Letter from the Editor: January 6, 2026

Dear Readers,

Welcome to 2026, the year signifying the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Try saying “semiquincentennial” five times fast. The repetition may be challenging. But if you break it down, you get “semi” meaning “half,” “quin” for “five,” and “centennial” for “100 years.” Half of 500 years.

Repeat, deconstruct, and approach from a different understanding. That’s how I intend to work through this year's lessons. How will you?

In this issue:

• The 100th SEM-EP Graduate in a Milestone Year
• Expand Influence from the Inside Out
• Discuss Goal Setting with Colleagues
• Leadership Lessons from ‘The Hottest Seat on Campus’
• Protect Your Communities with Tips to Identify Fraud
• Ask the FERPA Professors

With appreciation,

Autumn Walden

Editor, AACRAO Connect, Content Strategy Manager, AACRAO

P.S. Please use the "Contact the Editor" function to provide feedback or submit an idea for the AACRAO Connect email newsletter. Your contributions are welcome.