AVP Initiatives and Steering Committee
Supporting the Profession AVP or "Number Two" Mid-Level Senior Level VP for Student Affairs
Assistant and Associate Vice Presidents (AVPs) in Student Affairs, often referred to as "number two" positions, play a pivotal role in higher education institutions. They support the Vice President for Student Affairs by overseeing the division’s operations, managing functional areas such as dean of students, student services, health and wellness, and diversity initiatives, and leading strategic planning to enhance student success and campus climate. AVPs also supervise staff, manage budgets, and collaborate across departments to address emerging student needs and institutional priorities.
Recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by AVPs, NASPA’s AVP Steering Committee provides a dedicated space for these professionals to connect, share resources, and advance their leadership skills. The committee fosters professional development, offers mentorship opportunities, and advocates for the critical role AVPs play in driving student affairs excellence. By addressing the diverse needs of AVPs—whether they are new to the role, aspiring to the position, or seeking to advance to their next leadership opportunity—the committee empowers these professionals to navigate their multifaceted responsibilities and make a meaningful impact on their institutions. Through professional development, knowledge dissemination, networking opportunities, and recognition of their unique contributions, the AVP Steering Committee strives to encourage excellence in the "number two" position and support AVPs throughout their careers.
Message from the AVP Steering Committee Chair
I am honored to serve in the seat as the chair of the AVP Steering Committee. The efforts of the AVP Steering Committee were vital to my transition as an AVP or ”number two” and continue to fuel me today, and I have faith many of you can share in this sentiment. The AVP Steering Committee strives to encourage excellence to those serving in our roles by providing valuable initiatives that support the work from the AVP/#2 seat. The members of the AVP Steering committee are committed to providing offerings that are aimed at developing and supporting AVPs and the equivalent. Additionally, we are always open to learning more about what the AVP/#2 community needs and hope to hear more from you as you engage in our initiatives. Be sure to follow us on Twitter at @NASPAavp.
- Taléa R. Drummer-Ferrell, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, PennState University and Chair, NASPA AVP Steering Committee
Signature Initiatives
AVP Cohort Connections
The NASPA AVP Steering Committee is excited to offer an opportunity to bring together members of the AVP community to help foster and strengthen our peer network.
The Cohorts:
- Bring together and foster supportive connections between AVPs within the NASPA community.
- Create sustainable and ongoing virtual communities that meet at least twice a semester to discuss current trends and topics that are directly impacting the ways in which AVPs do their work and serve students.
There has been a regular call for AVPs to be able to network and find supportive spaces where they can learn from peers and find ways to help navigate the increasingly volatile issues that crop up on college campuses. Our hope is that Cohort Connections will meet this need by offering small group virtual communities that will discuss current trends and issues and topics impacting the work. When possible, cohorts will be arranged geographically, by institution size, and/or by other identities. Each cohort will consist of a Cohort Facilitator who will be responsible for organizing the cohort and helping to ensure its success.
Facilitated topics could include:
- Free speech/open expression/media
- Assessment (e.g., culture of, doing it well, making the time)
- Student conduct/crisis management
- Navigating mental health through the lens of university policies and protocols
- Defining your role/balancing
- Supervising up, down, and across
- Working with HR
- Working and operating with labor relations/collective bargaining
- Collaborating with academic affairs
- Navigating politics
- New laws and policies
- Mental health of students/staff
...And much more.
JOIN A COHORT: A new cohort will be launched in February 2025 after the AVP Symposium. Those who are interested in joining a cohort and/or becoming a Cohort Facilitator will be able to sign up at that time.
AVP and VP Dialogue Series
The AVP and VP Dialogue Series provides additional opportunities to AVPs (and the equivalent) and VPs for professional discourse on topics that impact our institutions, our students, and the profession. Each topic-specific dialogue is facilitated by one or more of your AVP peers who kicks off the discussion and provides enough structure for attendees to get the most out of the opportunity to engage virtually in a community of similarly professionally situated colleagues.
Join us for the upcoming dialogues during the 2025 NASPA National Conference:
AVP Dialogues: What Makes Your Employees Tick?
Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 10:00am - 10:50am
Hilton Riverside Grand Ballroom C
AVP Dialogues: Take a Break and Celebrate - Investing in a Culture of Appreciation
Tuesday, March 18th, 2025, 3:15pm - 4:05pm
Hilton Riverside Grand Ballroom C
NASPA Annual Conference Initiatives
Each year during the NASPA Annual Conference, the AVP Steering Committee coordinates several inititives designed to enrich the conference experience for AVPs (and the equivalent) and student affairs professionals who aspire to the AVP role. They include:
- Pre-conference workshop for sitting AVPs
- Pre-conference workshop for aspiring AVPs
- Series of topic-specific "AVP Dialogues"
- NASPA AVP initiatives update and caucus
- AVP mixer and reunions for past attendees of the NASPA AVP Institute, NASPA Institute for New AVPs, and NASPA AVP Symposium
2025 NASPA Conference AVP Steering Committee Guide:
The AVP Steering Committee Guide is ready! Start planning your journey through AVP content, programs and events right here.
NASPA Institute for New AVPs
The AVP Steering Committee has been instrumental in the conceptualization and ongoing evolution of the NASPA Institute for New AVPs. The Institute is a foundational two-day learning and networking experience designed to support and develop AVPs in their unique and challenging roles on campus. The Institute is appropriate for AVPs and other senior-level "number twos" who report to the highest-ranking student affairs officer and who have been serving in their first AVP/"number two" position for not longer than two years. Please consider joining us in January 2026. Stay tuned for more details!
NASPA AVP Symposium
The NASPA AVP Symposium is a unique and innovative three-day program designed to support and develop AVPs and other "number twos" in their unique campus leadership roles. Leveraging the vast expertise and knowledge of sitting AVPs, the Symposium will provide high-level content through a variety of participant engagement-oriented session types.
This professional development offering is limited to AVPs and other "number twos" who report to the highest-ranking student affairs officer on campus and have substantial responsibility for divisional functions. Additionally, vice presidents for student affairs (and the equivalent) who are presenting during the symposium may also register at a discounted rate and attend.
We look forward to seeing you in January 2026 for the next Symposium. Please check back for details!
New AVP Toolkit
Welcome to the AVP Role
Welcome Letter to New AVPs
Dear Colleague,
Welcome to the Assistant Vice President (AVP) role! Stepping into this position is both an exciting opportunity and a significant responsibility, as AVPs play a crucial role in shaping student affairs and influencing the broader institution. Whether you are new to this level of leadership or transitioning from another role, you are now part of a dynamic and dedicated community committed to advancing student success.
The AVP Steering Committee has been instrumental in our own journeys as AVPs, helping us navigate the complexities of this role while fostering connections with colleagues who share similar experiences. We have no doubt that many of you will find the same support, encouragement, and inspiration in this community. Our mission is to provide valuable initiatives that enhance the AVP/#2 experience, offering professional development, networking, and resources tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of our positions.
As AVPs, we have the ability to lead high-profile initiatives, influence institutional strategy, and translate vision into action. Our role bridges student affairs leadership with the operational realities of our divisions, allowing us to drive meaningful change. Whether it’s leading efforts to implement federal policies like Title IX, shaping campus-wide learning outcomes, or managing the strategic direction of multiple departments, our work is essential to the success of both students and staff.
As you step into this role, we encourage you to:
- Engage with your VPSA – Clarify expectations, establish communication strategies, and find the right balance between autonomy and collaboration.
- Lean into professional development – Continually build skills in leadership, resource management, strategic assessment, and institutional politics.
- Build relationships – Cultivate connections across campus and within NASPA to strengthen your professional network.
- Stay connected to the AVP community – We are here to support one another, learn from each other, and grow together as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of higher education.
The AVP Steering Committee is committed to serving this community, and we are always open to learning more about what you need. We encourage you to participate in our initiatives, connect with colleagues, and share your insights so we can continue to shape meaningful opportunities for AVPs.
Welcome again—we are excited to have you in this space and look forward to supporting you on this journey.
In community,
AVP Steering Committee
Follow this roadmap to navigate the engagement opportunities for new AVPs within the NASPA community. The Steering Committee encourages members to build community among their peers as we share best practices, celebrate wins, work through challenges, and evolve as AVPs in the field of student affairs. Here are some ways to get connected:
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Update Your Profile: Make sure that your NASPA profile indicates your AVP (or number “2”) title and organizational position. This designation will ensure that you receive the AVP newsletter, event invitations for AVP targeted content, and information about other opportunities throughout the year. |
AVP Cohort Connections Consider joining an AVP Cohort Connection group. This is a no-cost opportunity to connect with peers around topics pertinent to senior leaders in the AVP role. New cohort groups typically launch twice a year (September and February) so contact the coordinators anytime with your interest to get on the list for the next session. |
VP/AVP Dialogue Series Register for one or more of the monthly Vice President/Assistant Vice President dialogue series offerings that are marketed via email and the AVP newsletter. Invitations will come your way from NASPA. The series offers a platform to learn about emerging issues, policy topics, and so many other student affairs issues. |
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New AVP Institute and AVP Symposium Consider attending the New AVP Institute and/or the AVP Symposium – both are wonderful professional development conferences with an AVP specific participant audience. These conferences are produced by NASPA annually, usually in January or February. |
Annual Conference If you are planning to attend the NASPA Annual Conference, look for AVP tagged events and plan to attend the Caucus meeting to learn more about the AVP offerings and how to get involved in coordinating events in the future. This year's AVP conference guide is available here. |
Pre-Conference Sessions at the Annual Conference: Consider attending the AVP pre-conference sessions at the Annual Conference. This year's topics include: Evolving, Adapting, and Thriving in the AVP Position and So You Want To Be An AVP? Considerations for Those Aspiring to the Assistant Vice President Role. |
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Follow Us on Social Media The NASPA AVP Steering Committee is active on X. Follow us @NASPAavp
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AVP: Leading from the Unique Role of Associate/Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs We highlight recommend checking out this book written by Anne Hecht and Dr. Jason Pina. The authors present an integrative picture of several fundamental proficiencies that are critical to an AVP’s success in the first year. |
AVP Steering Committee If you are looking to deepen your engagement with the NASPA AVP community and want to take it to the next level of engagement or leadership, consider applying for the AVP Steering Committee (new applicants are selected annually for two-year terms). |
The AVP Steering Committee recommends the following books, articles and blogs to support your professional development as you begin (or continue) your journey as an AVP.
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AVP: Leading from the Unique Role of Associate/Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs We recommend checking out this book written by Anne Hecht and Dr. Jason Pina. The authors present an integrative picture of several fundamental proficiencies that are critical to an AVP’s success in the first year. |
Keep Calm and Call the Dean of Students: A Guide to Understanding the Many Facets of the Dean of Students Role Through chapters by experienced DOSs – from early career to veterans and in between – this book provides vivid first-hand accounts of what’s involved in managing the multiple roles of the deanship. Edited by Art Munin and Lori S. White. |
Disruptive Transformation: Leading Innovative and Creative Teams in Higher Education Disruptive Transformation draws on the expertise of a diverse array of creative and innovative higher education leaders to encourage readers to reflect, experiment, and evolve their professional practice. Written by |
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Professional Competency Areas for Student Affairs Educators The 10 professional competency areas presented in this document lay out essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions expected of all student affairs educators, regardless of functional area or specialization within the field. |
2024 NASPA Top Issues in Student Affairs The 2024 NASPA Top Issues in Student Affairs provides a snapshot of what senior leaders in student affairs viewed as most important to their institutions in 2024. This is an annual collection of perspectives from vice presidents and assistant vice presidents for student affairs. |
2025 NASPA Annual Conference
The AVP Steering Committee is excited to welcome you to New Orleans for the 2025 NASPA Annual Conference.
As we gather in New Orleans—a city known for its resilience, culture, and spirit of celebration—we recognize that this conference comes at a pivotal moment for higher education and student affairs. The challenges facing our campuses and communities are complex, but this space allows us to connect, renew our commitment to student success, and explore innovative approaches that will shape our profession’s future.
To make the most of this experience, the AVP Steering Committee offers the following ideas for our time at the conference:
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Engagement: Be present and participate actively in sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities.
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Collaboration & Sharing: Take notes, gather resources, and be prepared to share key takeaways with your team when you return.
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Time Management: Balance attending sessions, exploring the city, and taking care of yourself—this is an intense but rewarding experience.
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Community & Cultural Awareness: Support local businesses, appreciate the city’s rich heritage, and be mindful of the historical significance of the land and its Indigenous peoples, including the Chitimacha, Houma, Biloxi, Choctaw, Coushatta, and Isle de Jean Charles tribal nations.
This conference is not only an opportunity for learning but also for building relationships within our team and the broader student affairs community. I encourage you to make the most of it, ask questions, challenge your thinking, and find inspiration in the collective wisdom of our field.
Please visit the Conference Website for more information and to plan your experience.
January 23 - January 25, 2025 Columbus, OH
The NASPA Institute for New AVPs is a foundational three-day learning and networking experience designed to support and develop AVPs in their unique and challenging roles on campus. The Institute is appropriate for AVPs and other senior-level 'number twos' who report to the highest-ranking student affairs officer and who have been serving in their first AVP/'number two' position for no longer than two years. Register here.
1. What is the role of an AVP in student affairs?
The AVP position provides an opportunity to influence both the student affairs organization and the larger institution. AVPs serve as senior administrators who lead high-profile initiatives on behalf of student affairs and campus leadership. These initiatives may include responding to federal policies like Title IX or contributing to institution-wide learning outcomes.
A strong AVP enhances the vice president’s effectiveness by managing key priorities, allowing the VPSA to focus on broader strategic goals.
2. How do AVPs shape student affairs organizations?
AVPs play a crucial role in providing vision and leadership for multiple departments within student affairs. They act as a bridge between the VPSA’s strategic vision and the operational work on the ground, ensuring that institutional goals are met and key messages are communicated effectively throughout the division.
3. What are the expectations for AVPs?
Expectations can vary based on the VPSA’s leadership style, institutional culture, and division structure, but common themes include:
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Clarifying expectations with the VPSA: Having regular conversations to align on priorities.
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Managing challenges independently: AVPs should handle issues within their areas without needing frequent VPSA involvement.
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Knowing what to escalate and when: Striking a balance between keeping the VPSA informed and handling day-to-day challenges effectively.
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Getting things done: Whether launching new programs, developing partnerships, or implementing legislative changes, AVPs must be adaptable and results-oriented.
4. What core competencies are essential for AVPs?
Successful AVPs must develop expertise in key areas:
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Competency |
Definition |
|---|---|
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Politics |
Building relationships and navigating institutional and community dynamics. |
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Position Skills |
Developing the essential competencies needed to perform effectively as an AVP. |
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Human Resource Management |
Managing team dynamics, fostering professional development, and structuring staffing to support student affairs goals. |
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Leadership & Strategic Vision |
Understanding the broader institutional culture, student affairs’ role, change management, and long-term planning. |
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Resource Allocation, Acquisition & Management |
Identifying ways to secure, align, and optimize resources within the division. |
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Strategic Assessment & Evaluation |
Developing learning outcomes, implementing assessment protocols, and using data for long-term planning. |
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Law & Policy |
Staying informed on legislative changes and public policies affecting higher education, and ensuring student affairs aligns with legal requirements. |
5. How can AVPs best support their VPSAs?
To be an effective partner to the VPSA, AVPs should:
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Be proactive in learning about institutional priorities and how student affairs fits into the bigger picture.
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Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and handle challenges confidently.
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Foster trust and communication by keeping the VPSA informed of critical issues while maintaining autonomy over daily operations.
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Cultivate relationships across campus to enhance collaboration and resource sharing.
6. What advice do experienced VPSAs have for new AVPs?
Experienced VPSAs emphasize the importance of initiative, adaptability, and strategic thinking. AVPs should:
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Find the right balance between independence and communication with their VPSA.
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Prioritize professional development to stay ahead of evolving student affairs trends.
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Embrace leadership opportunities that allow them to make a meaningful impact on students, staff, and the institution.
By mastering these skills and competencies, AVPs can position themselves as trusted leaders within student affairs and play a vital role in shaping their institutions.
Sources:
Hecht, A., & Pina, J. B. (2016, August 3). The modern-day AVP: Balancing challenges with rewards. HigherEdJobs. https://www.higheredjobs.com/blog/postDisplay.cfm?blog=17&post=999&Title=The%20Modern%20Day%20AVP%3A%20Balancing%20Challenges%20with%20Rewards
Hecht, A., & Pina, J. B. (2016, June 10). Core competencies for success. HigherEdJobs. https://www.higheredjobs.com/blog/postDisplay.cfm?blog=17&post=956&Title=Core%20Competencies%20for%20Success
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AVP Latest and Greatest
Events
One of the best resources available to you is the wide range of professional development opportunities. This list contains both our “Hosted Events,” workshops and webinars that we plan and manage, and some “Related Events,” hosted by the NASPA Central Office or other NASPA Constituent Groups. To see a full listing of NASPA events, please see the Events page.
Get Involved
Interested in Getting Involved with the AVP Steering Committee?
If you would like more information about NASPA's AVP Steering Committee including how to get involved with its initiatives, please contact Taléa Drummer-Ferrell, AVP Steering Committee Chair at trd5380@psu.edu or Ke'Ana Bradley, Assistant Vice President of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, NASPA kbradley@naspa.org
Steering Committee Membership
The AVP Steering Committee is comprised of accomplished AVPs from a variety of institutional types. They are eager to hear from you regarding the Steering Committee and its initiatives.
2024 AVP Needs Assessment Report
In Fall 2023, the NASPA AVP Steering Committee initiated an approved survey through NAPSA for all AVP/#2
members to assess their professional needs to aid in various efforts to improve and address the growth and
development of its members.
To view the survey report, click the button below.