Higher education professionals from across the region are invited to a program at Elon University that will feature plenary remarks and discussions on mentoring, belonging and the future of student affairs.
Registration is now open for Elon University’s Division of Student Life Winter Symposium 2026: A Day of Professional Development and Growth.
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026
Location: Alumni Gym in Koury Center
Time: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Elon employees: Registration and meal fees are covered by the university; however please Elon employees are encouraged to still register.
Non-Elon guests: $50 per person (lunch and reception) for participants who register before November 20. After that date, registration increases to $60 and space may be limited.
Attendees can register and view the full conference schedule on the Elon University Division of Student Life website.
January marks the first time the Division of Student Life is opening the program to higher education professionals from across the region interested in exploring topics such as mentoring, relationship-rich education and student success. Attendees will hear from a morning panel of experts who will draw on their expertise from student affairs, mentorship and student retention:
- Leo M. Lambert, president emeritus, Elon University
- Peter Felten, assistant provost for teaching and learning, executive director of the Center for Engaged Learning, and professor of history at Elon University
- Sarah Hansen, vice president for student life at the University of Iowa
- Darris R. Means, professor of educational leadership and Dean’s Fellow for Rural Education
During the afternoon plenary session, leaders from ACPA – College Student Educators International and NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education will discuss the future of student affairs in higher education. Panelists include:
- Jonathan A. McElderry, 2025–26 ACPA president and dean of student excellence, Elon University
- Chris Moody, ACPA executive director
- Michael N. Christakis, NASPA board chair and vice president for student affairs, University at Albany
- Amelia Parnell, NASPA president
Together, these national leaders will examine the evolving landscape of student affairs and the role of collaboration, data-informed practice and equity in shaping the future of the profession.
Symposium breakout sessions will explore personal wellness, staff supervision, highlights of campus initiatives, and other relevant topics within higher education.
“This year’s Winter Symposium is grounded in the awareness that education is most powerful when it is relationship-rich,” said Jon Dooley, Elon University’s vice president for student life. “We are also thinking deeply about the future of higher education and are reminded of the value of student affairs. By gathering thought leaders and practitioners from across the country, we are continuing to build a learning community that prioritizes connection, collaboration, and student success.”
For more information, please contact the conference co-chairs: Sarah Ann Chapman, associate director for Residence Life at schapman11@elon.edu, or Michael Williams, director of the Moseley Center at willimt@elon.edu.