Pictured: Some of the New York Tech staff members at the LICSPA 2023 Annual Conference. Clockwise from back left: Daniel Reddington, Tiffani Hinds, Joanne West, Kevin MacBride, Anthony White, Felipe Henao, Harminderjeet Kaur, and Deanna Bertini

Two staff members were recognized for their work as academic and student affairs professionals at the LICSPA 2023 Annual Conference (Long Island Council of Student Personnel Administrators), held on November 9 at Adelphi University. The annual event serves student affairs personnel at institutions across Long Island, New York City, and Westchester.

Nicole Sheehan, director of undergraduate academic advising, received LICSPA’s Senior Individual Excellence Award. Sheehan was recognized for her unwavering commitment to student success, ability to build bridges and collaborate with colleagues, and serve as a role model for professional excellence. Joanne West (M.S. ’10), director of student engagement and development administration and operations, received the prestigious LICSPA Founders Award. This recognition is a tribute to West’s dedicated efforts in fostering impactful partnerships between campuses.

Denee Jenkins presents Nicole Sheehan, LICSPA Individual Excellence Award.

Denee Jenkins, LICSPA president, presents Joanne West with the LICSPA Founders Award.

Additionally, the Offices of Undergraduate Student Success and Advising, Student Engagement and Development, Career Success and Experiential Education, and Admissions showed up in full force at the conference, making significant contributions to the event’s success.

Madeline Leonard, assistant director of academic success and enrichment, served as conference chair, leading seven subcommittees responsible for planning, organizing, and promoting the annual event. More than 200 higher education professionals across 20 schools were in attendance. Leonard worked to foster a supportive space for committee members to share ideas, collaborate, and enhance their skills. Alongside LICSPA members, Leonard aimed to focus the conference theme on impacting the “now” of higher education. Her goal was to give attendees a break from the day-to-day routine by attending a fun and informative networking event as well as provide them with space and time to dive into topics focused on recent policies, to understand generations of students and colleagues, and to build bridges from their current work to transform their impact on campus.

Stephanie Wolcott, senior academic advisor, led the session “Igniting Creativity: Unlock ChatGPT’s Potential in Brainstorming,” demonstrating expertise and enthusiasm in unlocking the full potential of ChatGPT for creative ideation. Wolcott also served on the LICSPA conference planning committee as the conference sessions co-chair.

Tyler Wheelock, senior academic advisor, presented a session titled “Advising Across Borders: Fostering Success for International Students through Campus Collaboration.” With international student numbers climbing back to pre-COVID levels, he asked, “Are we doing enough to support and empower this population to succeed in the American higher education classroom?” Wheelock showcased his commitment to fostering the achievement and well-being of New York Tech students from across the globe through discussions on how to advise and support this student population.

Tiffani Hinds, M.Ed., associate provost for student engagement and development, played a pivotal role in the conference by contributing to a dynamic panel discussion alongside vice presidents of student affairs. The panel delved into the current state of higher education, providing valuable insights into emerging trends that shape the college landscape and impact the student experience. Hinds’ active participation enriched the discussion, offering the audience a nuanced understanding of key issues in student affairs and higher education leadership.

Daniel Reddington, M.A., assistant director of career success, contributed to the execution of the event, serving as the awards committee chair. Reddington collected the award nominations and announced the 2023 winners.

Andy Cornielle, assistant director of career success, served as co-chair of the marketing committee. Cornielle contributed his skills and expertise in videography to capture the day’s events.

Thomas Shea (M.S. ’21), director of undergraduate admissions, served as a member of the sponsorship and raffles committee. Shea worked to connect the conference with local businesses and raffle prizes.

New York Tech’s staff members showcased their talents and interests, highlighting New York Tech’s commitment to leadership, collaboration, and a student-centric approach. In addition, they exemplified unwavering support and excitement for their colleagues’ achievements and endeavors.

This article was contributed by Monika Rohde, M.A., senior associate dean.