I have been involved in NASPA since 2021 and I have really enjoyed my time within the organization. The ability to connect with colleagues across the region and nation while learning and developing myself have been vital to my professional growth. I chose to be a NASPA member because of the knowledge communities and the focus on uplifting voices, experiences, and accomplishments of historically marginalized people. NASPA serves as a professional home for me and so many others, which is why I chose NASPA and it chose me!

I am going on my 3rd year as a member of NASPA and I really enjoy utilizing all of the resources available to us. As the state membership coordinator for New Mexico, it was very important to me to bring a professional development opportunity for our colleagues to partake in. The drive-in conference was a HUGE success.

I've been a NASPA member since 2010. I am current a member of the NASPA AVP Steering Committee and was a member of the NASPA Culture of Respect CORE Blueprint review team. I have presented at the national conference and AVP Symposium, and have been a program reviewer as well. However, when I think of NASPA, I think of community. It has allowed me to connect with peers, colleagues, and mentors who push me to grow and learn. They are also there to lean on during challenging times.

When I attended my first NASPA annual conference in 2002 as a M/NUFP fellow, I never could have imagined the impact that the organization would have on me personally and professionally. Over the last 20 years, I have had the opportunity to serve NASPA and the larger field of Student Affairs in various capacities, but it's been the relationships that I've developed throughout the years that I hold the most dear. As I reflect upon my journey, I carry gratitude for the individuals that I've worked with already, and have great optimism and excitement for the experiences and connections yet to come.