Webinar: We’ve Maybe Been Here Before – Lessons Learned and Strategies Gained

In times of uncertainty, college union and student activities professionals have consistently risen to the challenge—whether navigating a pandemic, responding to social unrest, or adapting to shifting student needs. This engaging webinar explores how seasoned practitioners have led through moments of disruption, drawing parallels between past experiences and today’s evolving landscape in higher education. Join us as we reflect on key lessons learned, examine innovative strategies that emerged, and share adaptable practices to help guide your work in a world that continues to redefine what’s “unprecedented.” 

About the Presenters

• Cory Headley serves as the director of student engagement and Surbeck Center at South Dakota School of Mines. He also serve on the ACUI Leadership Team as one of the co-chairs for the DEI Program team. 
• Keith T. Kowalka is the assistant vice president for student affairs – student life at the University of Houston, where he provides strategic leadership for a diverse portfolio of student-focused departments, including the Student Centers, Center for Student Involvement, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Student Media, University Career Services, Student Advocacy and Community, and more. With over 25 years of experience in higher education, Keith is known for his expertise in student engagement, crisis leadership, inclusive practices, and large-scale organizational planning. He has led transformative initiatives such as the $86 million Student Center Transformation, the creation of the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, and the development of a division-wide IT services infrastructure. Keith co-chairs the UH CliftonStrengths initiative, chairs the UH Week of Welcome Committee, served in numerous national leadership roles with ACUI, including two terms on the Board of Trustees. Keith holds a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and dual bachelor’s degrees from the University of Toledo. He is widely respected for his collaborative, student-centered leadership and his commitment to innovation, inclusion, and student success. 
• Debra L. Hammond has over 44 years of experience in higher education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Rutgers University and a master’s in educational administration from California State University–Los Angeles. As executive director of the University Student Union (USU) at California State University–Northridge (CSUN), she led the opening of a $60 million Student Recreation Center, as well as the Pride Center, Veterans Resource Center, and the Oasis Wellness Center. She also initiated a major renovation project that includes a Basic Needs Center featuring a food pantry, community kitchen, clothing closet, and counseling services. Debra served as a faculty member in CSUN’s college counseling/student services program, receiving the 2012 Outstanding Professor of the Year Award. In 2016, she was selected from among the 23 California State University campuses as the recipient of the prestigious Wang Family Excellence Award, the CSU’s highest honor for staff. A recognized leader and mentor, Debra also consults with universities nationwide on leadership, strategic planning, equity and inclusion, and organizational development.

ACUI Core Competencies

• Event Management 
• Organizational Leadership 
• Planning 

Learning Outcomes

As a result of attending this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand how past challenges in higher education mirror current disruptions, offering insight into patterns of change and resilience. 
• Gain practical wisdom from college union and student activities professionals who have successfully navigated complex situations in the past. 
• Learn about creative solutions and approaches developed during times of crisis that can be applied to current and future challenges.

Registration Details

• Individual at Premium or Full Tier Member Campus: Free
• Individual at Digital Tier Member Campus – $20
• Individual at Nonmember Campus – $50

Each person who wants access to event or resources following event should register individually. Members must be associated with the correct campus account to receive the $0 rate, where applicable; please contact acui@acui.org with questions or issues.