The RELI Experience

I recently wrapped up a fantastic professional development experience at the Regional Entry Level Institute through UMR-ACUHO.

I had the privilege of serving as a faculty member at the institute, which was a four-day gathering of new professionals (most with 1-3 years of professional experience) to connect, share and learn about housing and residence life. There were nine faculty and about 30 participants and it was an incredible experience.

 

There is such tremendous value in thinking locally and regionally about professional development and RELI was a prime example of the power of connecting in this way. I presented on professional development and will write a blog post soon about the ideas I have about development of new professionals.


The wonderful staff at the University of Northern Iowa put together this event and they covered every detail imaginable. Faculty presentations focused on assessment, supervision, legal issues, crisis management, facilities management, conference management, budgeting, occupancy management, navigating politics and professional development.

I certainly learned much more than I was able to share as a faculty member and I am deeply appreciative of this opportunity.

 

If you work in student affairs and are looking for professional development opportunities, think locally and regionally. Yes, it's usually cheaper to do so, but don't think locally or regionally just because budgets are tight for most of us right now... do it because there are incredibly talented people all around you in this field! You don't have to go far to learn a lot.

I'm excited to sit down and write about my session on professional development - stay tuned!

Photos by Sarah Holmes