2024 ArSAA Virtual Fall Conference

Breakout Session #1

Room 1
Creating a Coaching Culture: Connecting Success Coaching Programs to Strategic Enrollment Management, Student Success, & Persistence
Dr. Brett Bruner, Assistant Vice President for Student Success & Persistence
Wichita State University

Abstract: Over 20 years ago, success coaching entered the higher education marketplace as a tool provided by third-party vendors to support student success and persistence.  Over the past few years, success coaching has become more institutionalized as colleges and universities have deployed full-time and peer success coaches as an institutional retention strategy.  Merely having success coaches does not ensure student success and persistence.  This session will explore how one institution, with a team of full-time success coaches, has strategically connected success coaching to the institution's and academic college-specific strategic enrollment management and student success and persistence retention plans and practices, resulting in a coaching culture embraced by students, faculty, and staff.

Room 2
Building an Esports Program - From the Ground Up
Sandra Martin, Dean of Housing/Director of Esports
Southern Arkansas University

Abstract: Ever wanted to start an Esports program but have no idea where to start? This session will take you through SAU's evolution from the beginning to having the largest program in Arkansas.  You will learn tips and tricks on how to offer great opportunities for your students, on a small budget.

Room 3
Consequences, Compassion, CARE, and Common Sense
Dr. Veneta Fricks, Associate Dean of Students
University of Central Arkansas

Abstract:  Consequences, compassion, CARE, and common sense are four essential C's in case resolution.  Whether addressing policy violations, mental health concerns, or specialized support needs, these elements are crucial.  While consequences and sanctions are important, understanding each student's unique story is vital.  How can adjudicators balance accountability with compassion? How do we encourage students to use common sense to access resources? This session will engage participants in discussions and scenarios, demonstrating how conduct and CARE professionals can hold students accountable, provide support, and foster self-efficacy, all while maintaining a compassionate approach in their interactions.

Room 4
Immersive Introduction: Enhancing Freshman Engagement and College Readiness
Braden Jones, ATU HESA Teaching Graduate Assistant
Arkansas Tech University

Abstract:  First-year college students enter their first year in higher education with little to no experience navigating a collegiate environment. The first-year experience for students is a critical period for academic and personal development.  Providing students with outlets to access resources on campus through lectures, PowerPoints, and guest speakers is a great way to create awareness of these student success resources but does not ensure action.  Join this session to learn about the immersive approach I have taken during my first year of teaching Tech 1013: Introduction to the University to promote hands-on learning experiences students can only get outside the classroom.

Room 5
Exploring Reasons for Departure from K-12 to Higher Education
Lynnlee Mitchell, Graduate Student for the School of PACE
Arkansas Tech University

Abstract:  Join for an engaging breakout session that explores the transition from K-12 education to higher education.  Attendees will learn a few key reasons why educators make this shift and develop strategies to support new higher education colleagues from K-12 backgrounds.  Participants will discover effective ways to empathize with these former K-12 educators.  Additionally, the session will encourage attendees to evaluate their own motivations for entering higher education, helping them articulate their personal journeys.  By the end, you'll gain insights to foster inclusivity and understanding in your institution, enriching both your practice and your community.

Breakout Session #2

Room 1
Fellows and Institutes and Communities, Oh My!  Strategically Engaging Faculty in Student Success & Institutional Retention Work
Dr. Brett Bruner, Assistant Vice President for Student Success & Persistence
Wichita State University

Abstract: The student experience and belonging are at the core of student success on college and university campuses.  Faculty can and are positively influencing student success and, thus, institutional retention as they strategically engage with students through classroom practices and connecting with individual students.  But how does a campus strategically design experiences to support faculty members through this process?  This session will explore how one urban, public, research university has designed 3 key elements (the Provost's Retention Faculty Fellows, the DFW Institute, and the Shocker Teaching Community of Practice) around the 5 core teaching elements identified by decades of research through the Student Experience Project to positively influence student success and belonging.

Room 2
Engaging the New Third Space
Alexandria Smith-Todd, Assistant Director of Student Affairs
University of Central Arkansas

Abstract: We know our students are in class and at home, but what about the spaces in between?  Sociologists identify three main areas where people spend their time: Home (the "first place"), Work (the "second place"), and the "third place," a neutral ground for building community.  In this session, we will explore the importance of the third place, its transformation over time, and strategies to engage with these evolving spaces to better connect with our students and enhance the level of support we are able to provide in our community.  Join us to discover how to foster meaningful connections int he third place.

Room 3
Student Mental Health Challenges and Administrative Best Practices
Carey Baker, Associate Vice President of Student Services
Southern Arkansas University

Abstract:  This session will address the rise in mental health issues in higher education and the legal and administrative challenges in implementing best practices in the college setting.  The Center for Disease Control reported a 57% increase in suicides in Americans ages 10-24 from 2007 - 2017.  Since that time, Generation Zero has students have faced the challenges of a "phone-based childhood" and the isolation of the Covid-19 pandemic.  These factors have presented new challenges for college administrators seeking to balance legal obligations and providing the best mental health services to students.  This session will specifically address helping students understand the dangers of excessive screen time and the need for transparent mental health leave of absence policy.

Room 4
Shared Success: The Revitalization of ACWHE as a Model for Collaboration
Dana Tribble, Assistant Professor
Arkansas Tech University

Abstract:  The Arkansas Council for Women in Higher Education (ACWHE) faced near dissolution, but through renewed focus and collaboration, the organization has transformed into a thriving network for women across the state. This presentation will explore the strategies and initiatives that led to ACWHE’s revitalization, offering a blueprint for other organizations seeking to strengthen their impact. We will highlight key steps in rebuilding membership, fostering partnerships, and refocusing on mission-driven goals. Attendees will learn how collaboration among women in higher education can create a lasting and resilient network that supports professional growth. ACWHE’s story illustrates how a collective effort can overcome challenges and inspire a renewed sense of purpose. Join us to discover practical ways to revitalize your own organization, focusing on shared success and collaboration for sustainable progress.