By Autumn Walden, Editor, AACRAO Connect, Content Strategy Manager, AACRAO
The higher education profession remains under pressure with regulatory environments that are expanding well beyond familiar frameworks, while the people doing this work are trying to adapt and stay resilient. According to CUPA-HR’s annual workforce survey data, overall turnover across faculty and staff reached 14% in 2023-2024—still above pre-pandemic levels, even as institutions work to close the gap.
These three previews of sessions at the 111th AACRAO Annual Meeting speak directly to the professional infrastructure that makes institutions work: how individuals navigate their own careers with intention, how registrars and admissions professionals stay ahead of a compliance landscape that extends far beyond FERPA, and how teams are built to last. Each session reflects what AACRAO is designed to support: practitioners who are rigorous, self-aware, and equipped for complexity.
We encourage you to review our Attendee Resources, Session Gallery, and information about Visiting New Orleans. See you in just a few weeks.
In the breakout session, “Career Wisdom from the Golden Girls,” learn how to navigate upward career progression from two professionals with a combined 80 years of higher education experience.
“There isn’t a clear road map for folks in our area (Registrar, Records/Data Management) to advance in our careers,” shared Kelli Cox of Kansas City University. “I wanted to focus on the soft skills that are useful and necessary to find fulfillment and purpose in one’s position. Because Kelli and I have had more than 80 years experience in higher education administration, I thought we could share tips and tricks we learned to succeed and to enjoy what we do,” added Cindy Miller, also of Kansas City University.
What is the most important thing your attendees should take away from your session?
Cox: You are not alone. Don’t get discouraged. Use the suggestions we share to make the most of your work experience, including seeking out training, resources, and mentors.
Miller: Be yourself, own your own values, and have fun at work. Find enjoyment in the interactions you have with colleagues and students, knowing you are making a difference in your life and theirs.
What are your thoughts on the AACRAO Annual Meeting in general?
Cox: This is the most fun organization that I’ve been fortunate to be a member of. This is a great opportunity to network outside of the data sciences field, where I have worked for most of my professional life.
Miller: I agree! This is a fun group of folks, but also very passionate about the work we do and always striving to improve through lifelong learning.
Can you share tips for first-time attendees?
Cox: Ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to participate in a group even if you don’t feel 100% comfortable that you belong there – you do!
Miller: Meet everyone you possibly can. Make new friends, especially across different institutions. This conference is so inclusive that no one should feel like they are alone. Even for dinner or after meeting activities, you can reach out and introduce yourself to people you’ve never met!
The breakout session, “What are the Compliance Issues Besides FERPA That I Need to Know?” will provide a comprehensive overview of additional compliance laws in addition to FERPA to make sure you are staying current and compliant with these laws.
“I created this session because most registrars are familiar with FERPA, but they might be missing a myriad of federal, state, and campus compliance issues for which they may not be aware,” shared Helen Garrett, Ed.D., of the University of Washington – Seattle Campus. “We cover a great number of compliance issues and provide resources for our colleagues to study and learn more.”
What is the most important thing your attendees should take away from your session?
Dr. Garrett: You can’t be expected to be an expert on a vast number of compliance regulations, but you can at least develop a familiarity, so if the issue comes to your attention, you now know about it and have a resource to learn more.
What are your thoughts on the AACRAO Annual Meeting in general?
Dr. Garrett: This is an incredible opportunity to gain best practices for upholding policies and to learn best-of-breed ways of utilizing our multitude of software tools, both from your colleagues and the vendors in the Exhibit Hall.
Can you share tips for first-time attendees?
Dr. Garrett: Be bold and talk to everyone, in line waiting for coffee, while you wait for the session to begin, and in the elevator. Bring business cards and post your question on the back, and hand them to the presenter to get back to you after the meeting ends.
During the breakout session, “Winning the Retention Game: Building Career Pathways and Sustainable Workloads for Admissions Counselors,” expect to learn practical strategies to support counselor growth, balance demands, and build healthier enrollment offices that foster long-term success.
“We chose this topic because one factor missing from many strategic enrollment plans is the staff doing the work. Across institutions, we’re seeing high levels of turnover among talented professionals not because they lack commitment, but because workloads are unsustainable and career pathways are unclear,” shared Dr. Josh Hibbard of Whitworth University. “When turnover becomes cyclical, it erodes institutional knowledge and destabilizes recruitment efforts. We believe sustainable enrollment begins with sustainable teams, and that requires intentional leadership.”
What is the most important thing your attendees should take away from your session?
Dr. Hibbard: If there’s one takeaway, it’s that retention of staff isn’t about getting lucky, but about designing an environment where staff thrive. Clear promotional pathways, structured onboarding, active listening, and workload discipline all contribute to long-term team stability. Leaders must have the courage to prioritize what truly moves the needle and let go of well-intentioned but distracting initiatives. When teams feel supported and purposeful, performance follows.
What are your thoughts on the AACRAO Annual Meeting in general?
Dr. Hibbard: The AACRAO Annual Meeting provides a rare opportunity for practitioners to step out of the daily enrollment cycle and think strategically about the future of the profession. It brings together colleagues who understand the operational realities of our work and are willing to share candid insights. The conversations that happen here often shape institutional decisions long after the conference ends. It’s a space where perspective is sharpened, and the professional community is strengthened.
Can you share tips for first-time attendees?
Dr. Hibbard: Be intentional about both learning and connection. Attend sessions that stretch your thinking, but also introduce yourself to someone new at each event you attend. Ask peers what challenges they’re navigating and what has worked for them. The informal exchanges are often the most valuable. And if you don’t know where to start, start with us. I’m happy to connect.
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