The 2023 NACAC Conference in Baltimore was a gathering of minds, a space where ideas collided, and where the future of college admissions was charted. As we reflect on this year’s event, we’re excited to share with you the highlights that promise to shape the landscape of our profession in the coming years.
Hot Topics: A Glimpse into the Future
Staff Morale in Our Profession: One of the hot topics that resonated with attendees was the well-being of our staff. In the world of college admissions, where the stakes are high, it’s easy to overlook the importance of staff morale. The discussions at the conference emphasized the need to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of our dedicated professionals.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept—it’s here, and it’s transforming the college admissions process. From automating routine tasks to providing personalized recommendations, AI promises to enhance efficiency while raising questions about ethics and fairness. We delved into these critical conversations at the conference.
Changes to FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is undergoing significant changes. Understanding how these changes will impact the upcoming year is essential for counselors and educators. Insights shared during the conference helped us prepare for the evolving financial aid landscape.
NACAC Highlights: A Glance Behind the Scenes
The conference was not just about the topics discussed; it was also about the people who made it happen. NACAC as an organization shone brightly this year, with a well-attended event featuring remarkable speakers and moments to remember.
Jay Shetty’s Invigorating Talk: We were privileged to listen to a talk by Jay Shetty, a renowned storyteller and motivational speaker. His insights on personal growth and purpose resonated deeply with attendees, reminding us all of the power of inspiration.
A Stellar Panel Discussion: The conference kicked off with a panel discussion that included prominent figures like Miguel Cardona, the U.S. Secretary of Education, and Maryland’s Governor. Their collective wisdom sheds light on the intersection of education policy and practice, offering valuable insights into the future of college admissions.
Leadership Transition: Angelica Melendez took the helm as the new Chair of the Board for NACAC. Her vision and leadership promise to guide our organization toward even greater heights, reinforcing NACAC’s commitment to serving the educational community