Make the Most of NASPA 2025: Tips from Your WISA Leadership Team

The NASPA Annual Conference is an engaging space for learning, networking, and professional growth. But with so much happening at once, it helps to have a game plan. As we get ready for NASPA 2025 in New Orleans, the Womxn in Student Affairs Knowledge Community Leadership Team has put together some tips and tricks to help you navigate the conference with confidence.

1. Get Familiar with the NASPA App: The conference schedule is packed, so check out sessions before you arrive. Keep an eye on the app daily—last-minute updates happen!

2. Plan Your Sessions Ahead: With so many program sessions, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Review the schedule in advance and pick two options for each time block—just in case your first choice is full.

3. Find Your Balance & Recharge: Conferences are exciting but exhausting. Attend as many sessions as you can, but don’t forget to take breaks—step away, grab a coffee, or explore the city to stay refreshed.

4. Build Your Network, One Hello at a Time: The best part of NASPA? The connections you make. Introduce yourself to someone new, attend a networking event, and see how one conversation can open doors.

5. Experience New Orleans Like a Local: Don’t leave without trying a praline beignet, strolling the French Quarter, or joining a historical ghost tour. Make time for something that brings you joy!

6. Comfort is Key: You’ll be on your feet a lot, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Trust us—your future self will thank you.

7. Make Reservations—Avoid the Wait!: Dining in New Orleans is an experience, so skip the chains and go local. But don’t forget to make reservations! It’ll save you time and help you avoid long waits.

8. Swag & Connections in the Exhibit Hall: This isn’t just a place for free stuff (though there’s plenty of that). It’s also a great way to engage with vendors, learn about resources, and expand your professional circle.

9. Badge Ribbons = Instant Icebreakers: Swing by the NASPA tables and grab some ribbons for your name badge. They’re fun, spark conversations, and, let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good ribbon collection?

10. Get Involved—Attend Business Meetings: Looking to get more involved with NASPA? Attend your regional or Knowledge Community open business meetings. You’ll learn what’s happening and how you can serve!

Special thanks to our WISA Leadership Team, especially Dae'lyn Do (WISA 2025-2027 Co-Chair), Jessica Brown (WISA 2025-2027 Co-Chair), Krysal Allen (WISA 2023-2025 Co-Chair), Jillian Strong (WISA Regional Representative Liaison), and Joey Rios (WISA Communications Co-Chair), for contributing these great tips!

 

WISA Sponsored Programs

To connect and engage with the WISA community during your time in New Orleans, mark you calendars for our WISA Sponsored Programs, which include: 

NASPA Knowledge Community Fair

• 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Sunday, March 16 in Convention Center Hall C

Gender and Sexuality KC & Womxn in Student Affairs KC Morning Coffee Break

• 7:00 - 8:00 a.m., Monday, March 17 in MCCNO Hall B2-1

Womxn in Student Affairs KC, NASPA Center for Women, Journal of Women and Gender in Higher Education, and Alice Manicur Symposium Alum Joint Reception

• 5:30 - 7:00 p.m., Monday, March 17 in Marriott Warehouse Arts District, Gravier C

Doctorates and Diapers: Women’s Journeys Navigating the Doctoral Degree with Children

• 8:30 - 9:20 a.m., Monday, March 17 in MCCNO 238

This Barbie is Tired: Addressing the Professional and Emotional Labor of Womxn in the Workplace

• 3:50 - 4:40 p.m., Monday, March 17 in Hilton Riverside Churchill A2

"Out Here Fighting For My Life": The Experiences of Black Women Student Affairs Professionals and Workplace Relationships with White Women

• 10:00 - 10:50 a.m., Tuesday, March 18 in MCCNO 339

WISA Open Business Meeting

• 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 18 in MCCNO 238

 

Apply to Serve on the WISA Leadership Team

Exciting opportunity! Your involvement with WISA doesn’t have to stop after the 2025 NASPA Annual Conference. We’re currently seeking passionate womxn to join the WISA Knowledge Community Leadership Team! With five leadership positions opening in our next cycle, this is a great chance to get involved, contribute to our community, and help shape the future of WISA. Our open roles include:

• Region II KC Representative

• Region IV-W KC Representative

• Regional Representative Liaison

• Communications Co-Chair

• Membership Engagement Co-Chair 

The links to apply can be found on our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/naspa_wisa 

If you have any questions about the open positions or the application process, feel free to reach out to WISA KC Co-Chairs Dae’Lyn Do (daelyndo@umich.edu) or Jessica Brown (jessica.brown1@aamu.edu). You can also connect with current leadership team members at one of our conference events!

 

We’re looking forward to connecting with you in New Orleans! Be sure to check out our WISA-sponsored programs, meetings, and receptions throughout the conference. And if you see us around, don’t hesitate to say hi—we’d love to meet you!

 See you soon, 

WISA Leadership Team

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WISA KC Leadership Team

The purpose of the WISA Knowledge Community is to give voice to the needs of womxn in student affairs and to provide professional development opportunities through both regional and national activities designed to address gender equity and prompt personal growth.