Subject to Change

Sunday - November 8, 2026

Pre-Conference Sessions

12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Becoming a Trusted Campus Partner: Building Credibility, Influence, and Strategic Relationships Across the Institution

Presenter: Alex Underwood, University Registrar & Associate Dean, Enrollment Management, The University of Arizona
Admissions, registrar, and other enrollment-related offices play a critical role in enabling student success, but their effectiveness often depends on the relationships they build across the institution. Offices that are viewed as trusted partners are better positioned to collaborate, solve problems, and advance student-centered outcomes. This interactive workshop explores how offices can build credibility, strengthen campus relationships, and navigate institutional dynamics with political savvy and professionalism. Participants will learn practical strategies for stakeholder engagement, communication, and collaboration that increase their office's effectiveness and institutional impact.

Making Your Voice Heard: Strategies for Effective Higher Education Advocacy

Presenter: Scott Filter, Director of Government Relations, AACRAO

Effective advocacy starts with understanding how policy is made—and how your expertise can influence it. This interactive workshop will provide higher education professionals with practical strategies for engaging policymakers and advancing issues that matter to their institutions and students. Participants will learn how to develop effective advocacy messages, communicate with elected officials and their staff, build relationships and coalitions, and translate their professional expertise into compelling policy arguments.

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