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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.

President-elect

Education:

  • BA in English, Northwestern College (IA)
  • MA in Student Affairs Administration, Michigan State University

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of Membership: 1996-2025 (Though I was not a full member every year, I’ve held membership for the majority of  those years) 

  • National Conference Attendance: 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2019, 2021 (online), 2023, 2024 

Presentations:

  • NPR facilitator 2011 and 2012
  • EPR facilitator 2023, 2024, 2025
  • Presenter, “Joy & Learning: Assessment of Co-curricular Outcomes” ACSD 2019
  • Presenter, “Two Become One: The integration of curricular and co-curricular offices to advance institutional mission and strategic plans” ACSD 2011
  • Participant in midwest regional ACSD conferences 2000, 2001

Goals for the Position:

  1. Bring value and joy to members
  2. Provide spiritually rich professional development for Christians in student affairs 
  3. Increase partnerships with organizations that can mutually benefit from working with ACSD
  4. Invite members from all generations to give and receive talents and gifts across the organization

Vision for ACSD:

I envision ACSD to be a vital space for Christians from any institutional type to experience life-long professional formation. In a sector fraught with scarcity, ACSD is a community that fosters abundance through human connection marked by joy, insight, and renewal that leads to flourishing. And, flourishing, joy-filled student affairs professionals are the ones who confidently shape lives. They address challenges and embrace innovation with the support of their ACSD network. It is my deep hope that God will continue to bless ACSD through an increasingly diverse membership that partners with other organizations who share this calling. 

Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts, Communications, Messiah University, PA
  • Master of Arts, Christian Leadership, Fuller Theological Seminary, CA
  • Doctor of Education, Educational Leadership, Gwynedd Mercy University, PA

ACSD Involvement, Positions, and Presentations:

  • Years of membership: 10 years 
  • National Conference Attendance: 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) ● Participant, Mid-Professionals Retreat (June 2016) 
  • Diversity Leadership Team (Member, 2018-2019; Chair, 2019-2022)

Presentations:

  • A Campus Reaction to a “White Student Union” and the Use of Social Media (with Scott Hwang & Kevin Williams, Gordon College, June 2016)
  • Where Do Our Campuses Go From Here? Keeping on the Path of Racial Justice (Webinar, June 2020)
  • The Fragmentation of Evangelicalism (with Olga Dietlin, Indiana Wesleyan University, June 2022)

Goals for the Position:

  • Continue to strengthen organization fiscally through strategic, collaborative, and transparent stewardship of resources and sound decision making.

  • Emphasize the vital importance of engaging with difference of all kinds through civil discourse, civic engagement, and interfaith cooperation in our work as agents of Christ-centered social change

  • Equip members to effectively navigate the rapidly changing landscape of higher education in general, and student development in particular. 
  • Continue to enhance perceived and felt value of organization to members and stakeholders.

Vision for ACSD:
My vision for ACSD is to become the top-of-mind organization for Christian student  development practitioners and scholars desiring enriching professional development  opportunities and resources, and relationship-centered spiritual nourishment to equip and  sustain them in their sacred work.

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 between May 5-16 when voting is live.

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Comfort Olugbuyi

Florida Atlantic University, Associate Director of eSuccess  

Workshop: How to Present Successfully at the ACSD Conference

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 at 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 has served as a member of the Diversity Leadership Team, New Professional Retreat facilitator (Vice Chair and Chair), and in various table hosting opportunities.

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 eSuccess 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 Simmons

University Placeholder, Title

Workshop: Title

Bio

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.

Eric Fehr

Grove City College, Assistant Dean of Student Life

Workshop: From Ideation to a Workshop Proposal

Eric has worked in college student development/higher education since he graduated from Longwood University in 2010, and has been a member of ACSD since 2014. He has held positions overseeing student employment programs for dining service operations, commuter student life programming, student and campus activities, student recreation, student clubs and governance, career services, international student advising, and more. Eric has been married to his wonderful wife, Barbara, since 2011. They have four children: Liam, Benat, Raegan, and McKenzie. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Longwood University (2010), a Master of Science in Education in Student Affairs Administration from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (2014), and a Master of Arts in Religion in Discipleship and Church Administration from Liberty University (2018).  Eric is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Higher Education from Union University.

Why are you excited to be a part of Elevate?
I am excited to participate in sharing my experience and any knowledge/wisdom that the Lord has helped add to my life with others. I believe Elevate is a great opportunity to serve others and I can’t wait to help others prepare to propose workshops for ACSD 2025!

Nii Abrahams

Butler University, Director of the First-Year Experience

Workshop: Next Level Programming

Nii has a special passion for helping college students and young professionals discover and fulfill their God-given potential, whether it’s in ministry or the marketplace. While actively involved in church growing up, it wasn’t until he became a member of a dynamic college ministry at Missouri State University that his faith began to soar. He played an instrumental role in watching the ministry grow from 30 to over 200 people in a couple short years. Shortly after graduate school, he and a group of friends moved to the Indianapolis metro area, by faith, to plant Parkside Church—a young and vibrant faith community that meets at a YMCA, where he serves on the pastoral team as the Connections Pastor. He holds both his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Communication from MSU and is proud to be the inaugural Director of the First-Year Experience at Butler University. In his downtime, you can find him hanging out 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 a year-long certification from June 2024 through June 2025. It begins during the June 2024 ACSD Conference and ends during the June 2025 ACSD Conference.

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.

To provide an intentional space for cohort participants to foster genuine connections and grow their network, the cohort size is 10 participants.

Participants will have 10 total hours of workshop instruction. Additionally, participants should anticipate 5-8 hours of workshop preparation over the year of the certification. Participants are also required to attend the Elevate retreat which is the weekend before (days before) the 2024 ACSD Conference.

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

 

Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status the first week of March 2024.

The Elevate Certification is $300, including all fees for the retreat at the 2024 ACSD Conference and the full-year certification program.

Additional related costs to consider:

    • $100 annual ACSD membership fee
    • $350 (early bird) ACSD Conference registration 
    • Cost of travel to the conference for 2024 and 2025

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.

Those interested in Elevate should only apply if they are certain they can attend the 2024 and 2025 ACSD Conferences.

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!