Reflections From the Global Summit on Student Affairs and Services: An Australian Perspective

Abstract

In 2012, the inaugural Global Summit on Student Affairs and Services was held in Washington, D.C., USA. The Summit was jointly hosted by the IASAS and NASPA, two well-respected associations with interests in the student affairs and student services profession. It aimed to share ideas regarding student services’ role in bettering opportunities for students, consider the changing nature of higher education, discuss common issues and best practice, as well as consider current and future research. The Summit brought together 47 delegates from more than 20 different countries. It resulted in a validation of common challenges, a commitment to common solutions, and a shared understanding of the student services’ context globally. This is a narrative of my experience and my learnings as a representative of the Australia and New Zealand Student Services Association Inc.