By Dr. Seth Marc Kamen, State Director of Transfer, Learning Recognition and Credential Alignment, North Carolina Community College System, and Chris Dorsten, Associate VP for Enrollment Management & University Registrar, Kent State University
Alright, AACRAO fam, want to be a Big Deal in the Big Easy? The 111th AACRAO Annual Meeting is rolling into New Orleans April 19-22, 2026, and we need YOU to help make it legendary. Think beads, brass bands, and a whole lot of professional magic.
But here’s the twist: you don’t just attend this party, you help run it.
Why Volunteer at the Annual Meeting?
Volunteering is about being the heartbeat of the event in addition to lending a hand. It’s your chance to:
Show your AACRAO pride and support the community.
Make your case to attend (volunteering adds value).
Meet amazing people and expand your professional network.
Kickstart your leadership journey with AACRAO.
Have a blast while making a real difference.
Volunteer Gigs That’ll Make You Feel Like a Rockstar:
Welcome Booth Wizard: Be the friendly face that says, “Hey y’all!” and hands out good vibes.
Lead the Parade around the Convention Center: Help folks find their way without needing a GPS.
Swag Bag Stuffing Champion: Channel your inner elf and prep those registration goodies.
Entertainment Guru: Know a killer local band or performer? Help us bring the NOLA flair to the opening night.
Community Service Ex-Coord-inaire: Do good, feel good, and make AACRAO proud; help us coordinate the community service event.
Ready to Join the Fun? It’s Easy
There are two ways to indicate your interest in volunteering:
Mark your interest on the 111th AACRAO Annual Meeting Registration Form:
- After you log in with your AACRAO credentials, fill out the registration form. Under “Meeting Information,” find the optional question: “Are you interested in volunteering at the AACRAO Annual Meeting?” Once you indicate your interest(s) in volunteering at the Annual Meeting—such as helping with registration & lobby greeting, session usher or moderator, totebag stuffing, and more—a Co-Chair of Volunteers will reach out with more information.
- Indicating interest(s) does not commit you to volunteering; it simply adds you to the contact list for the Co-Chairs.
Email your Volunteer Co-Chairs:
Dr. Seth Marc Kamen, State Director of Transfer, Learning Recognition and Credential Alignment, North Carolina Community College System: kamens@nccommunitycolleges.edu
Chris Dorsten, Associate VP for Enrollment Management & University Registrar, Kent State University: cdorsten@kent.edu
Let’s Make This the Best AACRAO Meeting Yet
We’re counting on you to help make the 111th AACRAO Annual Meeting a roaring success. So pack your beads, bring your spirit, and get ready to volunteer your way into an unforgettable experience.
See you in NOLA, April 19–22, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Your enthusiastic Co-Chairs of Volunteers,
Chris and Seth
P.S. Don’t forget to nominate your “Best of the Best” State and Regional standouts for a chance to present in New Orleans. Nominate by 5 p.m. ET on December 12.
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