By Tara Kent, Ph.D. , Director, Office of the Registrar at AMDA
This year, I marked my third time attending the AACRAO conference. Interestingly, two out of the three venues—Portland, Oregon, and Denver, Colorado—had long been on my travel wish list. Columbus, Ohio, please don't take offense, as I've frequented it several times and always found it enjoyable. The first conference I attended brought excitement and nervousness due to the unfamiliarity, exacerbated by starting a new job and traveling with my new manager. Despite feeling drained by the conference's end, I returned rejuvenated with fresh insights and eager to implement what I had learned. The second conference I attended was less anxiety-inducing since I knew what to expect. However, I sensed a void in this experience. It reminded me of a sermon I once heard, where the pastor delivered an inspiring message and emphasized the importance of not eating for free. He likened it to being fed with knowledge and life lessons; therefore, we should reciprocate. Upon reflection, I realized the absence in my second conference: although not free, I gained invaluable knowledge and skills from AACRAO members volunteering their time. Upon returning home from Denver, I felt compelled to engage with AACRAO, eager to pay forward the support I had received. By immersing myself in AACRAO and contributing to its endeavors, I fulfilled my commitment to reciprocity and transformed my recent conference experience into a dynamic exchange.
My Involvement Journey
After returning home from the Denver conference, I wasted no time rallying my co-workers to join me in presenting for the first time. Despite my typically introverted nature, I knew I didn't want to tackle this endeavor alone. Surprisingly, the team was persuaded, and together, we submitted a proposal for the 2024 AACRAO Annual Conference. To our excitement, our proposal was accepted, and we were also chosen to have our presentation live-streamed. Talk about pressure.
With the guidance of a mentor I met in Denver, I ventured into writing for Connect. Writing is one of my passions– a trait inherited from my father, an exceptional writer. In the summer of 2023, I applied to volunteer for Hill Day, an experience that simultaneously brought nerves and excitement but proved incredibly rewarding. Feeling emboldened by these experiences, I took a chance and applied for the ASCEND program. I didn't think I stood a chance, but that little voice of doubt didn't hold me back. Looking back, it's clear it was the best decision I've made for my professional development.
Moreover, I became a regular attendee at the monthly Black Caucus meetings, where I enjoyed networking with incredible men and women of higher education. Through these connections, I've been fortunate enough to secure mentors who have played a pivotal role in guiding me through my professional journey. These opportunities – from presenting at conferences to volunteering and networking – have allowed me to grow and learn and fundamentally altered the way I approach AACRAO conferences. They have become more than just annual gatherings; they represent milestones in my personal and professional development journey, marking a significant evolution in how I engage with and contribute to the AACRAO community.
The Contrast of the Third Conference
The third conference was extraordinary, not because of the eclipse, although watching it with my AACRAO family brought on a new bond. We shared a sense of awe, connection, and mutual appreciation for the world's wonders. Seeing my AACRAO family made my third AACRAO annual conference so unique. It was like a family reunion. The chance to hug the men and women who have contributed to my growth and who inspired and encouraged me since the last annual meeting is something that I can hardly put into words. Also remarkable was the chance to stop and look at others who shared the same family reunion experience, which was also uplifting.
The classes that I attended this year were mainly about leadership and inclusion.
Within this theme, I listened to others' voices and gained deeper insights into the challenges individuals from diverse cultural or identity backgrounds face. This time, I allowed Tara to be Tara. In doing so, I met more amazing people who are now a part of my AACRAO family, including the addition of a mentee so that I can continue to pay it forward. This year's AACRAO is the best, and they will only improve.
What’s Next
Remaining stagnant is not an option for me. I will submit a proposal for the 2025 annual conference, increase my involvement within the Black Caucus, and continue with my passion for writing for the Connect. I will graduate from the ASCEND program. I will continue networking and continually seek and apply for opportunities to volunteer. I will listen to podcasts and continue reading the legislative updates Bill Gil works so diligently to put together. To fully utilize the membership sponsored by my institution, it would be unwise not to seize the opportunity to collaborate with them on the current issues and challenges that we encounter in higher education. I have a few questions for you now that I have shared my goals. What will you do this year? How will you grow? How will you use your talents, your skills, and your voice to become more engaged with AACRAO? What does your strategic plan for your professional development look like?
Conclusion
Looking back on my progression from the initial two conferences to the profound transformation I experienced at the 2024 conference, one thing stands out: my willingness to engage has been the ultimate game changer. Each opportunity where I was willing to volunteer has paved the way for a more enriching and impactful conference experience, from overcoming initial anxieties to embracing opportunities for growth and connection. As I look ahead to future endeavors and continued involvement, aside from my obligation to be held accountable to all of the words I just wrote out in my story by all of you who are reading it, I am excited by the prospect of further growth, collaboration, and shared learning. Indeed, my journey with AACRAO has only just begun, and I am eager to see where it leads next.