Introduction

Over 70 program proposals were submitted from the membership across the region for the roughly 35 programs that will be offered throughout the conference. Accepted programs focus on the conference theme "Changing Times, Enduring Values" while addressing topics of civic engagement, ethics and values, assessment, higher education policy, addressing mental health concerns, hiring staff and many, many more! There a few special programs that are targeted to specific conference attendees. A number of programs will be offered specifically for Senior Student Affairs Officers and other programs will be highlighted for graduate students. Additionally, every session block will have a Featured Program focusing on particularly salient topics related to the changing times of higher education and our profession's enduring value of learning.

Association of Fraternity / Sorority Advisors (AFA) - Presentation

Graduate students who want to learn more about the field of fraternity/sorority advising or are looking for an exciting opportunity to enhance their preparation for a successful career in student affairs need look no further. The AFA Graduate Training Track will complement current graduate education, allow the chance to explore the fraternity/sorority advising profession, and give participants a competitive advantage in today’s job market.

Coordinating Presenter
	Kyle Pendleton Assistant Dean of Students Purdue University kap@purdue.edu
Presenter
	Jennifer Jones-Hall Assistant Dean of Students Valparaiso University

Program Abstract

Many new professionals entering the field of fraternity/sorority advising are not being prepared in their graduate programs for specific fraternity/sorority advising competencies. The Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors’ Graduate Training Track is a unique learning experience that allows participants to apply broader student affairs concepts they have learned in graduate school to the more specific area of fraternity/sorority advising. Additionally, it is important to have a network of supportive colleagues, and the Graduate Training Track helps facilitate the development of such networks.
Graduate students who want to learn more about the field of fraternity/sorority advising and those who are looking for an exciting opportunity to enhance their preparation for a successful career in fraternity/sorority advising need look no further. The AFA Graduate Training Track is designed with graduate student education in mind. The curriculum of this program includes concepts and skills related to the following topics:

• Building community as a new professional
• Focus on national umbrella associations and other constituency groups
• Commitment to creating and advising an inclusive community
• Resources available through AFA & review of AFA’s Core Competencies for Excellence in the Profession
• The overall role of fraternity/sorority advising in higher education

This is an intensive and interactive program. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with new and seasoned fraternity/sorority advising professionals. This program will complement current graduate education, allow the chance to explore the profession, and give participants a competitive advantage in today’s job market. This training is a must for graduate students who work with fraternities and sororities and have not previously participated in this program.