BRTC Vice President of Student Affairs Jason Smith and Courtney Rowe, Senior Vice President of corporate communications at NBC Universal, speak to the crowd at the Arkansas Student Affairs Association 2023 Spring conference.
Black River Technical College’s (BRTC) Student Affairs team recently travelled to Conway where they attended the Arkansas Student Affairs Association (ArSAA) 2023 Spring conference.
BRTC Vice President of Student Affairs Jason Smith serves as the ArSAA President for the year.
The conference brought together over 130 student affairs professionals from across the state for a day of networking, knowledge sharing, and inspiration.
The conference featured numerous breakout sessions covering a wide range of current topics in the field of student affairs. From best practices to promoting student success to creating inclusive campus environments, attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and learn from experts in their respective areas. A highlight of the event was the chance for new professionals to connect with seasoned veterans, fostering an environment of mentorship and the exchange of best practices.
The pinnacle of the conference came with the keynote address delivered by Courtney Rowe, a distinguished figure in the world of communications and a native of Stamps, Arkansas. Rowe captivated the audience with her personal journey from a small rural town in Arkansas to holding prominent positions of influence in the nation.
Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of corporate communications at NBC Universal, Rowe has a remarkable track record of professional accomplishments. Prior to her role at NBC, she played a crucial part in the Biden Administration’s strategic communications and public engagement efforts for the United States’ response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Rowe’s experience also includes serving as the Vice President of Corporate Communications for National Geographic, a division of the Walt Disney Company.
Notably, Rowe’s national recognition stems from her service to President Barack Obama as the Director of Message Planning. In this role, she oversaw all presidential policy announcements and the planning of significant events, including two State of the Union Addresses. Her remarkable ascent to the nation’s highest positions exemplifies the transformative impact that young individuals from Arkansas can have on a national scale.
The ArSAA membership was enthralled by Rowe’s inspiring message, which emphasized the importance of investing in the young people of Arkansas. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, resilience, and support individuals from all backgrounds can achieve great success and contribute to the betterment of society.
As the conference drew to a close, attendees left feeling motivated and inspired to continue their important work in student affairs. The 2023 Spring Conference provided an invaluable platform for professionals in Arkansas to come together, share insights, and strengthen their commitment to enhancing the lives of students across the state.
Smith stated, “ArSAA remains committed to fostering professional growth, networking opportunities, and the advancement of student affairs in Arkansas. With the success of the Spring Conference, the association continues to demonstrate its dedication to supporting the development of student affairs professionals and ultimately shaping a brighter future for the students of Arkansas.”
BRTC Student Affairs Team (L to R): Academic Counselor Kyler Brinkley, Director of Admissions Mary Anderson, Career Pathways Coordinator of Recruitment, Retention, & Placement Bridget Guess, Financial Aid Advisor & Default Prevention Specialist Eugenia Morris, Director of Career Pathways Margo Davis, Academic Advisor Michelle Wooldridge, Admissions Counselor Erin Kerley-Mathews, Academic Counselor Mark Towell, and Director of Student Development/Dean of Students Dane Dillion