Ready to Head Home

I've been here in New Orleans since last Wednesday night. The two conferences have been great: the first focused on research, the second on practice. Both provided opportunities to network, learn about research, and hear about some of the innovative practices at community colleges. Most colleges are facing the same issues no matter where they are in the U.S.: increasing enrollment, shrinking revenues, and vacancies at the executive leadership level that they can't fill. There are really some tremendous opportunities for people who want to become college Vice Presidents and Presidents; yet, the daunting challenges are keeping many away. I'm looking forward to studying (and reporting on) those colleges that are investing in professional development and succession planning. It's so important to develop folks who are really excited about stepping into these key leadership positions. So, future leaders ... think about it. What do you need to do to prepare yourself for the next steps? There are lots of professional development activities -- check out AACC: there's the Future Leaders Institute and other activities. For student affairs professionals, look to NASPA: there's the Stevens Institute, new SSAO institute, and many others. Develop a strategic plan for your professional development -- we need you!