I have been involved with the profession of student affairs since being selected as an RA my sophomore year of college at the University of Pennsylvania.

As a person whose masters-level training was not through a traditional student affairs program, I have found it sometimes challenging to connect with peers and to build a professional network of colleagues.

When I moved to New York State for my position at Ithaca College, a colleague immediately connected me to CSPA-NYS (College Student Personnel Association of New York State). Before I knew it, I was submitting my membership form and was nominated for a position on the Board at the same time.

Through my service to CSPA-NYS, I have had the opportunity to develop a true network of colleagues in the state. Through serving as President of CSPA-NYS and participating at the Convention, I began to build a network of colleagues and friends throughout the country and the world through my involvement with ACPA.

I'm grateful that ACPA has become my professional home, a place I come to reconnect with friends, and a place that continues to challenge my professionalism, my leadership, and my willingness to serve.

Doreen Hettich-Atkins
Ithaca College
Senior Assistant to the Senior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Life

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