Region II
Region II
We are committed to meeting the diverse needs of our members and institutions through tailored support and intentional engagement. Our work includes investing in the growth of professionals at every stage of their careers and recognizing the impactful work happening throughout the region. From students and new professionals to mid-level managers and senior leaders, we offer access to programs, mentoring, and meaningful avenues for involvement and leadership. Together, we continue to build a strong, connected, and thriving Region II community.
Message from the Director
Greetings!
The work we do to support student success and create opportunities for growth and development is more critical than ever in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. Regardless of when we entered this field, we were driven by a shared passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to making a difference. I encourage all of us to reflect on what inspired us to join this profession and to come together in support of one another.
As members of Region II, I invite you to explore meaningful ways to stay connected. Whether you're joining virtual or in-person sessions, mentoring, facilitating, or sharing your expertise in other ways—your time, creativity, and support are truly invaluable. I encourage you to engage in ways that are meaningful to you and fit within your busy schedule.
As we move forward together, I’m honored to serve as your director. I look forward to building on the strengths of our Region II community—and to a term defined by collaboration, connection, and a shared commitment to excellence.
NASPA Region II is on the move!
Francisco Díaz
Region II Director
ABOUT
WHO WE ARE
We are dedicated to advancing student affairs as a profession—both within and beyond our region—by providing impactful training and development opportunities. We actively explore and engage with critical higher education topics to better support both our students and our members. Through mentorship, guidance, and leadership opportunities, we foster a community that remains innovative, relevant, and committed to excellence year-round.
TERRITORY
NASPA Region II encompasses Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.
REGIONAL CONFERENCE
Each June, Region II brings together its dedicated community of Student Affairs professionals and students for the annual Region II Conference—an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow while reaffirming a shared commitment to student success.
- 2025 Region II Conference – June 2, 3, 4th, Pittsburgh, PA
- 2026 Region II Conference – June (Dates and Location TBA)
Advisory Board
The Region II Advisory Board oversees the region's operations and supports the development and implementation of both in-person and virtual training opportunities. The Board also advances regional and national initiatives, represents the interests of members and institutions across member states, and collaborates with NASPA’s Knowledge Communities to support their work locally and nationally.
Complete Your Profile
Login and update your profile.
Awards
Please consider joining us at our 2025 Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, PA this June to honor these outstanding leaders in our field.
| New Professional Award | Diane DiClementi, SUNY Albany |
| Mid-Level Professional Award | Dr. Deanne DeCrescenzo, Temple University |
| Mid-Level Professional Award | Kathryn DeVinney, Nazareth College |
| Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Award | Jamal T. Johnson, The College of New Jersey |
| Outstanding Contribution to Student Leadership Programs | Scott Siegel, Columbia University Business School |
| Outstanding Contribution to Higher Education | Dr. Dawn Meza Soufleris, Montclair State University |
| Scott Goodnight Award for Outstanding Performance as a Dean | Dr. Anne Newman, Rutgers University, New Brunswick |
| Fred Turner Award for Outstanding Service to NASPA | Dr. Delmy M. Lendof, Pratt Institute |
| Spirit of Region II Marijo Russell O’Grady | Tricia Debertolis Napolitano, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University |
Member Spotlight
This form is intended to allow Region II Members to highlight themselves or a colleague who is doing exceptional work, or leading initiatives and programs that make a significant impact on student success. It is our hope to be able recognize the colleagues and programs that make our campuses thrive through our Region II Social Media platforms and regional newsletters. Anyone is able to fill this out and self-nominations are accepted!
May 2025 Spotlights!
Beatrice DeBelen, Student Services Coordinator, University of Maryland College Park
"Beatrice leads and supports a range of student-centered initiatives that directly enhance student success from recruitment through graduation. Most recently, she coordinated the Classroom to Careers: Public Policy Alumni Expo, which connected 75 current students with alumni working across sectors to explore real-world career pathways.Beatrice also oversees the undergraduate public policy ambassador program and coordinate recruitment and admission events, ensuring students feel welcomed, prepared, and empowered throughout their time at the University of Maryland, College Park School of Public Policy."
Cristhian Altamirano, Associate Director, Early College Program, Hudson County Community College
"Cristhian consistently goes above and beyond to support our department and elevate our programs. He brings innovation and dedication to everything he does—whether it's leading workshops, supporting colleagues’ growth, or finding creative ways to enhance student success. Most recently, he defended his dissertation and officially became Dr. Altamirano—an incredible achievement that reflects his commitment to both scholarship and service!"
Justin Makowski, Assistant Director, One Stop Services Center, Rutgers University - New Brunswick
"Justin exemplifies the transformative impact of Enrollment Management professionals who embrace Student Affairs values. Through his leadership and partnership with the Office of the Dean of Students Advocacy, Outreach & Support, Rutgers–New Brunswick has strengthened the depth and breadth of collaborative initiatives focused on removing barriers for students with complex needs—efforts that have significantly enhanced student support and success. His work also exemplifies the power of bridging traditionally siloed areas like Enrollment Management and Student Affairs to create a student-centered model of service delivery."
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.
If you are interested in planning an event for the Region, you must fill out this form. The completed form will be sent to your Regional Director and Regional Treasurer for approval. They'll be in touch with further information.
Blog Series
Blogs
History
NASPA Region II has long been one of the largest regions (by membership) due to the number of colleges and universities located in the Middle-Atlantic United States. The leadership of Region II strives to recognize the excellent work being done within the region as well building talent at all levels by providing members with professional development and networking opportunities. Each year, Region II celebrates its community of student affairs professionals and students at the Region II Conference, held annually in June. We have several pages dedicated to the history of Region II in an attempt to help create a repository for members to see what we have done and what we still need to do. Feel free to peruse and let us know if we are missing something or there is something that you would like to see!
NASPA National History Timeline
NASPA Regional History Timeline
NASPA Region II History (including past regional leaders and conferences)
- Jeffrey S. Putman, NASPA Region II Historian
Strategic Plan 2025
Check back soon for more information on our updated strategic plan!