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ACSD Executive Committee Candidate INformation

All current members are encouraged to vote in the ACSD election.  
To vote, be sure to log-in using your current ACSD member credentials and you will see a “Vote Now” button appear at the bottom of this page.

Conference Chair

Position:

  • Associate Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students, Anderson University

Education:

  • B.S. in Youth Ministry, Greenville University, Greenville, IL
  • M. Ed. in College Student Affairs, Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, CA

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of membership: 23 years
  • National Conference Attendance: 03, 04, 06, 08, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 25
  • 2023 ACSD Conference Chair, Anderson University

Goals for the Position:

  • Be a readily available source of support, encouragement, and constructive feedback to the hosting University.
  • Work with the Association and the hosting school to develop new initiatives that meet the needs of members.
    • One specific area that I would like to see developed is creating more intentional opportunities for members to connect with one another at the conference.  This has always been one of the most valuable aspects of the conference for me personally, and I would like to explore unique ways that each host can incorporate this into the conference.
  • Develop an annual survey (outside of the conference survey) that gives members the opportunity to make suggestions for future conferences.
  • Develop a planning timeline to help the hosting university to stay on track and not feel overwhelmed with the planning process. 
  • Make sure that there are consistent platforms for conference promotion and registration to increase awareness and provide easy onboarding for attendees.

Vision for ACSD:

My vision for ACSD is that it be a place of support and encouragement for student development staff working at universities and colleges across the country.  The Association should be a source for best practices and the most up to date resources that assist members to do the work that the Lord has called them to.  

The ACSD conference should be a place of hope, rest, renewal and fellowship with fellow believers who are called to the work of student development.

Position:

  • Dean of Students, The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, TX

Education:

  • B.A. in Religion, Oklahoma Baptist University, Shawnee, OK
  • M.Ed., Student Affairs, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK
  • Ph.D., Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of membership: 20
  • National Conference Attendance, 2006-2024
  • 2024 Annual Conference Host Chair
  • Presentation: “Decreasing Compassion Fatigue: A Collaborative Effort,” Evangel University, 2011
  • Presentation: “Developing Intercultural Competence at a Predominantly White University,” John Brown University, 2017

Goals for the Position:

  • Strengthen the feedback loop between the Annual Conference Host team and the Executive Committee through regular check-ins and clear approval processes.
  • Translate the Executive Committee’s expectations to the hosts and help align objectives with ACSD’s long-term strategic goals.
  • Provide Host School with clarity and confidence as they navigate the logistics of the conference, including budgeting, program vetting, and maintaining the flavor of the host campus.
  • Prioritize the well-being of the (Co)Chair(s) to prevent burnout and foster a joyful planning environment.
  • Follow up with the host team to debrief and produce a helpful post-conference report.
  • Develop relationships with future host schools to maintain a healthy annual conference schedule.

Vision for ACSD:

ACSD is a vibrant community of educators who walk together throughout the year, culminating in an Annual Conference that serves as our anchor point. While it’s often hard to explain the weight of our work to those outside of it, ACSD is the place where you never have to. It is a gathering where new professionals are mentored and seasoned leaders are challenged. By fostering year-round connections, we provide a sacred space to collectively exhale. Ultimately, we empower professionals to lean into their calling, returning to campus refreshed, re-anchored in Christ, and supported by lifelong friendships. I love ACSD and want for others what ACSD has given to me.

diversity chair

Education:

  • BA in Psychology from the University of North Texas; Denton, TX
  • MA in Youth and Family Ministries from John Brown University; Siloam Springs, AR
  • EdD Higher Education Leadership from Bethel University; St. Paul, MN

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of membership 15
    • Conference attendance: 13
    • Positions: 
      • Non-Faith Based Collaborative leader 2024-Present
      • New Professionals Chair: 2023-2024
      • New Professionals Facilitator: 2022-2024
      • Diversity Leadership Team:2017-2022
    • Presentations and topics
      • 2011: Codependency (Co-led)
      • 2016: Career and community engagement for First-Year Students (led)
      • 2017: Student Leadership Training Best Practices (co-led)
      • 2021: Careers after Residence Directing (Panel)
      • 2022: Research Presentation: Students taking non-credit developmental coursework
      • 2023: Keeping the Faith (Panel)
      • 2024: Peer coaching: Students Supporting Students & High Impact Practices for online and in-person Student Leader interviews 
    • Webinars:
      •  2020: Racial Reconciliation

Goals for the Position:

  1. Listening to Promote Belonging and Representation – To truly amplify voices, we must listen well, share our stories, and recognize our shared identity as brothers and sisters in Christ. By fostering these connections, we cultivate a community that reflects the love and unity of God’s Kingdom.
  2. Raising Up Leaders – Diversity is a reflection of God’s creative design, and we are called to equip and empower one another in leadership. As Diversity Chair, I am eager not only to serve but to develop others by creating leadership and professional development opportunities within ACSD. New voices bring new perspectives, ensuring that we remain responsive to the evolving needs of Christian higher education while faithfully stewarding the gifts God has given us.
  3. Strengthening Connections – Intentional community through mentorship, meetups, and strategic partnerships will provide a lasting link between ACSD’s past, present, and future. Additionally, by gathering and utilizing data, we can steward our diversity efforts wisely, ensuring that we glorify God in our work and create spaces where all members of ACSD can flourish in their calling.

I am excited about the opportunity to serve in this capacity, and I pray that through this role, we can continue the work of building an ACSD community that honors the beauty of God’s diverse creation while remaining steadfast in our shared mission and faith.

Vision for ACSD:

I have had the privilege of witnessing the development of this role over the past several years as a former member of the Diversity Leadership Team. My vision for the Chair position is to continue building on the strong foundation laid by previous leaders. By amplifying diverse voices, fostering professional development opportunities, and creating meaningful connections, I aim to ensure all members feel seen, heard, and valued. My experience with the New Professionals and as co-leader of the Non-Faith-Based Professionals Collaborative has deepened my commitment to intentional mentorship and inclusivity. God calls us to unity in diversity, and I’m dedicated to fostering a community where everyone can thrive in faith & vocation, reflecting His Kingdom’s richness.

Education:

  • BS in Communications, Houghton University, Houghton, NY
  • MA in Higher Education and Student Development, Taylor University, Upland, IN

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of membership: 6 years
  • Diversity Team Member

Goals for the Position:

  • Continue to develop and offer the Elevate Professional Development Training
  • Revamp and cultivate engaging collaboratives that strengthen institutional partnerships. 
  • The goal would utilize the ACSD network portals to promote and share best practices, and ideas across our institutions to enhance our diversity, equity and belonging to ensure we maintain biblical diversity and a student-centered focus.
  •  

Vision for ACSD:
My vision for ACSD is to foster spaces of meaningful connection and engagement that equip professionals to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of higher education. I am committed to advancing professional development opportunities, collaborative initiatives, and diverse perspectives that empower us to thrive in our work. As a Christ-centered organization, ACSD offers a unique lens through which we serve students with care, compassion, and purpose, rooted in the teachings of Jesus and dedicated to fostering inclusive and transformative communities.

To vote, please be sure to log in using your ACSD member credentials and you’ll find the “Vote Now” button will appear below May 20-27 when voting is live.

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Comfort Olugbuyi

Florida Atlantic University, Associate Director for Center for Learning and Student Success and eSuccess   

Workshop: Be the Standout: Elevating your Workshop Skills

Dr. Comfort Olugbuyi comes to Florida Atlantic University with a B.A. in Psychology from the University of North Texas, an M.A. in Youth and Family ministries from John Brown University, and a Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership from Bethel University (MN). Comfort’s research and experience focuses on academic support for college students. She looks for opportunities to support students where they are in the ever-changing world and create partnerships and connections to close gaps and increase retention and overall sense of belonging for students. Comfort joined ACSD June 2008 and has loved the partnership, friendships, mentorships, and overall camaraderie experienced through the years. She currently serves as the Chair of the Diversity Leadership Team, and previously served as New Professional Retreat facilitator (Vice Chair and Chair).

Dr. Comfort Olugbuyi has almost two decades of higher education experience in various positions. She started as a Graduate Assistant Caterer and event coordinator at the University of North Texas, moving on to a Resident Director at John Brown University and Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA). Comfort then spent over a decade in various student affairs positions at Palm Beach Atlantic University within First Year Advising, Academic Support, and Disability Services. She had additional opportunities to invest and support employee professional development, employee health and wellness, multicultural programming, and NCAA athletics all at PBA. Currently, Comfort serves as the Associate Director of Academic Support at Florida Atlantic University, which is part of the Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS) where she provides academic support and serves as a liaison to online and hybrid students to all six campuses. When she is not on a college campus you can find Comfort serving at her local church as a welcome host and greeter, volunteering at local community events, or watching local musical theater/play productions.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
Dr. Olugbuyi is excited and honored to partner with Elevate. There is tremendous value within this professional development opportunity. Comfort is excited to share her ideas through her unique perspectives. She looks forward to collaborating with this group of professionals to share information and offer support in helping to create workshops to enhance ACSD and other conferences.

Shino Simons

Keck Graduate Institute, Dean of Students

Workshop: Strategic Planning: How to Create a Multicultural Strategy in Your Area of Influence

Shino was born in Japan and raised in Hawaii. Shino has served in higher education for the past 27 years, and she felt the call to raise up the next generation of leaders through higher education. She began her career as a resident director but quickly rose to various leadership positions, including associate director of residence life, directorship in various offices, Title IX Coordinator, associate dean of students, Vice President for Student Affairs, and currently the Dean of Students at Keck Graduate Institute.

Shino received her B.A. in Psychology and M.Ed. in College Student Affairs from Azusa Pacific University. She continued her education at Claremont Graduate University and received her Ph.D. in Higher Education, where she learned from scholars such as Dr. Daryl Smith, Dr. Linda Perkins, and Dr. Susan Paik.

Shino has been married for almost 26 years to Eric, and they have two beautiful, fun, strong, smart, and crazy kids (Kayla, 17 and Travis, 13). She loves having great conversations over a good cup of coffee (and dessert). She especially enjoys seeing the next generation of leaders be trained, equipped and developed so that they can continue to lean into what God is calling them to do.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
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Kevin Villegas

Baylor University, Dean of Intercultural Engagement and Division of Student Life Initiatives

Workshop: Starting with You: Self-awareness and Sustainability

Dr. Kevin Villegas serves as the Dean of Intercultural Engagement and Division of Student Life Initiatives. In his role, Dr. Villegas is responsible for leading a comprehensive approach to empower all students and Division of Student Life staff in the creation of a more vibrant, inclusive, and supportive campus environment as an expression of the Baylor University mission. He has more than two decades of demonstrated leadership experience in a variety of roles within higher- and secondary-education settings, which includes working in or overseeing areas such as campus ministries, student leadership development, new student orientation, student activities, international student programs, athletics coaching, and public relations. He has also led international service trips, co-led a cross-cultural course, and taught strategic leadership in higher education, and leadership and first-year seminar courses for undergraduate students. 

Dr. Villegas is an active member of the Association for Christians in Student Development (ACSD) and served for several years on the executive committee as the chair of the Diversity Leadership Team. He was a recipient of ACSD’s Jane Higa Multicultural Advancement Award in recognition of his significant contributions toward increased understanding and promotion of multiculturalism in ACSD and at Messiah University, where he worked for 17 years. Beyond the realm of education, Dr. Villegas also worked in the entertainment industry and in pastoral ministry. 

A native of New York City, Dr. Villegas is a decorated veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served on active duty for four years before going on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree in communication from Messiah College, his Master of Arts degree in Christian Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary, and his Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Gwynedd Mercy University.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
I’m excited to be a part of Elevate because equipping our professional members to better serve and develop multicultural student populations on our respective campuses is vital work. In an increasingly diverse society, knowing how to navigate differences of all sorts with conviction and compassion is needed now more than ever.

Leah Fulton

Trinity Christian College – Palos Heights, IL, Vice President of Student Success

Workshop: Development: Institutional Partnerships and Operational Efficiency

Leah comes to Trinity with a B.A. from Ball State University, an M.A. in Intercultural Studies from Wheaton College, and a Ph.D. in Higher Education with a minor in African American Studies from the University of Minnesota. Leah’s research explores the historical and contemporary motivations and barriers facing African Americans in foreign missions, the history of Black women in doctoral education and the experiences of Black mother doctoral students. She also studies the experience of students and adjunct faculty of color in leadership education.

Leah has over a decade of higher education experience, primarily in student affairs, beginning at Wheaton College where she was a founding member of the Shalom House- a living learning community for students to explore racial reconciliation. She has served as Assistant Dean of Students for the University of St. Thomas and as Associate Dean for Intercultural Student Programs and Services at Bethel University where she launched the Act Six program and the Cultural Connection Center- a campus affinity space designed to cultivate understanding, friendship, and shalom in the way of Jesus. She is also the founder and principal consultant for Project 51, which serves leaders and not-for-profit organizations seeking to grow in their approach to justice, to belonging, to equity, and to diversity.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
Dr. Fulton is excited to be part of Elevate because of how important it is to support professionals of color in Christian higher education. She benefited from the wisdom and experience of professionals before her and is eager to invest in other professionals to support their ability to navigate the industry, care for students, be well, and effectively make lasting change.

Jerry Woehr

Wheaton College, Director of International Student Programs

Workshop: International Students: Your Role in Their Flourishing

As Director of International Student Programs at Wheaton College, Jerry empowers international students (F-1 visa, MKs & TCKs) to flourish by advising student organizations,  advocating for international student needs, mentoring students, and providing leadership for the F-1 visa student program. Partnering with his office staff and student leaders, Jerry seeks to fulfill a vision of developing students that follow Jesus, as members of God’s global kingdom, through relationships that foster belonging, active learning experiences, and meaningful engagement with their communities. He considers it a privilege to know God more deeply through his experience, and support of, a vibrant and multicultural community at Wheaton.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
I hope to encourage the Elevate cohort with the experiences and lessons God has given me in higher education, just as so many have done (and still do) for me! I also had the unique privilege of being a part of the team that created the Elevate certificate and returning as a workshop presenter is a gift.

Nii Kpakpo Abrahams

Butler University, Senior Director, Student Experience and Engagement

Workshop: Programming: Innovative Approaches to Multicultural Programming

Nii Kpakpo Abrahams serves as the inaugural Senior Director of Student Experience and Engagement at Butler University. While reporting through Academic Affairs, the office sits between university divisions to partner with and collaborate across campus to cultivate a relationship-rich, high-impact, and seamless student experience that fosters a sense of belonging for all students. He is extremely passionate about helping college students discover, develop, and deploy their giftings and passions. In addition to his work at Butler, Nii is a church planter in the Indianapolis metro area. He holds both his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Communication from Missouri State University. In his downtime, you can find him spending time with his wife and daughter, playing Monopoly Deal, and searching for the best donut shops in Indianapolis.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?

As a Ghanaian-American, I uniquely understand the weight multicultural practitioners carry cultivating belonging on campus. It’s an honor to help develop and encourage leaders who are making an impact across the country!

MORE FAq's

Elevate is geared toward higher education professionals serving in a student-facing, multicultural role and are either (or both) a department of one or are early in their higher education career. Those in positions of directors, coordinators, specialists, or similar titles should consider applying and participating.

ELEVATE is aimed at professionals who are student-facing and oversee programming. We want to equip our student development professionals who are working to make a more welcoming compass experience for students.

Elevate applications will be reviewed by the ACSD Diversity Leadership Team and participants will be selected based on the following criteria:

  • Applicant is eager for new learning and support (department of one, early career professional in this field)
  • Applicant is interested in learning more about best practices within multicultural (higher ed) work
  • Applicant currently serves in student facing multicultural role (part time or full time)
  • Applicants have the support and institutional backing to participate in 2 ASCD conferences, all Elevate workshops, and to eventually use their learning to strengthen the impact of their department/role/institution.
  • Applicant will document how they will contribute to the cohort and shared learning experience

The Diversity Leadership Team will award 2 Elevate scholarships that cover the cost of the Elevate Certification (value of $300). To be considered for an Elevate Scholarship, indicate your interest in the Elevate application and complete the short answer question about financial need.

Yes, Elevate applicants and/or participants are eligible for both the ACSD Multicultural Scholarship and the Elevate Scholarship. The ACSD Multicultural Conference Scholarship covers the amount of the annual conference registration fee.

Yes, either a supervisor or a senior colleague must complete a professional reference form confirming their support of your participation in Elevate and a desire for you to return with lessons (ideas, practices, policies, programs, etc.) that will positively influence your department and work.

No. A supervisor or senior colleague approval is required to ensure that participants have departmental support to implement what they are learning (ideas, practices, policies, programs, etc.) in their department and/or role as a multicultural practitioner.

Participants will continue networking and fostering relationships with their Elevate cohort members in addition to receiving continued support from the ACSD Multicultural Collaborative and the Diversity Leadership Team. 

Elevate participants will be asked to participate in recruitment videos, photos, and provide written testimonials sharing their experience with Elevate.

The Diversity Leadership Team understands department budgets or personal changes may occur between conferences and will work with you to ensure attendance is possible for both conferences.

Yes. The Diversity Leadership Team understands professional changes happen and they will work with you to continue towards completion of the certification.

ACSD Executive Committee voting is now live!