As we prepare for the 2020 ACPA National Convention in Nashville, we are excited to share this issue of Developments. This issue includes useful information and reflection about graduate students, new professionals, navigating life in relation to the job. We also are excited to share information about pedagogy and building community around identity and scholarship. Additionally, the work of student affairs professionals related to crisis, risk management, and campus tragedy is included here.
This issue shows the holistic work we do as leaders and learners as well as teachers and trainers. The complexity and importance of building and sustaining community, even in difficult times – maybe especially in difficult times is showcased in our author’s contributions. How we build those connections in order to navigate the constant change of higher education and society is important to explore and understand. The work here can help us continue to have those conversations in community even as the community itself is evolving.
I’ve never been in a job interview and been asked, “How do you do with complete stability?” The fact that question hasn’t come up is a reflection of the work we do and the world we live in. The importance of change is also relevant to this publication. As Developments also continues to change to meet the needs of student affairs students, practitioners, administrators, and faculty, we would like to invite you to join us in the work. We hope you will consider submitting a manuscript to share your thoughts about the issues facing college students and student affairs today. Or you might want to join us as a reviewer to get a perspective on what others’ are doing, thinking, and writing about. Let us know if you would like more information on how to contribute in whatever way makes sense for you.
Thank you for the work you do every day. Best of luck throughout the spring term.
Michelle L. Boettcher
Editor
Kyle Bishop
Co-Editor