Dr. Michael A. Goodman, assistant professor of practice in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy, addressing attendees of the 35th Annual Professional Development Day.
The University of Texas at Austin's Academic Counselors Association (ACA) and the Vick Advising Excellence Center welcomed approximately 300 academic advisors and student support professionals to the 35th Annual Professional Development Day (PDD) on February 21, 2025. Held at Robert B. Rowling Hall, the event centered around the theme "The Heart of Campus: Expanding Support and Keeping the Energy Alive."
The day-long conference kicked off with a keynote address from Dr. Michael A. Goodman, assistant professor of practice in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy and faculty affiliate with LGBTQ Studies in the Center for Women's and Gender Studies. His presentation set the stage for a day focused on enhancing student support through professional growth and community building.
"Professional Development Day provides advisors with the opportunity to explore innovative approaches to student success," said Isabel Alvarado, ACA president. "By gathering to share best practices and learn from one another, we strengthen our ability to support students through their academic journeys."
Throughout the day, participants attended five session blocks of concurrent presentations covering topics ranging from supporting diverse student populations to fostering advisor well-being. Sessions were categorized by professional competency areas including student learning and development, advising techniques, and justice, policy, and practice.
Popular sessions included "The Range of Change: Navigating Change Management as a Leader and Mentor," "College Life Without a Safety Net: Supporting Independent Students and Foster Youth in College," and "We Belong Here: Understanding Students from Lower-Income and Working-Class Backgrounds."
"This year's theme of 'The Heart of Campus' truly resonates with the essential role advisors play in student success," noted Vanessa Garcia from the PDD Committee. "The conversations and connections made today provide tools to help strengthen advising practices across our campus."
The event was made possible through the support of Dean Lillian Mills, who provided Rowling Hall as the venue. Following the formal sessions, many participants continued networking at an optional happy hour at Crown & Anchor Pub.
Professional Development Day is part of UT Austin's ongoing commitment to investing in the professional growth of academic advisors and student support staff, recognizing their crucial role in student retention, persistence, and graduation.