August 1, 2026
Call for Programs Open
September 23, 2026
Conference Call for Programs Closes
20th Annual MENASA NASPA Conference
Regional Annual Conferences Focus Area Supporting the Profession Global Division International Education Professional Level AVP or "Number Two" Faculty Graduate Mid-Level New Professional Senior Level Undergraduate VP for Student Affairs
December 8 - December 9, 2026 Virtual
The MENASA NASPA conference provides student affairs practitioners with the knowledge and skills to effectively address and support college students.
Presented By
About the MENASA Annual Conference
This year marks the 20th NASPA MENASA Conference, a milestone that invites us to honor two decades of growth and transformation in student affairs across the region, while boldly envisioning the future of our work and its impact across generations. The conference tracks are designed to reflect this journey, exploring lessons from the past, current innovations, and future-focused strategies that will shape student affairs within the region for years to come. This three-day conference is an opportunity to connect with colleagues regionally and abroad.
Conference Planning Committee
The 2026 MENASA NASPA Conference Planning Committee (CPC) is responsible for supporting the creation and execution of the conference experience by leveraging their expertise and lens. NASPA is grateful to the thoughtful and intentional volunteers listed below.
Amjad Abdo, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar
Maryam Alaraj, Rochester Institute of Technology of Dubai
Manal Ammagui, American University of Sharjah
Yaser Al Qawasmi, Qatar University
Wadad El Housseini, Qatar University
Neil Hammond, NYUAD
Lamia Husseiny, American University of Beirut
Karima Ilila, Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar
Janelle Rahyns, NASPA
Isabel Trevino, Zayed University
Registration
Registration as a member is based on individual membership status at the time of the conference. If your current membership will expire prior to the conference, you will have the option to renew at the time of registration to receive the member rate.
If you are not a current member and are employed by a college or university, you can join as an international affiliate member. NASPA membership provides access to the individual member rate for the conference. Please visit the membership section of the NASPA website to learn more about membership types and benefits. We hope you will consider joining today!
Are you enrolled as a full-time student at a university or college? If so, you are eligible to become a NASPA member at the student rate. Please visit here to find out more information about NASPA student membership and how to receive the NASPA student rate for the conference.
REGISTRATION FEES - Coming Soon
Call for Programs - Now Open!
20 Years of Student Affairs: Reflecting on the Past, Empowering the Future
This year marks the 20th NASPA MENASA Conference, a milestone that invites us to honor two decades of growth and transformation in student affairs across the region, while boldly envisioning the future of our work and its impact across generations. The conference tracks are designed to reflect this journey, exploring lessons from the past, current innovations, and future-focused strategies that will shape student affairs within the region for years to come.
As a diverse and dynamic educational landscape, practices of Student Affairs in MENASA institutions can be looked at from various perspectives and for the purpose of the 20th conference, the following tracks can be tackled. Interested attendees should submit a program form electronically. The program should be a detailed outline of their proposed session and a set of learning outcomes for attendees that connect to the conference tracks.
All presenters must register to attend the 2026 MENASA NASPA Conference.
Deadline to Submit Your CFP - 23 September 2026
Proposals will be evaluated by several program reviewers using the following five standards
Significant and creative contributions to the student affairs profession.
Engaging program format that involves the audience and stimulates discussion.
Conceptually strong foundation, well-written, with clearly stated outcomes and appropriately documented research and/or experience.
Qualified presenters with expertise in the subject matter.
Thematically relevant program content incorporating the conference focus area(s) into the program.
Conference Tracks
Building Resilient Communities
This track explores strategies and initiatives to foster inclusive, supportive campus environments that prioritize community building and strengthen institutional resilience.
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Equity, inclusion, and belonging in student affairs programming
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Adaptability in times of crisis and uncertainty
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Bridging institutional demands, best practices, and local context
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Wellbeing for professional staff and students
Skills & Strategies for Student Success
This track focuses on the essential tools and strategies to equip the next generation of students and professionals, emphasizing mentorship, skill development, and holistic learning.
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Professional and paraprofessional staff development
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Mentorship programs (advising, staff-to-staff, staff-to-student, and student-to-student)
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Leadership development training and certification programs
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Volunteering programs and community outreach
Speaking a Common Language
This track explores best practices to foster meaningful, two-way communication with students by aligning our strategies, embracing reflection, and cultivating mutual understanding to meet evolving needs.
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Communication strategies and tools that resonate with today’s students
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Building trust and connection through authentic engagement
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Feedback loops that drive continuous improvement
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Evolving needs & expectations across generations
The Past, Present, and Future
This track reflects on the journey of student affairs, honoring its past, understanding its present, and envisioning its future. Through critical conversations and forward-thinking approaches, we explore how institutions can adapt, grow, and leave a lasting impact.
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Building institutional legacies through strategic planning and sustainable practices
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Leveraging data and analytics for informed decision-making and planning
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Career services alignment with the evolving labor market
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EdTech, AI, and the Impact of Technology within Student Affairs
Program Submission Writing Tips
Program Submission Writing Tips
NASPA Engagement Opportunities
Awards
Each year, the MENASA Area recognizes the outstanding contributions of members who are transforming higher education through exceptional programs, innovative services, and effective administration. MENASA's Merit Awards cover five categories crucial to the success of students and the continued growth of the Student Affairs profession. Winners are recognized and honored in spring 2027. If you become a NASPA member today, you will not only be able to attend the conference but also potentially have your institution recognized for outstanding contributions! The deadline to submit your MENASA Merit Award is October 1, 2026.
Merit in Collaborative Partnerships
Merit in Innovative Practices
Merit in Student Success
Merit in Research
Dedicated Professional (Commitment to the MENASA Area)
Please review each award for individual criteria and requirements via the links below.
For any questions: Contact our Merit Awards team at [email protected].
We look forward to celebrating our deserving colleagues and peers in March 2027!
