event or department.
Whether you’re introducing mobile or looking to expand your current use, this session will help you confidently take the next step.
Diamond sponsors for the 2025 CIVSA Annual Conference have an opportunity to co-present with a member institution This session is not an endorsement by CIVSA of a specific organization or sponsor
Wednesday, May 28 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Rachel Tatge, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Kate Bracciano, Marquette University
Uptown III
In today’s competitive admissions landscape, designing and executing impactful admitted student programming is critical to yield success. But regardless of your institution’s resources and demographics, we all encounter barriers when planning these programs
Join two very different institutions, the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Marquette University, as they share both their unique (and sometimes not-so-unique) program challenges and their approach to navigating these challenges to create meaningful outcomes.
In this session, you will learn about: UW-Madison’s and Marquette University’s distinct admitted student programs, the challenges and institutional constraints they face when planning and executing their programs (including campus partner buy-in, team engagement, space and parking limitations, leadership expectations and budget considerations), their strategies to manage and/or overcome these constraints, and the impact of their strategies through data analysis.
The session will conclude with an interactive discussion, inviting attendees to share their own high-impact pivots that improved their admitted student programming
Ryan Keane, Lynn University
Uptown I
This session will address the shift in mindset of tour guides who take group tours. Over the last few years, a huge difference has been made by focusing on turning group visits into a beneficial professional experience for tour guides by implementing new leadership positions, skill development workshops, and more Whether it would be high school, middle school, or elementary school, ambassadors can be nervous or hesitant to take group visits. Working to understand the areas of concern while establishing better support and preparation for groups can lead to an evolved mindset, allowing group tours to be viewed more favorably which creates better experiences for all involved
Thursday, May 29 | 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Amanda Ross, Michigan State University
Uptown III
Michigan State University (MSU) Tours has seventeen Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide students and full-time staff on how to respond during emergencies. None of these SOPs prepared our team to navigate caring for student guides in the aftermath of an act of violence on campus.
On Monday February 13th, 2023, a person opened fire in two campus buildings resulting in three dead and five wounded, triggering a four-hour campus-wide lockdown that affected the entire Spartan Community The violence created challenges to caring for our tour guides while also balancing yield season and the need to build the next year’s class. No institution should have to face this kind of crisis, yet 12 additional institutions of higher education faced fatal gun violence in 2023 after MSU.
In this session we will focus on how the MSU Tours leadership team leveraged tools from previous institutional crises and created new ones to support tour guides as they returned to campus, classes and tours Guides were given tools to navigate uncomfortable or activating questions and hold professional boundaries with guests among other tactics that helped build comfort and confidence in returning to work
Participants will leave the session understanding how to use Tough Spot Gallery for training, the 3-point response framework for uncomfortable and charged questions, how we found our path to move forward, and the concrete actions in the field that our team needed from us.
Note: This presentation will not go into detail or specifics of the incident. While some passing references are unavoidable, our focus is - and was - on supporting our tour team
Katie Holdgreve-Resendez, University of Colorado Boulder
Uptown II
When someone who has interviewed for a job is turned down, they deserve feedback if they ask for it
Learn how CU Boulder has changed their interviewing process to focus on culture add versus culture fit, and how we are able to provide objective, constructive feedback to help candidates be more successful in future interviews Strategies on how we select the "right" candidate for the job will also be shared, and how these strategies have resulted in dynamic, robust, and honest discussions within the hiring committee.
Thursday, May 29 | 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Angie Rankin, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Tryon
At this session, attendees will be able to critically think about breaking out of the mold for creating events specifically for extroverted students If students are not participating, it is our responsibility to think of new and innovative ways to connect with them at their level and where they are at in the process. This session shows how activities like a student lounge or one on one meetings or having an art gallery showcase can be tremendously beneficial for introverted students.
Making Large Events Feel Personal: How Northeastern Prioritizes Guest Experience at its
Leilani Potgieter, Northeastern University
Ryan Tarko, Northeastern University
Harris
Does your large institution struggle with making personal connections at your Admissions Events? Each year, Northeastern University hosts over 9,500 students and their guests at its 14 signature Prospective and Admitted Student events It can be difficult for students to get the information, experience, and attention they need at such large-scale events - find out how the Northeastern Admissions Events Team's commitment to guest experience leads to successful and personalized events for all attendees. Through dedicated sessions for each of Northeastern's first-year entry programs, intentional opportunities for socialization, icebreakers and trivia, and a staff-wide focus on enthusiasm and individualized assistance, Northeastern continues to receive positive feedback about its Admissions events.
Sarah Splinter, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Providence I
Are your recruitment and hiring practices truly inclusive, or could there be hidden barriers preventing talented students from diverse backgrounds from applying? Join in for an interactive session exploring how to center racial equity in the student employee lifecycle to create more accessible, fair, and effective hiring processes for your student ambassadors, paid and volunteer.
Utilizing the racial equity guiding principles and best practices presented, participants will reflect, discuss, and develop new strategies to remove unintentional barriers. Get ready to do an “equity-edit” of your own talent pathways, position criteria, and hiring logistics. Come for practical takeaways and honest discussion about what’s gone right (and wrong) at this predominantly white institution (PWI) looking to recruit the best and brightest ambassadors.
Thursday, May 29 | 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Revving Up Recruitment: Training Campus Partners to Cross the Finish Line
Arin Morse, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Hannah Martin, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Uptown I
Once a year, the University of Missouri - Kansas City’s Admissions Office hosts a 2-3 day All-Campus Recruitment Training for campus partners involved in recruitment efforts. This training has evolved from a general information session with university updates to strategic programming designed to coach campus partners on Admissions standard recruitment policies, including table setup, customer service, and best practices when planning or attending events. These changes to the training were implemented due to updates in our accreditation requirements and feedback from our staff and visitors. This has resulted in a more unified approach to the University’s recruitment efforts and stronger communication lines between departments
In this session, we will guide attendees through the evolution of our All-Campus Recruitment Training This will include discussions about who attends and is involved in the programming, our goals for the training, and what steps we’ve taken to change the event from an information dump to an interactive, actionable source of information
Sue Newquist, Lafayette College
Providence III
If we could, we’d showcase every inch of our campuses, but due to time constraints, geography, and fitness of the visitors, that isn’t always possible. And not everyone is interested in specialty areas such as the art studios or athletics Then there’s the one-off specialty tours we accommodate: a VIP or a new employment candidate a few times a year We’ll touch on how to assess if you should create specialized event options and then we’ll dive deeply into Slate to look at three ways to do this: using Slate Forms, using Slate Events, and using Slate Availability (formerly Active Scheduler) We’ll learn how to create the templates and communications for each of these systems so it optimizes availability for visitors while keeping the in-house workload to a minimum
Thursday, May 29 | 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Mary Carman Jordan, Wofford College
Providence II
In higher education supervising students requires more than logistical oversight It involves mentoring and empowering students to grow both personally and professionally. As a Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, I utilize these coaching principles in supervising student staff on a daily basis. This session will explore how incorporating coaching techniques into supervision practices can transform the experience for student staff, creating more engaged, motivated, and resilient teams. Grounded in research demonstrating the effectiveness of coaching in fostering development and improving performance, the session will introduce practical coaching methods that can be used by supervisors We will do a role playing activity on the "Practice Pitch" where participants will learn to apply coaching techniques of active listening, goal-setting, and strengths-based feedback to enhance student learning, boost retention, and build a positive team culture
Monica Cordova, University of California, Santa Barbara
Sarah Haven, Central Washington University
Brittany Churchwell, Central Washington University
Trade
While group visits are often seen as a logistical challenge, this session will demonstrate that the solution isn't about imposing more restrictions, such as limiting days and times, but rather embracing flexibility. In this session, University of California, Santa Barbara and Central Washington University will explore the benefits of group tours, such as increasing visitor count, engaging with prospective students, and expanding outreach to diverse student populations.
Serving 25,000+ students, UC Santa Barbara provides over 400 group tours and hosts more than 16,000 visitors annually At a campus size of 10,000, CWU hosts over 200 group visits, including middle schools, with 10,000 visitors annually While we may employ different strategies for group visits, both institutions agree that by shifting from a mindset of restriction to one of adaptability, institutions can better serve prospective students and foster a more engaging campus experience. Attendees will leave with practical insights on maximizing organizational efficiency and student engagement when handling group visits.
Thursday, May 29 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Lucy Bauer, Macalester College Trade
Feedback. Whether giving it or receiving it, feedback can often feel big, scary and intimidating. But what if it didn't have to? In this session, I'll talk about ways you can foster a team culture that embraces open and honest feedback Whether it's giving feedback up (to your leaders), across (to your peers) or down (to people you mentor or supervise), feedback doesn't need to be so intimidating This session is for anyone who would like to stop fearing feedback and start learning to speak more honestly and openly with their colleagues
Samantha Hannah, College of Science, Virginia Tech
Uptown II
We are familiar with campus-wide events where students get a taste of what a university has to offer, but there is a limit to what a prospective student can experience during those large-scale events. How can we provide students with a more in-depth, personalized opportunity to see themselves as a student within your institution? The answer is Academic Department Preview Days! Academic Department or Major Preview Days (as we call them at our college) allow prospects to envision themselves as a student in a specific program It's a great way to communicate with, recruit, and yield prospective students. Academic Departments are invested in recruiting students and these events allow campus partners to be more involved in sharing their programs with prospects. Major Preview Days are customizable based on what a department can feasibly offer. Lab tours, eating lunch with current students, sitting in a lecture, and meeting with advisors are all avenues that can make-up a Major Preview Day. The College of Science at Virginia Tech pioneered Major Preview Days at our university. Since our academic departments began hosting these events, we have seen increased applications and acceptances linked to event attendance. This session will discuss the difference between campus-wide recruitment events and Major Preview Days, how these two events can go together to improve the visit experience, and provide a toolkit to help others start implementing their own Major Preview Days.
Thursday, May 29 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Austin Rogers, Southeastern Louisiana University
Stephanie Funderburg, San Jacinto College
Lori Eisenhour, Drury University
Uptown I
Whether you’ve read the book or are new to the concept, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas to elevate your institution’s campus visit program and make every visitor feel genuinely welcome We’ll share realworld examples of how our institutions have infused a hospitality mindset into staff training, ambassador programs, and the planning and execution of in-person events.
Join us to discover how hospitality can turn an ordinary visit into an extraordinary experience
Rachel Anderson, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Joey Tamburo, University of California, Los Angeles
Providence I
The campus visit experience is a complex process on an ideal day, but when weather, emergencies, or a 2 week encampment alters those plans, that is when we can expect the unexpected As situations happen and new information is available, it’s our job to share the best information quickly, clearly, and authentically
We will share best practices to consistently take in information from campus and the local community while advocating for students’ safety, health, and mental capacity.
Bringing in 2 public institutions in the Big Ten Conference, our services, crises, and responses differ greatly while both striving to support access and advocacy within higher education.
Thursday, May 29 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Paul Campbell, James Madison University
Kelli Barnette, University of Virginia
Uptown III
Have you ever gotten that call that you just dreaded from a donor, an alum, or the President’s Office telling you your group was in trouble? Want to know what you can do if it does happen?
You will briefly hear what happened with two institutions whose volunteer student tour guide organizations had to face that type of situation and we will walk through our steps from the point of discovery of cultural problems within our organizations through rebuilding and reframing of our tour guide programs. We will share what we learned from our respective situations to provide a framework that you could use We will guide you through the decisions for next steps that we took, both within our offices and including campus partners, as well as the outcomes on our respective campuses. We will discuss things we wish we had done from the start, and what did not work in the process. At the end of the day, all organizations, whether volunteer or even paid students, can fall into habits that lead to challenging circumstances, and it remains our responsibility to help groups avoid them and bounce back when they occur
Elizabeth Franks, California Institute of the Arts
Harris
California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) currently has a student population of about 1,500, meaning everything is scaled smaller around here including our Student Ambassador program In this interactive presentation, participants will explore the ways CalArts approaches recruiting, training, managing, and retaining a team of 10-15 paid student workers, which is definitely a work-in-progress. As we work to build a more organized and sustainable Student Ambassador program, we face ongoing challenges including navigating budget constraints and constantly evolving goals and directives. Most importantly, we seek to preserve the legacy of the CalArts Admissions “Tour Guide” and balance history, tradition, and what makes CalArts students and our community so unique with policy and best practices. Through exploration of the challenges we face, and practical examples and insights including our own trial and error, this session aims to provide Admissions teams, especially those at similarly small schools, with ideas to build and sustain a highly effective team of Student Ambassadors in any setting
Thursday, May 29 | 2 - 2:45 p.m.
Brandon McDonald, Penn State
Owen Posey, Western Kentucky University
Providence II
Looking for a new, collaborative, innovative, different, etc. way to train your ambassadors? 2 different institutions from across the country (Penn State and Western Kentucky) recognizing the need for a fresh, dynamic approach to professional development, we held a cross-institutional conference aimed at breaking down traditional training silos and fostering real-time collaboration among diverse academic and professional communities We held student conferences aimed at connecting student groups to each other, institutional partners, and campus resources - learn what we did, why we did it, and how it can benefit your programs too!
Ilana Ciccone, St. John’s University
Providence III
Join us for a presentation on the development and evolution of the Student Ambassador Tour Management Portal This session will provide an in-depth look at how our team implemented a comprehensive system to streamline tour management and enhance the student ambassador experience. Through this session, attendees will gain valuable insights into the iterative development process, key challenges encountered, and lessons learned. We will explore how this implementation has streamlined our student ambassador tour guide program management, paving the way for a more efficient and cohesive experience Come along on our journey from the first iteration to the third iteration and where our future will take us
Alexandra Shugart, University of Cincinnati
Carly Crosthwaite, University of Cincinnati
Tryon
As Gen Z begins to take the reins in the workplace, it is essential to bridge generational gaps to gain a better understanding of how to work together and grow Every generation differs greatly from the last, but how do we navigate those changes? How do we grow an individual that differs from us? How do we create new ways of interacting with our employees? These gaps can lead to poor communication and a lack of understanding, making people feel unheard and uncollaborative. Learn how tools like meaningful feedback, mentorship, upskilling, and recognition can help others "glow up". This session will cover how to work with and grow Gen Z professionals so your office can SLAY! Our goal is to give you the tools to communicate better with your Gen-Z staff and emphasize embracing differences rather than just working through them
Thursday, May 29 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Delisa Johnson, University of South Alabama
Ashleigh Salle, University of South Alabama
Uptown II
This session is designed for a diverse audience, including new professionals striving to define their office culture and seasoned professionals seeking to transform or re-establish an improved office After a major restructuring, our office was left with a culture that no longer served our growing team or changing goals. While our journey didn’t lead us straight to the mountaintop, we succeeded in creating a culture that we are now proud to embrace.
Focusing primarily on student staff though applicable to professional teams—we will share strategies for navigating change, building resilience, fostering accountability, and cultivating positive team morale We will also highlight the improvements we made to our recruitment, onboarding, training, evaluation, and communication processes
At its core, this session is about how a small group of professionals, dedicated to their people, tackled a pressing cultural challenge to become a more effective and cohesive team Participants will leave this session with practical insights and strategies for addressing similar challenges within their own teams.
Kalee Castanon, Texas A&M University
Providence I
When planning an open house event, it can be tough to coordinate so many moving pieces. From working with partners, to space planning issues, to weather concerns, it takes a lot to host a successful preview day.
With over 400 sessions offered, and more than 25,000 registrants, Aggieland Saturday is possibly the largest open house in the country! But it didn’t start out that way. We’ll talk about ways we’ve upgraded the experience over the past few years and gotten more students interested in attending
Learn how we manage scheduling, from centralized spaces to sessions hosted across campus, and no fewer than seven different resource fairs. From demonstrations to performances to facility tours, learn how we go beyond traditional "Powerpoint presentation" sessions to offer families a unique and dynamic way to experience our university Get advice for showcasing out-of-the-box programs such as an all-student vendor fair hosted by our entrepreneurship center, a presidential welcome session, a parade across campus with our university band, resource tables for off-campus apartments, and more.
Thursday, May 29 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Molly Rogowski, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Uptown III
Planning and executing group tours at a large-scale university (20,000+ undergrads) can feel like herding cats The challenges of juggling logistical coordination, scheduling complexities, and crafting engaging experiences often leave organizers’ heads spinning Yet, group tours are vital and offer an exciting opportunity to showcase your institution to leave visitors inspired, and wanting to return
This session will equip participants with mindful strategies to identify and manage key logistical components of tour planning such as juggling multi-group tour days, design tailored and engaging activities that elevate the tour experience, such as student panels or behind the scene college specific tours, and implement best practices for maintaining safety and accountability for groups while on campus (train tour guides to know what to do in an emergency!) You’ll learn how to leverage existing tools and resources to create dynamic, memorable group tours without losing your mind And maybe you will even learn to collaborate with the Athletics Department (I said MAYBE!) Whether you’re at a small college or a sprawling university, you can benefit from these practical, creative approaches to group tour management!
Ryan Lee, California Lutheran University
Harris
Working in a college admissions office is not your typical on-campus job. Student employees are often tasked with a variety of responsibilities such as campus tours, database management, answering phone calls and emails, and so much more Within the hustle and bustle of office routines, treating everyday operations as simple checklist items can be easy. The question for student supervisors is, “How can we be intentional and forward-thinking when it comes to our student staff? What steps can be taken to contribute to their professional growth and ultimately, provide them with exceptional work experiences?”
With an ever-changing office of staff transitions, admission cycle challenges, and academic obstacles, office culture is more than ever a key part of employee morale and retention. Fostering an uplifting work environment is beneficial for students and supervisors alike. Join us as we discuss how to increase retention, implement professional development opportunities and leverage your office environment to create more impactful visits Above all, a supportive and inclusive work culture, where individuals feel valued both professionally and personally, leads to higher levels of satisfaction and loyalty
Thursday, May 29 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Breezy Landman, Rice University
Samantha Hannah, College of Science, Virginia Tech Trade
Academic college staff play a critical, yet often underutilized, role in enhancing prospective student recruitment efforts. While faculty are traditionally seen as key ambassadors of academic programs, staff members such as academic advisors, program coordinators, and student support specialists—can provide valuable insights and connections that enrich the recruitment and campus visit process. However, their involvement often comes with concerns about adding to their already full workloads. This presentation will explore strategies to engage academic college staff in recruitment activities in a way that is both effective and sustainable By streamlining their involvement through clear communication, collaboration, and leveraging existing events, staff can play a valuable role in showcasing academic programs, student support resources, and career opportunities without significantly increasing their workload Attendees will learn how to integrate academic staff into events like program-specific tours, information sessions, and meet-and-greets, while maintaining a balance between recruitment efforts and their regular responsibilities The session will also highlight how to create scalable initiatives, use collaborative technologies, and focus on tasks that align with staff members' expertise to ensure an efficient, manageable partnership. By the end of the presentation, participants will have practical strategies for involving academic college staff in recruitment efforts in a way that enhances the student experience while respecting their time and resources.
Samantha Carroll, University of Cincinnati Providence III
Do you ever wish you could wave a wand and have the data from your events and visits summoned to you? Ever feel like placing a curse on your computer when working on a query? Join us for a mystical exploration into Slate queries and how to bend them to your will
This session is designed to (re)introduce Slate queries as it relates to visits and events, with opportunities to follow along with a query build Working together, we will learn how to collect information from our Slate events without ever manually counting a show rate Don't have query access? We got you - learn what to request Common phrases, best practices, tips and tricks, and perhaps close up magic will be provided! The class will also be provided handouts for future query adventures.
Please note: this session is intended for beginning and intermediate levels. Bring a laptop!
Thursday, May 29 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Sarah Mundi, Cal Poly Humboldt Providence II
Do you have a lot of 8th - 12th-grade student events and visits on campus? Are you looking to engage with 8th - 12th-grade students through interactive programming? Try games!
Join Cal Poly Humboldt’s Admissions Events Specialist, Sarah Mundi, on a journey to facilitate interactive games within educational presentations and campus tours. Attendees will get a crash course in leading games, as well as three ready-to-use fillable game facilitation templates. The crash course covers strategies for explaining directions and handling adversity in student engagement and participation Sarah will cover the structure of each game, including the materials, recommended applications, and her recent experience leading these games.
Games include - Humboldt Trivia, Guess the Major, The Price is Right: College Edition, and two versions of a Campus Tour Scavenger Hunt. Ready, Set, Game!
Grace Johnson, Advent
Toby Marlatt, University of Wyoming
Tryon
Your visitors’ experience isn’t just about the space it’s about the story they step into At the Marian H Rochelle Gateway Center, the University of Wyoming Foundation and Advent partnered to create an experience that immerses guests in the Cowboy legacy from the moment they walk in But storytelling doesn’t require a full-scale buildout it starts with understanding the moments that make your institution special.
In this session, we’ll break down Leo Burnett’s equation: relevance + involvement + enjoyment = persuasion and show how it applies to your visitor experience. Learn practical strategies to uncover and highlight the stories that matter whether through student ambassadors, digital touchpoints, or the physical environment Walk away with simple, repeatable exercises you can use with your team to ensure your visitors don’t just hear your story—they feel it
Diamond sponsors for the 2025 CIVSA Annual Conference have an opportunity to co-present with a member institution This session is not an endorsement by CIVSA of a specific organization or sponsor
Thursday, May 29 | 4:15 - 5 p.m.
Cassandra Chmielewski, Concordia University Wisconsin
Lydia Nuechterlein, Concordia University Wisconsin
Uptown I
Creating and maintaining a student team that offers growth and leadership opportunities can be intimidating, but by adding structure and fostering community you can achieve a desirable position for students without Sticking to the Status Quo Join us to find out how two professionals (turned co-workers, friends, and roommates) are Breaking Free to elevate Concordia University Wisconsin’s Student Ambassador program and expand student development opportunities.
We will discuss how we strategically implemented a student leadership team that recruits, trains, and fosters community amongst our Student Ambassadors. Learn how to further engage your students with unique experiences such as a training retreat, a student-nominated recognition program, an online orientation course, and consistent team meetings that ultimately gets your team’s Head in the Game and builds community.
Don't miss this opportunity to Bop to the Top and transform your student team. The Start of Something New will create a Fabulous community that improves the quality of your program and keeps students engaged, returning year after year
Friday, May 30 | 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.
Logan Haller, University of Iowa
Emily Coffee, Northwestern University
Providence II
We know that student staff are the key to effective and engaging prospective student programming, but how can institutions effectively develop, support, and sustain a large team of student staff? At the University of Iowa and Northwestern University, we’ve found success in elevating tour guides into leadership roles that not only strengthen our programs but also prepare students for their futures. In this session, we’ll share how our distinct but complementary approaches have helped us train, retain, and empower student leaders whether through formal positions like Tour Guide Coordinators and Admissions Representatives or informal development opportunities. We'll explore strategies for creating leadership roles, training transferable skills, and maintaining continuity across class years to reduce professional staff workload Attendees will leave with practical takeaways on how to scale student leadership for institutions of any size We’ll conclude with a Q&A to discuss challenges, successes, and best practices for sustainable student leadership in campus tour programs.
Paul Hovey, Fairfield University
Nathan Cheesman, New Mexico State University
Mel Baxter, Southern Methodist University
Trade
This session, presented by members of the CIVSA Standards Committee, will discuss the updates from the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS), provide an overview of CAS General Standards and the Campus Visit and Information Services functional area standard, and allow for a discussion about the use of these standards in your workplaces.
Friday, May 30 | 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.
Amidst the Chaos: Navigating Campus Events in Uncharted Territory
Lauren Mann, Moravian University
Khloud Assran, Moravian University
Tryon
Higher education is facing a rapidly changing landscape challenged by the demographic cliff and campus infrastructure disruptions. At Moravian University, we’ve turned these challenges into opportunities for growth, innovation, and enhanced collaboration In this session, we’ll share how we transformed our event planning process and strengthened campus partnerships to maintain student engagement and success Participants will gain actionable insights on how to:
1. Foster Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Discover how to transform event planning into a cohesive, team-driven effort, engaging stakeholders across campus to align events with the broader institutional mission
2 Build Lasting Campus Relationships: Learn how to cultivate strong, ongoing partnerships with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders, using feedback and shared goals to strengthen both event success and student engagement.
3. Create Innovative Solutions to Logistical Challenges: Explore creative strategies to overcome disruptions like losing central event spaces, ensuring that events continue to run smoothly and inclusively for all prospective students
4 Cultivate Resilience and Adaptability: Gain practical tips on staying calm and productive amidst chaos, using uncertainty as a springboard for innovation in event planning.
By the end of the session, attendees will leave equipped with the tools to navigate disruptions, build stronger relationships, foster inclusivity, and create impactful events—ultimately enhancing their campus community’s engagement and success.
Friday, May 30 | 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.
Terry Jackson, West Virginia University
Providence III
Congratulations, you are now a manager! You’ve got people, students, and an office depending on you. Don’t forget those university goals and the visitors, we can’t forget about the visitors!
Being a people leader is hard work and often managers suffer from burnout, depression, and anxiety at their 9-5 (who are we kidding, we all work more than that!)
This session will provide participants an opportunity to spend some time focusing on their own wellbeing led by a recovering empath Through visiting mindfulness techniques attendees will leave the session with new skills to tackle some of the more stressful moments of their work. We’ll tackle meditation, mindful conversation, and self-reflection in a meaningful way, applied directly to our work.
Believe it or not, one of the best things a leader can do for their own team is to focus on their own wellbeing from time to time. You deserve this time!
Caeli Koizumi, Loyola Marymount University
Providence I
Each year, a new set of student workers are welcomed into the office. They are fresh-faced, dewy-eyed, and eager to take on their first year of working in admission Simultaneously, you also welcome back a set of students with at least a semester of experience who have “seen it all” While some returners or program veterans emerge as peer leaders in the program, unfortunately, many students can easily fall into the trap of complacency or the dreaded, “returner-itis." These students may be lacking some of the motivation they initially felt when they first started. So, how do you actively engage your returning students and support their continued enthusiasm in their role?
With this question in mind, I sought to implement policies and opportunities to support returning guides’ sense of agency and responsibility within our tour program, consisting of 75 paid tour guides. In this session, we will explore instituting a clear role for returning guides in the certification process for new guides, developing points of training that highlight the expertise of returning guides, and identifying special opportunities that reward the experience of returning guides. This session will also offer a discussion of how strategies can be adjusted to volunteer-based programs or programs of varying sizes.
Friday, May 30 | 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.
Emma Alvarado, Daemen University
Uptown I
In today's landscape of higher education, small institutions face numerous challenges including limited staffing, budget constraints, and shrinking demographics. This session explores strategies to help your small institution stand out by creating an unforgettable and memorable campus visit experience. Learn practical, impactful details to enhance student visits, use budget resources effectively, and empower your tour guides to leave a lasting impression on prospective students.
Moderator: Keisha Jordan, Valencia College Panel: Carnard Johnson, Valencia College; La’Tasha Graham, Valencia College; Michelle Sanchez, Valencia College Grand Ballroom
This session will explore how visitor programs can foster a more inclusive and accessible environment for all prospective students Through a panel discussion featuring professionals with varied experiences, attendees will gain actionable insights into enhancing recruitment efforts and campus events for underrepresented groups, including non-traditional and disabled students. The session will address the challenges and opportunities of creating programs that prioritize accessibility and representation, equipping participants with strategies to implement changes at their own institutions. Interactive discussions and a Q&A will ensure participants leave with practical tools and ideas to build a welcoming campus atmosphere for diverse student populations.
Sarah Bundschuh, University of Delaware
Debra Paraskiewicz, University of Delaware
Harris
Are you wondering how to utilize digital tools to enhance your visits and events? Join the University of Delaware as we engage in discussion around how we incorporate data and marketing campaigns from Slate to streamline the registration, coordination, and assessment of on-campus events. During this session, we will focus on our group visits and counselor fly-in programs We rely on community partnerships, high school counselors, and data-informed reporting to identify groups that align with our recruitment and expansion goals. The coordination of campus partners, logistics, ambassadors, and guest needs is one-stop-shop in the dynamic ways we use Slate
Friday, May 30 | 9:45 - 10:30 a.m.
Gillian Stine, University of Florida
Uptown II
Planning events on your campus can be challenging, but what happens when you want to hit the road and meet students where they are? In this session, we’ll cover the fundamental components of planning and executing an off-campus event and the areas where the University of Florida encountered issues while planning 28 events in an academic year You’ll learn about the different types of off-campus events and how you can select the right location and venue options based on your group size and event needs. Additionally, we'll discuss working with and negotiating external contracts, coordinating staff coverage, transportation, and logistics, enhancing the off-campus atmosphere with school spirit and programming, and developing contingency plans to address challenges. Covering the process from beginning to end, this session is great for new professionals in visitor services who are planning these events as well as seasoned professionals interested in bringing off-campus events to their institution With this session, anyone can go the distance!
You’re the Host! How to Enhance Your Welcome Center and Its Experience
Michael Luna, University of Oregon
Uptown III
The space where you host campus visits is more than just a venue it tells a story about your institution. For the past three years, the University of Oregon (UO) has been crafting unforgettable experiences for visitors at the Student Welcome Center, the starting and ending location for campus tours. This center was thoughtfully designed to make visitors feel like they’ve truly arrived home, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. But how does the UO extend this theme of "Welcome Home" into the Welcome Center and seamlessly weave it throughout the entire visitor experience while showcasing the best of what the university offers to prospective students? In this session, we’ll dive into the innovative strategies and projects the University of Oregon uses to create a cohesive, impactful visitor experience. From training welcome center staff to curating interactive installations and activations, you'll learn practical ways to elevate your own welcome center, ensuring it is both memorable and efficiently run Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how to transform every moment of your campus visit into a powerful reflection of your institution’s values and spirit.
Friday, May 30 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
Nathan Cheesman, New Mexico State University
Amanda Adler, New Mexico State University
Uptown I
On many campuses, offices of Admissions can feel like a silo since we work predominately with prospective students But what if we weren’t a silo and rather an active campus partner? From the Honors College to academic colleges and departments, to athletic teams and student services, we can work with everyone on campus! Just as “retention is everyone’s job,” so is recruitment and making sure that our visitors find their sense of belonging at our universities. When students and their families visit campus, it is not just to talk to admissions They could be visiting for Research & Creative Activities Week, a music tournament, or an athletics camp By having an involved and collaborative relationship with these events and those who host them, we have the opportunity to bring information from all sources during their ‘nonadmissions’ visits Being active campus partners can help those future students discover the infinite possibilities for their success throughout all parts of their collegiate experience Join staff from admissions and student life to discuss how being comprehensive allies of each other, and of our academic partners, helps to provide seamless information and care for our prospective students and their supporters.
Angeni Worley, Lynn University
Uptown III
Campus visit professionals play a vital role in shaping first impressions of universities, but the demands of constant engagement, rigorous schedules, and managing high expectations of admission can take a toll on mental health Join me, a 3-year experienced Campus Visit Coordinator and a current Clinical Mental Health Counseling student, to explore practical strategies for prioritizing self-care and fostering mental wellness in the office and at home to sustain energy, boost enthusiasm, and build resilience in our fastpaced world We will learn how to reduce stress, set boundaries, and cultivate a culture of wellness within your office and team Take away with you: mindfulness techniques and ideas to integrate mental health awareness into your work and personal life and within your team. Let's ensure that as we support prospective students and families, we also prioritize our well-being, because a healthy campus visit team leads to more meaningful campus experiences for everyone
Friday, May 30 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
Taylor Cole, The University of Texas at San Antonio
Belinda Saldana Harmon, The University of Texas at San Antonio Trade
This session, hosted by The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), focuses on the crucial role higher education institutions can play in fostering a college-going culture, particularly among elementary and middle school students Research shows that early exposure to higher education can significantly shape students' academic aspirations and instill a long-term college-going mindset
The session will explore the benefits of engaging K-8 students in hands-on, college-oriented activities that help spark curiosity, encourage career exploration, and motivate students to envision a future in higher education Participants will learn to meet the specific developmental needs and interests of younger students while also supporting their families in navigating educational pathways.
Through real-world examples, UTSA will highlight the significance of collaboration between local schools, community organizations, student mentors, and campus partners to enhance the reach and effectiveness of K-8 outreach efforts Attendees will walk away with practical strategies, program ideas, and best practices for developing and maintaining successful initiatives that inspire students to not only aspire to attend college but also take meaningful steps toward achieving their goals.
Noah Starbuck, University of Colorado Boulder
Providence II
Have you asked yourself, why do the students keep falling asleep in my info sessions? Well, this presentation aims to equip campus tour coordinators with the latest insights and practical strategies to maximize high school students' engagement during campus visits. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of recent educational research on high school students' attention spans and engagement levels Through presentation and interactive activities, participants will learn how to capture and maintain students' interest throughout the visit By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with actionable strategies to enhance the overall effectiveness of campus visits, fostering a deeper connection between high school students and the educational institutions they explore
Friday, May 30 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
Torii Masinsin, Elon University
Noah Orr, Elon University
Providence III
In the high-stakes game of university admissions, tour guides are key players in shaping the first impression of campus Like in the hit reality television show Survivor, campus visits are full of surprises. At Elon, we have learned that the secret to weathering the storm lies in creating opportunities for students to become co-collaborators in the tour guide program, allowing them to voice their feedback and play an active role in shaping the campus visit experience
In this session, we will share how we have integrated students into our decision-making process, allowing us to play the game more strategically while still respecting the needs of our office. Think of it as forming an alliance: by treating our students as essential partners, we have seen an increase in engagement, retention, and satisfaction in our program our "immunity idols" for success.
But every alliance comes with its challenges. We will discuss the advantages we have found, the blindsides we have encountered along the way, and the “million dollar questions” we are asking to continue evolving our program. Join us for an inside look at how we have formed a Survivor-worthy team that is helping us outwit, outplay, and outlast the admissions season Survivors, ready?
Emme Mount, Kansas State University
Uptown II
We always want to see an increase in visitors, but sometimes the solution is not just increasing the registration capacities for events We face limitations in staff, resources, and other essential tools to intentionally host visitors on campus How can we think creatively to increase our visitor capacity with the tools we have? This session will include reflection on our past experiences that led to the creation of special visit experiences, a reimagined structure for a daily visit component to increase capacity and discussion on why these new events were impactful to the overall campus visit experience as well as their sustainability for staff Time will be allotted for a discussion on how session attendees have been creative to increase capacity for their visits or events. This will be a great opportunity to bounce off others and identify positives and challenges This session is for new or returning professionals that work on daily campus visit experiences and/or supervise professional and student staff that participate in the daily coordination of these events.
Friday, May 30 | 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.
JR Rabago, Seattle University
Providence I
This workshop equips Student Worker Supervisors with strategies to cultivate an engaging environment that inspires student ambassadors to pursue careers in admissions. Attendees will learn how to foster growth through mentorship and develop key skills through real-world examples of how our students have supported professional staff Whether you're building a talent pipeline or enhancing professional development, this session provides practical insights to prepare the next generation of admissions professionals
Brittany Hecht, Colorado State University
Tryon
How do you keep your team organized and on track when your institution hosts multiple events and hundreds of visitors each month? How do you avoid being overworked and stressed? Join us as we journey through the ins and outs of Microsoft Planner You'll learn how to use this tool to increase team collaboration, communication, and productivity. We'll demonstrate effective ways to incorporate this tool among all staff members whether they're students or directors. You'll be hosting successful, exciting events in no time!
Mallory Maggi, Ozarks Technical Community College
Harris
This session will include information about finding special populations to reach out to, developing programming for their events, and activities that benefit special populations. Today's Specials is for people who are looking to increase their special programming and develop new recruitment events for their offices. There will be a large focus on how to reach the special populations. During the presentation, I will provide details about the programming for our Home School Open House, College Preparation Awareness Day, and 8th Grade Education Day. I will also provide real feedback and statistics on the success of the special events we have hosted on our campus.
DID YOU KNOW?
King George III named Charlotte after his wife, Queen Charlotte - hence the nickname “The Queen City”.
The Charlotte Mint was the first branch of the United States Mint - it is now home to one of the largest mint museums in the South.
The city motto is “Charlotte’s got a lot!” - read ahead to see a sampling of some of the things you can do while at conference!
Morning Activities Let’s Get Physical!
Thursday, May 29 at 7 a.m.
Uptown I
Zumba with Emily Stanley (Lasell University)
This 30-minute, dance-based workout will get your blood pumping and your booty jammin’! All you need is comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes
Friday, May 30 at 7 a.m.
Depart from hotel lobby
Run with CIVSA Colleagues
Lace up your running shoes and explore the city! This run will follow a 3 3 mile loop, circling Latta Park. Walk with CIVSA Colleagues
Those preferring a slower pace will follow a 1.3 mile loop, hitting Luminous Lane and Romare Bearden Park. There are several coffee shops along the way to kickstart the last day of Annual Conference.
Evening Activities
Depart from hotel lobby
Mealtime Meetups provide a relaxed opportunity for attendees to connect, network, and build relationships outside of educational sessions.
Wednesday, May 28 at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner groups will be organized based on cuisine preferences, allowing attendees to connect with others who share similar tastes while exploring local dining options This is a perfect opportunity to get something to eat before heading to one of our Museum Tours at 6:30 PM!
Thursday, May 29 at 5:30 p.m.
Attendees will be encouraged to dine with their CIVSA Connection Groups, providing an opportunity to build relationships in a relaxed setting We’ll remain flexible and adjust as needed based on participation and interest
Museums, Meals, and more!
Museum Tours
Depart from Grand Promenade
Wednesday, May 28 at 6:30 p.m.
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture
The Mint Museum - Uptown
Independence
Thursday, May 29 at 7 p.m.
Feeling inspired after seeing the murals on Luminous Lane and/or visiting some of Charlotte’s amazing art museums? Or maybe you’re looking for a great way to decompress and spend some time with your new CIVSA friends Either way, please join the Spirit & Traditions Subcommittee for a relaxing evening of painting. Paint, brushes, and watercolor paper will be provided–all you need to bring is your imagination
The tradition continues! Each day, a letter in “CIVSA” will appear somewhere in the hotel spaces utilized during the conference. When you find the letters, take a selfie with each! Once you collect selfies with all 5 letters, make a photo collage spelling “CIVSA” or submit all five photos at once under the “Photo Scavenger Hunt” tab in Guidebook All submissions must be received by 12 p m on Friday in order to be entered into a raffle to win
So many mascots - one representing every institution in attendance - here at the Annual Conference! They are hidden around the hotel in the spaces being utilized for the conference
Make sure you're keeping tabs of which mascots you're finding (and the corresponding numbers on each mascot)! There will be a quiz in Guidebook to fill out no later than 12 p m on Friday to be entered into a raffle to win
January 8-10, 2026
We invite you and your student staff to join us for this unique student-driven experience, including educational sessions, networking opportunities, campus visits, a keynote speaker, and so much more!
Our host hotel will be the Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center, located at 375 NE Holladay St in Portland The rate will be $159/night plus tax for single or double occupancy.
Registra
What is a CIVSA Mentor? A mentor is a seasoned and reliable counselor who offers guidance and
support to others.
In the 2024-25 year, 40 CIVSA mentors volunteered their time to assist over 50 mentees through the CIVSA Mentorship Program. The Member Relations Committee is incredibly appreciative of our mentors' time and the commitment they have given, not only to their mentees but to the CIVSA Association as a whole Over the past year, mentors have empowered their mentees to develop, learn, and confidently accomplish goals they set forth at the beginning of the program Thank you to each CIVSA mentor for serving as a sounding board and being available to offer guidance, encouragement, and wisdom You have made a lasting impact in so many CIVSA members' journeys!
Emma Alvarado | Daemen University
Amy Anderson | Merrimack College
Joy Baillie | Dalhousie University
Mel Baxter | University of North Texas
Nora Beerman | Austin Peay State University
Kate Bellaud | Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Kate Bracciano | Marquette University
Samantha Carroll | University of Cincinnati
Nathan Cheesman | New Mexico State University
Donna Cowley | Jacksonville University
Becky Doran | University of Missouri
Kim Fisher | Bemidji State University
Amber Fitzgerald | Suffolk University
Elizabeth Franks | California Institute of the Arts
Natalie Gay | BYU-Idaho
La’Tasha Graham | Valencia College
Amanda Hammonds | Southeastern Louisiana University
Rebecca Harrington Johnson | University of South Carolina
Christian Heimall | High Point University
Micah Howe | University of Oregon
Riss Langston | University of South Alabama
Bethany Lestochi | University of Miami
Stephanie Lukezic | Carnegie Mellon University
Gracyn Malcolm | St Ambrose University
Denessa McPherson | Berea College
Julee Mitsler | Lindenwood University
Katy Mitton | Lehigh University
Sue Newquist | Lafayette College
Jake Panek | University of Cincinnati
Tyler Pennington | Georgia Gwinnett College
Lexi Petrak | East Tennessee State University
Angie Rankin | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Austin Rogers | Southeastern Louisiana University
Danielle Schlough | Lehigh University
Annette Senesi | Swarthmore College
Rachel Sloan | Allegheny College
David Thomas | Texas State University
Gabrielle Tolentino | Saint Mary's College of California
The CIVSA vision is to partner with higher education professionals to set standards of excellence in the field of information and visitor services.
Our mission is to provide knowledge exchange, research and connections in an inviting arena that builds professional and personal relationships.
Education: The act or process of imparting or acquiring particular knowledge or skills, as for a profession
Connection: Developing sound working relationships in an organization
Involvement: A personal investment in the success of an organization
CIVSA is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all members, member institutions, and students Our Association is proud of its diverse membership from institutions throughout the United States and multiple countries from around the world. We commit to treating all members respectfully, equitably, and with dignity. Upholding the Association’s commitment to being an inclusive organization means that all cultures, races, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, abilities, and countries of origin are embraced and valued
CIVSA stands in solidarity with advocates calling for greater diversity and enhanced inclusion The world faces many challenges that divide us, but what unites us together in this Association is a steadfast commitment to providing knowledge exchange, research and connections in an inviting arena that builds professional and personal relationships.
Although campus information and visitor services programs at institutions of higher education stretch back to the establishment of the Campus Information Office at Boston University in 1925, the beginnings of a professional identity did not begin to develop until the mid 1980s. The first known meeting of professionals in the field was held at Purdue University in 1986, and the group grew to include 15 members by 1990. They were informally named U-VIPs but voted in that year to be named the National Collegiate Visitor Services Association (NCVSA) and began to establish a loosely-organized structure, coordinated through the newly-established visitor center at the University of Maryland-College Park.
After a few years of slow but steady growth, the first national conference of NCVSA was held at the University of Alabama – Birmingham in 1994 with 25 members in attendance By the second conference in June 1995, it was clear that the association needed to broaden its scope and was renamed the Collegiate Information and Visitor Services Association (CIVSA) This name better recognized the broad membership of individuals and programs that provide gateway services to their campus communities.
During the late 1990s and into the early twenty-first century CIVSA officers and members dedicated themselves to increasing the legitimacy of the campus information and visitor services field CIVSA’s first national headquarters was established at Rutgers University in 1997, the annual conference continued with steady growth in participant numbers, and great effort went into the solidification and organization of this new professional association An important development for CIVSA was being offered membership in the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) in 1998, followed by the significant milestone of having CAS approve Campus Information and Visitor Services Standards and Guidelines in 2000.
As CIVSA’s membership began to grow exponentially, the Association continued to expand the benefits provided to its members. The Annual Conference now rotates through a different region each year to maximize the ability for members to attend and is held at a hotel/conference center rather than on a campus to accommodate the large number of participants. Members can connect and share resources with one another through social media and monthly virtual events in addition to the Discourse webforum and the Welcomer newsletter Smaller regional events are organized in addition to the Annual Conference, and the first CIVSA conference aimed at student employees was held at Furman University in January 2014
As the organization increased its visibility in the world of higher education, much thoughtful planning went into behind-the-scenes development as well CIVSA officially incorporated as a non-profit association in 2010 and has established a headquarters independent of a college campus. An Operations Manual was developed to streamline processes and guide newly-elected officials, a formal annual budget was created, and work continues on a Strategic Plan to lead the Association into the future
1994 – University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, Alabama
1995 – Baylor University | Waco, Texas
1996 – Colorado State University | Fort Collins, Colorado
1997 – Cornell University | Ithaca, New York
1998 – University of South Carolina | Columbia, South Carolina
1999 – University of Wisconsin–Madison | Madison, Wisconsin
2000 – Rutgers University | New Brunswick, New Jersey
2001 – Texas A&M University | College Station, Texas
2002 – Indiana University | Bloomington, Indiana
2003 – University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Lincoln, Nebraska
2004 – Yale University and University of Connecticut | New Haven and Storrs, Connecticut
2005 – Brigham Young University | Provo, Utah
2006 – American University | Washington, D C
2007 – University of Notre Dame | South Bend, Indiana
2008 – California State Polytechnic University | Pomona, California
2009 – Boston University | Boston, Massachusetts
2010 – University of Kentucky | Lexington, Kentucky
2011 – San Antonio, Texas
2012 – Denver, Colorado
2013 – Alexandria, Virginia
2014 – Chicago, Illinois
2015 – Nashville, Tennessee
2016 – San Diego, California
2017 – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2018 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
2019 – Portland, Oregon
2021 – Virtual Conference
1995-1997
1997-1998
1998-1999
1999-2000
2000-Dec 2001
Dec 2001-2003
2003-2004
2004-2005
2005-2006
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
2010-2011
President
President-Elect
Immediate Past President
Treasurer
Secretary
Director of Communications Council of Past Presidents
Andrew Cohen | Georgia Institute of Technology
Ilana Ciccone | St John’s University
Julee Mitsler | Lindenwood University
Kelvin Lee | Stanford University
Tiana Hakimzadeh | American University
Owen Posey | Western Kentucky University
Taylor Blair | University of Kentucky (ex-officio)
Wes Sullivan | California Institute of the Arts (ex-officio)
Region I
Region II
Region III
Region IV
Region V
Sandra Vance | Gonzaga University
Stephanie Funderburg | San Jacinto College
Misty Sparrow | Eastern Michigan University
Paul Campbell | James Madison University
Madison Owens | Florida State College at Jacksonville
Matt Weismantel | Rutgers University
Denise Wellman | University of South Carolina
Linda Hardwick | Baylor University
Fran Lane | University of Georgia
Sandy Roberts | University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
Leslie Baumert | University of Oklahoma
Barb Dallinger | Illinois State University
LeAnn Stroupe | University of Missouri
Nancy Franco | Yale University
Troy Selk | Brigham Young University
Tami Tassler | Florida Gulf Coast University
Janey Wheeler | Oklahoma City University
Betty Spengler | University of Maryland
Julian Olivas | Texas Tech University
July 2011
Aug 2011-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016-2017
2017- 2018
2018-2019
2019-2020
2020-2021
2021-2022
2022-2023
2023-2024
Jennifer McGowan | University of Michigan
Stephen Barnett | University of Kentucky
Jenn McKenzie | Hendrix College
Cindy Singley | Auburn University
Jaime Rensel | Arizona State University
Karlene Kunigel | Skidmore College
Tim Lipman | Illinois Institute of Technology
Laura Stansell | University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Rob Patterson | Middle Tennessee State University
Wes Sullivan | California Lutheran University
Taylor Blair | University of Kentucky
Mel Baxter | University of North Texas
Julee Mitsler | Lindenwood University
Communications Committee
Owen Posey | CHAIR | Western Kentucky University
Brittany Dudley-Ray | Berea College
Michelle Howell | Truman State University
Michelene Seabrook | University of South Carolina, Beaufort
Ben Tran | Flagler College
Maddie Wilson | University of Cincinnati
Council of Past Presidents
Taylor Blair | CO-CHAIR | University of Kentucky
Wes Sullivan | CO-CHAIR | California Institute of the Arts
Mel Baxter | Southern Methodist University
Barb Dallinger | Emeritus
Betty Spengler | Emeritus
Denise Wellman | Emeritus
Janey Wheeler | Emeritus
Jenn McKenzie | Hendrix College
Karlene Kunigiel | Emeritus
Laura Stansell | Emeritus
LeAnn Stroupe | Emeritus
Matt Weismantel | Emeritus
Nancy Franco | Yale University
Rob Patterson | Middle Tennessee State University
Stephen Barnett | Emeritus
Tami Tassler | Florida Gulf Coast University
Tim Lipman | Emeritus
Diversity and Inclusion Committee
Keisha Jordan | CHAIR | Valencia College
Aiyana Dancy-Roberts | North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Jordyn Meyer | University of Minnesota Morris
Ruben Nuñez | University of Southern California
Kate Reuter | University of Missouri
Amy Anderson | Merrimack College
Educational Resources Committee
Jordan Glover | CO-CHAIR | Penn State
Terry Jackson | CO-CHAIR | West Virginia University
Steph Gavin | Syracuse University
Jocelyn Huang | University of Texas at Arlington
Danielle Schlough | Lehigh University
Gillian Stine | University of Florida
Governance and Contracts Committee
Jenn McKenzie | CO-CHAIR | Hendrix College
Laura Stansell | CO-CHAIR | Emeritus
Involvement Committee
Shari Foglesong | CO-CHAIR | Truman State University
Emily Stanley | CO-CHAIR | Lasell University
Samantha Buxbaum | Florida State University
Member Relations Committee
Shelby Kuehl | CHAIR | Emory University
Emma Alvarado | Daemen University
Kate Bracciano | Marquette University
Nick Eiginger | West Virginia University
La’Tasha Graham | Valencia College
Philadelphia Zimmermann | Flagler College
Nominating Committee
Julee Mitsler | CHAIR | Lindenwood University
Taylor Blair | Co-Chair of Council of Past Presidents (ex-officio) | University of Kentucky
Wes Sullivan | Co-Chair of Council of Past Presidents (ex-officio) | California Institute of the Arts
Jacque Lish | University of New Mexico, Region I
Aidan Johnston | University of California, Santa Barbara, Region I
Ashley Mitchell | University of Missouri, Region II
Enrique Granados | University of North Texas, Dallas, Region II
Mike Targonski | Valparaiso University, Region III
Mollie Baker | Depauw University, Region III
Laila Drosman | Hofstra University, Region IV
Kyle Andolina | Springfield College, Region IV
Rhonda Beatty | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Region V
Laura Stansell | Emeritus, Region V
Research and Assessment Committee
Whitney Rollerson | CHAIR | University of Southern California
Lindsay Dudley | Florida International University
Angela Fanette | Lamar University
Sharon Lalor | Wilfrid Laurier University
Scholarships Committee
Ashley Mitchell | CHAIR | University of Missouri
Hannah Ford | Rider University
Stephanie Lukezic | Carnegie Mellon University
Gracyn Malcolm | St Ambrose University
Natalie Mann | University of Georgia
Elizabeth Marin | Florida International University
Mark Reeder | The University of Texas at Arlington
Sponsorships Committee
Alex Galbreath | CHAIR | Oregon State University - Cascades
BJ Heidlebaugh | Ohio University
Lindsay LaValley | Mount Holyoke College
Standards Committee
Paul Hovey | CHAIR | Fairfield University
Mel Baxter | Southern Methodist University
Nathan Cheesman | New Mexico State University
Strategic Planning Committee
Julee Mitsler | CHAIR | Lindenwood University
Brian Chaney | Bowling Green State University
Sydney Jones | University of Central Arkansas
Lisa McGrady | Florida State University
Lexi Petrak | East Tennessee State University
Student Development Committee
Katie Holdgreve-Resendez | CHAIR | University of Colorado Boulder
Akilah King | Georgia Southern University
Angela Guidry | University of Houston
Brandon McDonald | Penn State
Breezy Landman | Rice University
Courtney Youngblood | High Point University
Kaely Graham | Arizona State University
Kristin Thomas | Messiah University
Lexi Petrak | East Tennessee State University
Macey Lynch | Virginia Tech
Maddie Hudlow | Mercer University
Quinn Munk | Wichita State University
Rachel Anderson | University of Wisconsin-Madison
Sam Hannah | Virginia Tech
Sarah Splinter | University of Wisconsin-Madison
Tera McDonald | Georgia Institute of Technology
Tyler Pennington | Georgia Gwinnett College
Region I Leadership Team
Sandra Vance | REGIONAL DIRECTOR | Gonzaga University
Bryce Buckley | Front Range Community College
Camille Erskine | University of Oregon
Sarah Mundi | Cal Poly Humboldt
Amy Watters | Thompson Rivers University
Region II Leadership Team
Stephanie Funderburg | REGIONAL DIRECTOR | San Jacinto College
Lori Eisenhour | Drury University
Catherine McGowin | University of Tulsa
Arin Morse | University of Missouri-Kansas City
Austin Rogers | Southeastern Louisiana University
Jennifer Schreiber | Midwestern State University
Region III Leadership Team
Misty Sparrow | REGIONAL DIRECTOR | Eastern Michigan University
Andrea Crilly | Indiana Tech
Rebecca Donovan | University of Kentucky
Tomice O’Brien | Governors State University
Sean O’Melia | University of Wisconsin-Osh Kosh
Angie Rankin | University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Lexi Welch | University of Michigan-Flint
Region IV Leadership Team
Paul Campbell | REGIONAL DIRECTOR | James Madison University
Jess Burkley | Allegheny College
Jennifer Castro | Kutztown University
Kelli Parks | University of Richmond
Carly Signor | Syracuse University
Justine Worthington | The George Washington University
Alyssa Zahoruiko | Merrimack College
Region V Leadership Team
Madison Owens | REGIONAL DIRECTOR | Florida State College at Jacksonville
Ansley Allen | Tri-County Technical College
Carly Bailey | Furman University
Donna Cowley | Jacksonville University
Patrick Frazier | Western Carolina University
Ja’Kira Jackson | Georgia Tech
Delisa Johnson | University of South Alabama
The Nick Kovalakides Outstanding Member Award is named in honor of the dedication and service of Nick Kovalakides, the first national director of CIVSA’s predecessor group, the National Collegiate Visitor Service Association The award is presented annually to an active member who has shown outstanding service, devotion, and support to the success of CIVSA and does not currently serve on the Executive Board. The recipient is selected by the Executive Board from those nominated by the membership and the award is presented at the closing dinner of the Annual Conference each year The Nick Kovalakides Outstanding Member Award is the most prestigious award bestowed by the Association
1995 – Linda Hardwick | Baylor University
1996 – Joel Seligman | Cornell University
1997 – Denise Wellman | University of South Carolina
1998 – Steven Saffian | University of Wisconsin-Madison
1999 – Matthew Weismantel | Rutgers University
2000 – David Watters | Community College of Philadelphia
2001 – Ryan Leigh Runyon | University of South Carolina
2002 – Barb Dallinger | Illinois State University
2003 – Kate Steinbach | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
2004 – Betty Spengler | University of Maryland
2005 – Denise Mercier | Florida State University
2006 – Stephen Barnett | University of Kentucky
2007 – Sherry Case | Colorado State University
2008 – Kim Burdett | University of California Irvine
2009 – Nancy Franco | Yale University
2010 – Donna Bostwick | Florida State University
2011 – Lea Hanson | Colorado State University
2012 – Janey Wheeler | Emeritus, Presidents Council
2013 – Troy Selk | Emeritus, Presidents Council
2014 – LeAnn Stroupe | University of Missouri
2015 – Megan Nassau | American University
2016 – Jennifer McKenzie | Hendrix College
2017 – Wes Sullivan | California Lutheran University
2018 – Lindsey Darling | Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
2019 – Karlene Kunigiel | Skidmore College
2020 – Natalie Mann | University of Georgia
2021 – Ebony Smith | The Ohio State University
2022 – Tim Lipman | Emeritus
2023 – La Dawn Duvall | University of California, Berkeley
2024 – Laura Stansell | University of Tennessee, Knoxville
The Rising Star Award was created to commemorate the 20th Annual CIVSA Conference in Alexandria, Virginia as well as recognize the growing membership of our association The award honors someone who has been a CIVSA member between one and five years and has made an outstanding contribution to the profession of information and visitor services as well as our association.
2013 – Rex Oliver | Texas Tech University
2014 – Nick Gonzales | University of Wisconsin-Madison
2015 – Trent Sandles | Texas Wesleyan University
2016 – Taylor Blair | University of Kentucky
2017 – Annalise Miyashiro | Vanderbilt University
2018 – Julee Mitsler | High Point University
2019 – Mel Baxter | The University of Texas at Austin
2020 – Nick Reffuge | University of Pittsburgh
2021 – Kelvin Lee | Stanford University
2022 – Grace Johnson | University of Kentucky
2023 – Ali Anderson | West Virginia University
2024 – Whitney Rollerson | University of Southern California
The Individual Achievement Award recognizes a collegiate information and visitor services professional for significant achievement at their institution It may be based on a single program, event or a more longterm development/ process that represents a milestone in information or visitor services management
2017 – Olivia McGuckin | Randolph-Macon College
2018 – Barbara Loftus | Rutgers University
2019 – Gavin Waits | Illinois Institute of Technology
2020 – Jayne Reimel | University of California, Santa Barbara
2021 – Heather McFarland | Anne Arundel Community College
2022 – Chris Benavides | South Texas College
2023 – Ashley Mitchell | University of Missouri
2024 – La'Tasha Graham | Valencia College
The Betty Spengler CIVSA Service Award recognizes a CIVSA member who has dedicated significant time in service and volunteerism to CIVSA The member’s service should come in the form of profound support of the association. The CIVSA Service Award was presented for the first time in 2020.
2020 – Eric Brodsky | Adelphi University
2021 – Nicole Levy | Adelphi University
2022 – Megan Adams | University of Louisville
2023 – BJ Heidlebaugh | Ohio University
2024 – Paul Hovey | Fairfield University
Foot Awards are a fun way to recognize conference participants for making an impression during our time together. This impression can be one of fun, leadership, caring, or anything that helped make the conference special. You are encouraged to recommend someone for this award by submitting the nomination form The deadline to submit a nomination is Friday, May 30 at noon
The executive board will consider all recommendations and present the Foot Awards at the CIVSA closing dinner celebration
Nancy Franco | Yale University
Ariadna Coffman | University of Colorado
Colorado Springs
Annette Jelinek | University of St Francis
Natalie Mann | University of Georgia
Betty Spengler | Emeritus
Theresa Wiese | Illinois State University
Jon Augustyn | Cornell University
Mel Baxter | Southern Methodist University
Joe Beltran | University of Southern California
Taylor Blair | University of Kentucky
Mary Pat Blascziek | University of St Thomas
Courtney Bryant | University of Central Arkansas
Kim Emigh | Penn State
Amber Fitzgerald | Suffolk University
Heather Gladys | University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Matthew Harris | Villanova University
Rob Adams | Colorado State University
Amy Anderson | Merrimack College
Traci Andracke | Illinois State University
Wendy Bachman | Gustavus Adolphus College
Joe Bedermann | University of Wisconsin-Madison
Emily Bingham | Western Carolina University
Mariah Bright | University of the Cumberlands
Tom Budge | Florida Atlantic University
Emily Bukow | Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Nathan Burrage | University of Hartford
Arianna Carrillo | The University of Texas at Arlington
Aubriex Cason | Lawrence Technological University
Crissy Causey | University of Tulsa
Nathan Cheesman | New Mexico State University
Shelly Christensen | University of Northern Iowa
Donna Cowley | Jacksonville University
Amberly Cox | University of Minnesota Crookston
Trina Crum | Mount St Mary’s University
Christopher Dahlstrand | University of Central Florida
Deborah DeRosa | Princeton University
Sophie Deutsch | Texas Christian University
Kate Dorman | Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Tammy Duesterhaus | Quincy University
Deneen Dygert | Drake University
Lori Eisenhour | Drury University
Julia Emrich | University of Alabama
Natalie Faculak | Western Michigan University
Diana Feinson | Western Washington University
Tammy Lawson | University of Louisville
Barbara Loftus-Murphy | Rutgers University
Jennifer McKenzie | Hendrix College
Kanani Porotesano | Portland State University
Catie Taylor | University of Evansville
Emily Henken | University of Wisconsin-Madison
Kate Hollister | Emory University
Tony Jackson | University of Kentucky College of Engineering
Erica Mills | Bowling Green State University
Joel Mullner | Carlow University
June Smith | Marquette University
Mike Targonski | Valparaiso University
Juan Villegas | University of California, Merced
Amy Ware | Auburn University
Latrina Fisher | Spelman College
Natalie Foreman | Sam Houston State University
Stephanie Funderburg | San Jacinto College
Chantal Gadoury | Susquehanna University
Nikki Galloway | Wabash College
Javier Garcia | The University of Texas at Austin
Drew Granucci | University of Connecticut
Allie Gravois | MCPHS University
Grant Greenwood | McMurry University
Christina Gunn | University of Nevada, Reno
Allison Heenan | Endicott College
Matt Hermenau | University of Delaware
Eric Hildebrandt | The Ohio State University
Amanda Anderson | Anderson University
Arielle Kilday | Maryville College
Karmin Knopfmeier | Butler University
Lark Krajeski | Suffolk University
Lindsay LaValley | Mount Holyoke College
Don Loewen | Binghamton University
Lavina Martinez | Portland State University
Jennifer Mota | Moorpark College
Kate Murphy | Saint Joseph’s University
Kate Nguyen | University of Toronto
Rose Nguyen | University of Washington
Lauren O'Halloran | Boston University
Lindsey Owens | Gustavus Adolphus College
Owen Posey | Western Kentucky University
Wendy Present | Yavapai College
JR Rabago | Seattle University
Kacy Rader | Illinois State University
Alexandra Rizzo | University of Central Florida
Alex Rocca | University of Alberta
Whitney Rollerson | University of Southern California
Natalie Rooney | Oregon State University
Holly Sager | Concordia College
Cam Saleeby | College of Charleston
Olivia Sandquist | Boise State University
Danielle Schlough | Lehigh University
Cindy Seymour | Kettering University
Aaron Sims | Longwood University
Stephanie Smart | Liberty University
Meagan Specht | Chapman University
Kelsey Stamm | Colorado State University
Rachel Tatge | University of Wisconsin-Madison
Alicia Taylor | Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Brittany Tellez | University of Arizona
Carrie Thompson | Slippery Rock University
Kayla Weathers | University of Southern Mississippi
Kristi Webster | Lawrence Technological University
Elizabeth Zec | Stonehill College
Joe Zumbo | Dean College
My name is BJ Heidlebaugh (he/him), and I have been a dedicated member of CIVSA since 2013 Attending 11 Annual Conferences and 3 SDI Events has greatly enriched my professional journey I have served as Region 3 Director (2018, 2023), chaired the Spirit & Traditions Committee, and contributed to various other committees I was honored with the Foot Award in 2021 and the CIVSA Service Award in 2023
Beyond CIVSA, I served as President of the Ohio University Marching Band Society of Alumni & Friends from 2017 to 2023, where I helped redraft the Constitution & Bylaws and supported the association through challenging times I have also been active in OACAC and NACAC, contributing to conference planning and local arrangements With over 20 years in higher education, I have focused on event management, student supervision, customer service, and public speaking I hold a Master of Education (2012) and a Bachelor of Science in Communication with a minor in Theatre (2000) from Ohio University Currently, I am the Director/Associate Director for Visits & Events in Undergraduate Admissions at Ohio University In this role, I oversee assistant directors, design and execute programs, and maintain positive relationships with campus and off-campus partners My previous roles include Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Ohio University and Coordinator of Admissions On-Campus Operations at Hocking College I am passionate about higher education and student success, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to contribute to these fields
Paul Hovey serves as Director of Transfer Admission and Campus Visit Experience at Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut In this role, he oversees a team of five professional staff members, student ambassador programs, and is responsible for all facets of the visit experience from daily visits to large signature events for admitted students
He has been a member of CIVSA since April of 2016 and attended his first Annual Conference in San Diego that year Beginning in 2017, Paul has served CIVSA in a number o roles, first as a member of an earlier iteration of the Retention Committee and then as a mem Subcommittee for the 2018 Annual Conference In 2021, he began serving on the Standards Committee and has represented CIVSA at the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) since In 2022, he was named chair of the CIVSA Standards Committee and has worked to increase access to visitor services standards for CIVSA membership after recent revisions Paul also serves on the CAS Financial Advisory Committee which reviews monthly financial statements and assists the Governing Board during the organization’s budget process each year. He is the proud recipient of the 2024 Betty Spengler CIVSA Service Award.
Paul holds a BA in political science from the College of the Holy Cross and an MPA from Fairfield University His master’s coursework included classes in financial management and nonprofit management, as well as a quantitative research thesis on local election administration in the State of Connecticut
Shari spent 8 years in the Office of Admission at Truman coordinating all visits and largescale events, managing the Ambassadors, executing Orientation, and serving as CoDirector of Admission Her commitment to delivering high-quality service and creating strong partnerships has led to her current role as Student Engagement, Enrollment, and Marketing Project Manager, overseeing key projects which have included facilitating work with contracted vendors and supporting high-need division operations
Her involvement with CIVSA reflects her value of collaboration and professional development As an active member since 2016, she has served within Region 2 Leadership Team, the Annual Conference (AC) Committee, volunteered, and presented She chaired the AC Publicity & Promotions Subcommittee for Orlando and AC Local Arrangements & Transportation Subcommittee for St. Louis. Currently, she co-chairs the Involvement Committee connecting members’ talents to committees where their contributions are essential to the continued success of the Association This engagement has strengthened her network, transformed her in professional and personal ways, and inspired her to contribute further
In addition, Shari brings strong organizational skills and a collaborative mindset qualities that are essential as CIVSA Secretary Her ability to manage complex projects, communicate effectively, and maintain accurate records will ensure the efficient functioning of CIVSA’s operations
Shari holds a Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration and a Masters of Arts in Leadership Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors (with a goal to log 1000 hours outside this year!), gathering with friends around a meal, indulging in some retail therapy, and cherishing rural Midwest life alongside her husband and children
I was born and raised in a tiny farming town in Ohio and am a proud first-generation college student who embarked on an extraordinary journey of higher education As the sole student from my high school to venture out-of-state for college, I benefited immensely from the guidance of remarkable mentors.
Upon completing graduate school, I returned to my undergraduate alma mater to work in Admissions, where I supervised and managed campus visit programs This role allowed me to give back to an institution that had significantly shaped my undergraduate experience After four years in Admissions, I transitioned to Campus/Student Life, and had the opportunity to work in Greek Life, Leadership, Student Activities, and Orientation Orientation quickly became my favorite, as it provided the launching pad for students' journeys into higher education Life changes eventually brought me to Colorado, where I took on what was initially meant to be a "short-term gig" in Admissions, hoping to return to Orientation However, twelve and a half years later, I continue to thrive in my Admissions role, guiding students through campus visit experiences and helping them find their fit The driving force behind staying in Admissions are the incredible people I work with, the students and families I am able to serve, and the "framily" (friends who become like family) I have found in CIVSA I am beyond grateful for the personal and professional growth opportunities CIVSA has provided, including serving on various conference committees, serving as the inaugural chair of the Involvement Committee, and most recently holding the role of SDI Conference Chair I remain committed to giving back to the CIVSA community that has given me so much!
Austin Rogers has a combined 10 years of experience in Admissions as a full time professional and student worker He currently serves as the Visit & Experience Manager at Southeastern Louisiana University, where he leads the campus tours and manages a team of over 40 student workers between the Visitor Center and Call Center teams
I Leadership Team for CIVSA and has previously worked on the Spirit and Traditions he Amazing Race event in Seattle, as well as serving on the Nominating Committee and r the last two years, he has also mentored new professionals, helping them navigate g within the organization In addition to his involvement with CIVSA, he is currently pursuing a Ph D in Higher Education Administration, with a focus on researching strategies to better recruit adult learners in Louisiana He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeastern Alumni Association where he has helped to implement new programming to engage young alumni in the area He enjoys working with teams and is always looking for new opportunities to challenge himself and others around him.
Paul Campbell is the Associate Director of Admissions at James Madison University
A proud alumnus of both Virginia Tech (BS, Psychology 1991) and James Madison University (MS, Kinesiology 2004), Paul’s career in higher education began as the Head Fencing Coach at James Madison in the fall of 1994 After stops in Athletics, Academic Affairs, Alumni Relations, and Dining (twice), Paul landed in the Office of Admissions in July of 2016
Paul’s current role sees him overseeing all aspects of visitation, access and outreach for the Office of Admissions at JMU, as well as serving as co-advisor to the JMU Student Ambassadors, and on the leadership team in Admissions Paul currently serves as the Region IV Director of CIVSA He was elected in 2024 to this role after chairing the 2024 Annual Conference planning committee He has also held other positions within CIVSA, including Local Arrangements Chair for the 2019 SDI, Programming and Education Chair for the 2021 Annual Conference, and Spirit and Traditions Chair for the 2023 Annual Conference. He has also previously served on the Nominating Committee and the Region IV Leadership team, and was a proud recipient of a Foot Award at the 2022 Annual Conference. Paul is excited at the possibility of continuing to serve the Association as the Region IV Director for a second year, where he hopes to continue growing both the Association and the sense of camaraderie and collegiality within Region IV with more events and communication Outside of work, Paul is an avid golfer, a lifelong fencer, and a voracious reader A complete and utter sports fan, one of Paul’s favorite things is trying to fit in either competing at a fencing tournament, or spectating at professional or college sporting events around any work or CIVSA related travel he can!
My name is Akilah King, and I am the Associate Director of Events and Visitation at Georgia Southern University As a proud double Eagle, my passion for Georgia Southern runs deep!
I began my career with the University in March 2020 as the Coordinator of Events for the Office of Career and Professional Development From there, I transitioned to Continuing Education, where I worked as the Conference Services Manager After about a year in that role and feeling very disconnected from the school I love I decided to apply for my current position Since stepping into the role of Associate Director of Events, I have cherished every moment I’ve been fortunate to make history at Georgia Southern by upgrading many of our event experiences and creating Destination Eagle Nation, the largest on-campus recruitment event in University history.
I became a member of CIVSA in May 2023, and since then, I’ve served on the Annual Conference Local Arrangements and Transportation Committee as well as the SDI Spirits and Traditions Committee I truly love being part of this wonderful organization!
In addition to my long professional title, I also hold the short but meaningful titles of wife and mom I have been married for 20 years (this May!) to my personal hero, Lt Kelcey King, a firefighter with the Bulloch County Fire Department We have three beautiful children Sheridan, Kailyn, and Kelcey Reed, affectionately known as Bubba and one fur grandpup, Kingston, our beloved miniature schnauzer
The newly elected members will join our continuing officers: Ilana Ciccone (President), Andrew Cohen (Immediate Past President), Owen Posey (Director of Communications), Julee Mitsler (Council of Past Presidents Co-Chair | ex officio), and Rob Patterson (Council of Past Presidents Co-Chair | ex officio). All terms will be effective beginning July 1, 2025.
Friday, May 30, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. EDT
I. Order of Business
A Approval of May 2024 business meeting minutes
B. Executive Board reports
1. President - Andrew Cohen (Georgia Institute of Technology)
2 President-Elect - Ilana Ciccone (St John’s University)
3 Immediate Past President - Julee Mitsler (Lindenwood University)
4 Secretary - Tiana Hakimzadeh (American University)
5 Treasurer - Kelvin Lee (Stanford University)
6. Director of Communications - Owen Posey (Western Kentucky University)
7. Council of Past Presidents - Wes Sullivan (California Institute of the Arts) & Taylor Blair (University of Kentucky)
C Regional Director Reports
1 Region I - Sandra Vance (Gonzaga University)
2 Region II - Stephanie Funderburg (San Jacinto College)
3. Region III - Misty Sparrow (Eastern Michigan University)
4. Region IV - Paul Campbell (James Madison University)
5 Region V - Madison Owens (Florida State College at Jacksonville)
D Committee reports
1 Reports will be heard from Committee Chairs requesting the floor by President Cohen All other committee reports are on file with the CIVSA Secretary and uploaded to the Members Only section of the CIVSA website.
E. Election results: Presentation of the tellers report by Julee Mitsler, Nominating Committee Chair
1 Introductions from elected Executive Board members and Regional Directors
a President-Elect - BJ Heidlebaugh (Ohio University)
b Secretary - Shari Foglesong (Truman State University)
c Treasurer - Paul Hovey (Fairfield University)
d. Region I Director - Katie Holdgreve-Resendez (University of Colorado, Boulder)
e. Region II Director - Austin Rogers (Southeastern Louisiana University)
f Region III Director - Special Election
g Region IV Director - Paul Campbell (James Madison University)
h Region V Director - Akilah King (Georgia Southern University)
II. Good of the Order
A. Recognitions
III. Adjournment
This map shows how states and countries are divided into the five CIVSA regions.
Region One
Region Two
Region Three
Region Four
Region Five