Stony Brook University’s Division of Student Affairs recently hosted its first Regional Student Affairs Senior Leadership Conference, bringing together representatives from 20 campuses across the New York Metro and Long Island region. The event aimed to encourage collaboration among senior student affairs leaders and address current challenges in higher education.
Unity Watts-Bailey, director of residential education for apartments, suites and Southampton campus at Stony Brook, explained the motivation behind the conference: “I had this moment where I thought, why aren’t we bringing people together? We’re all dealing with the same challenges, but often in silos. This was about creating a space where senior student affairs leaders could learn from one another and move the work forward together.”
The conference included networking sessions, workshops, and discussions on topics such as student access to care, equity and inclusion, and new approaches to campus services. Rick Gatteau, vice president of the Division of Student Affairs at Stony Brook University, said: “We wanted to strengthen and deepen our connections. By gathering together, we can think collectively about how our region can influence the narrative of higher education and strengthen the student experience.”
Watts-Bailey added: “Time is money, especially at the senior level. The fact that people chose to be here really showed how much this kind of connection and collaboration matters.”
Participants attended a range of workshops focused on practical applications for their campuses. The afternoon session featured presentations from various universities showcasing programs designed to improve student engagement and support. These initiatives were created with adaptability in mind so that institutions could adjust them based on their specific needs.
“We were very intentional about making sure these ideas were adaptable,” Watts-Bailey said. “Not every institution looks the same, but everyone here is working with the resources they have to support students in meaningful ways.”
Highlighted programs included Columbia University’s Return to Columbia initiative for students returning from conduct suspensions; NYIT’s Bear Boutique offering affordable college attire; and Rec Lockers allowing students to rent sports equipment.
“This is where real opportunities happen,” Watts-Bailey said. “These conversations lead to new ideas, new partnerships, and sometimes even the next step in someone’s career.”
The conference concluded with remarks from Stony Brook University President Andrea Goldsmith addressing ongoing challenges in higher education. She stressed the importance of innovative strategies for supporting students beyond traditional metrics like GPA or retention rates.
Goldsmith also reaffirmed Stony Brook’s focus on inclusivity: “Diversity is about excellence. Inclusion is about ensuring that everyone can come to the table and fully participate. Equity is about fairness, giving all students the tools to achieve their full potential. That is what we are about as educators,” she said.
— Emily Cappiello
