P.S. Shift Happens Video

Okay, Okay, I guess that was not my last blog post. This is.

Dr. Bernard Franklin was our Tuesday morning General Program speaker, generously funded by a donation to the AFA Foundation from Delta Upsilon International Fraternity. In his remarks, "Change or Die," he referenced a video called, "Shift Happens." Unfortunately that video was not able to be played during his speech, but it is here now for you to watch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljbI-363A2Q

Enjoy!

Flight Status: Delayed!

Since my flight out of Jacksonville is delayed due to "high winds" in the Northeast, I have some time to reflect on the Annual Meeting. I should give Google a special shout out here for the free Wireless in the Jax airport during the holidays!

As I sat to type this blog post, I happened to see four graduate students from Bowling Green State University who stopped to say hello. Each was a first-time attendee of the Annual Meeting, and it was exciting for me to hear them recount their first experience- and as a very positive one at that!

The last day of the Annual Meeting finished strong. Wednesday featured our AFA Business Meeting. Dr. Carolyn Whittier, 2009 AFA President passed the gavel to Kelly Jo Karnes, the 2010 AFA President, and Jay Anhorn, 2008 AFA President, reported on the progress of the 2005-2010 Strategic Plan. Our leadership will foster communication to chart the 2010-2015 Strategic Plan.

Four blocks of educational programs were featured throughout the afternoon, including a two part program for Seasoned Professionals sponsored by Zeta Tau Alpha.

The Silent Auction closed with a staggering $36,000 raised for the AFA Foundation.

In traditional fashion, the Annual Meeting finished with the Closing Banquet that featured the Sue Kraft Fussell Distinguished Service winners (Dan Bureau, Dr. Lori Hart Ebert, Deb Ensor, Jennifer "JJ" Jones, and Kyle Pendleton) as well as the Anson and Schaffer Award Winners, Pete Smithhisler and Steve Veldekamp respectively. The closing banquet finished at 10:05 p.m.

This is my last blog post as the 2009 Annual Meeting has come to a close. I hope it helped to educate, impact, and involve you, and I look forward to seeing you next year in Phoenix December 1-5! I posted the new AFA and Annual Meeting logo above for you to get familiar (you saw it on signs throughout Jax). You are in good hands with the new Annual Meeting Planning Team, led by Andrea Weber, 2010 Annual Meeting Chair, and the AFA Executive Board led by Kelly Jo Karnes.

Goodbye from Jacksonville!

Tuesday, December 8th!

I was negligent in posting yesterday's blog update but only because so much was happening in Jax!
Yesterday we began the day with a provocative and inspiring Closing General Program delivered by Dr. Bernard Franklin, Delta Upsilon International President. We were delighted to receive a sponsorship from Delta Upsilon International Fraternity. This generous gift will pay for the Closing General Program for the next five years.

We then attended a block of educational programs like, "Fraternity/Sorority Leadership Class," "The Clarion Call: Rallying Alumni to Help a Struggling Chapter," and, "Working Together to Become Relevant from Headquarters to Campus Professionals."

We then shared time together at the AFA and AFA Foundation Recognition Luncheon sponsored by ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Center. This was a time to recognize Foundation donors and also congratulate award winners.

Our Exhibit Hall was open for most of the day and our 33 exhibitors greeted friends and clients.

Finally, we spent the afternoon engaged in nine sessions of Fireside Chats, an opportunity for our inter/national organizations and campus professionals to engage in collaborative dialogue about their shared chapters.

The Regional Meetings updated members on Association Business and allowed for colleagues and neighbors to reconnect.

As the usual "Friday" of the Annual Meeting, this year, Tuesday night was the eveninig for organization receptions. Time was spent amongst friends by many.

Today is the last day of the Annual Meeting, but it's full of opportunities: Four blocks of educational programs, the AFA Business Meeting, the Silent Auction ends, and the Closing Banquet allows us to share a final meal together in comraderie while we recognize our prestigious award winners.

More to come!

Monday, December 7th

Today is a great day at the Annual Meeting. Steve Farber woke us up with an exciting and engaging General Program, "Greater Than Yourself." Every attendee got a copy of his newest book, Greater Than Yourself, at the door. Then we began a series of three educational program blocks featuring programs like, "Applying the CAS Standards and Guidelines in Fraternity and Sorority Advising Programs," "Conference Commando," and "Advancing a Relevant and Inclusive Fraternal Movement: A Community Dialogue."

The Developmental Resource Center and Poster Presentation went live as did the AFA Silent Auction. The Exhibit Hall reception boasted over 30 exhibitors, and the Speaker Showcase featured six excellent presenters.

First Timers are gathering in the lobby for a meal......over 100! The Order of Omega 2nd Year Case Study and the First Year Case Study Challenge are still occurring. Stay tuned for the winners. Tonight we will have Project Job Search: Resume Review and Mock Interviews. We will also have the Fireside Chats Meet & Greet.

Sunday, December 6: It Begins!

The Annual Meeting Begins!

A few of our successes from today include:

• Over 800 people checked in to the AFA Annual Meeting today at the Registration desk!
• Four Annual Meeting Advance programs were executed.
• Over 100 letters were written to deployed troops for our Service Project, Project Gratitude.
• 75 graduate students attended the Graduate Training Track.
• Almost 200 people attend the AFA Connection Kickoff for First Timers and were challenged by the First Timers Committee to become a "Conference Commando."
• The Welcome Reception, sponsored by Campuspeak, served as an informal opportunity for friends and colleagues to reconnect.

And we are ready for tomorrow! We'll post more about it then.

Good night from Jacksonville!

Welcome to Jax!

As promised, this post is from Jacksonville. The first team is in the hotel and preparing for your arrival. Stories on the news abound about snow in places like Texas and Louisiana. It's not snowing here! It was 70 degrees when I landed yesterday at 4:30 p.m.

Saturday|57°|AM Rain
Sunday|64°|Cloudy
Monday|71°| Few Showers
Tuesday|73°|Showers
Wednesday|79°|Scattered Thunderstorms
Thursday|61°|Partly Cloudy

The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is.....on the river as you would assume. Here is a picture of the scene from the hotel.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

(*The river is the St. John's River for those who are curious, and here is another fun fact about the St. John's River: Several rivers have a more northerly flow. Perhaps the most famous river that flows north is the Nile in Egypt.

In Florida, some rivers that flow in a northerly direction include tributaries of the St. Johns: the Ocklawaha River, which begins in a marsh north of Leesburg in Lake County, and the Wekiva River, which begins where the runs from Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs meet north of Apopka (which is north of Orlando). The Withlacoochee River flows north from central Florida's Green Swamp to the Gulf of Mexico west of Ocala. (There is another river in Florida named Withlacoochee that flows south from Georgia and joins the Suwannee at Suwannee River State Park west of Live Oak.) ).

Are Your Bags Packed?

The Annual Meeting begins in four days. I fly to Jacksonville tomorrow morning, and the Central Office staff arrives today. Hopefully many of you, the almost 1,000 registrants, are preparing for the Annual Meeting. Amidst the packing (for warmer weather) and cramming some Silent Auction items in your suitcase, I hope you take a few moments to intentionally think about the professional development experience that awaits you.

Dan Wrona of RISE Partnerships prepared some suggestions for Annual Meeting attendees, and since I think they are spot on, I am listing the exact document here.

Another thought I will share with you comes from the blog of Jeffrey Cufade, called Idea Architects. One blogger can share with another, right? He simply asks this question: "I could achieve better results in my job if I knew how to/was more capable of _____________."

Think intentionally about that statement and take a minute to review the program book that is in the blog post below this one. You can craft an exceptional professional development experience that will be worth those hard earned professional development dollars.

My next post will be from Jacksonville! And for any AFA members not fortunate enough to attend, I hope to make the blog posts during the Annual Meeting an accurate reflection of the day's events.

It's Here!

No, I am not talking about Black Friday or the best deals on the hottest items this year. I am talking about the 2009 Annual Meeting Program Book, and it's available here.

One of my goals this year was to provide this book for attendees in advance so that you have time to become familiar with the opportunities that await you in Jacksonville. There is a lot happening at the Annual Meeting! This sneak preview allows you to take some time at your leisure to select educational programs to attend and to familiarize yourself with the schedule.

Like always, attendees will receive a printed copy of the Program Book at Registration.

A Time for Thanks

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I thought it was appropriate to take a moment to thank the team that has been working very hard with me this past year to plan the Annual Meeting. Our gathering in Jacksonville has a lot of people working behind the scenes to allow you to have the best possible experience. While a public shout out is the least I can do, I still want to take a moment to say
THANK YOU:

2009 Annual Meeting Planning Team
2010 Annual Meeting Chair
Andrea Weber, Missouri State University
Educational Programs Coordinator
Jennifer Leung, College of William and Mary
Fireside Chats Coordinator
Michael Steele, Clemson University
First Timers Coordinator
Lauren Moran, Sigma Sigma Sigma
Graduate Staff Coordinator
Eli Ker, Clemson University
Graduate Student Experiences Coordinator
Kimberlee Monteaux, University of Vermont
On-Site Arrangements Coordinator
Patrick Romero-Aldaz, University of South Florida
AFA Central Office
Linda Wardhammar, Executive Director
Jason Pierce, Director of Programs
Sarah McCracken, Director of Member Services

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2009 Annual Meeting Committees
Educational Programs: Dennis Camacho, John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Brandon Cutler, Kansas State University; Leslie Fasone, Indiana University; Sara Jahansouz, University of Tennessee, Chatanooga; Matt Matson, Phired Up Productions; Laurel Peffer, Lafayette College

Fireside Chats: Jennifer Fitzwater, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia; Marlon Gibson, Georgia State University; Tyler Havens, Monmouth University; Ryan Lovell, The Ohio State University; Kaya Miller, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

First Timers: Amy Colvin, Millikin University; Angela King, Middle Tennessee State University; Josh Orendi, Phired Up Productions; Carol Preston, Ohio University; Neil Stanglein, William Woods University; Liz Schafer, Tulane University

Graduate Student Experiences: Krystal Clark, Duke University; Scott Clark, University of Missouri; Susan LeGalley, Pennsylvania State University; Victoria Lopez-Herrera, Columbia University; Darren Pierre, University of San Francisco; Natalie Shaak, Drexel University; Thomas Whitcher, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Graduate Staff: Lauren Berman, University of Louisville; Susan DuMont, University of Delaware; Matt Knickman, University of Central Missouri; Wes McCormack, Texas A & M University; Josh McKenzie, University of South Carolina; Mary Phillips, Bowling Green State University; Maritza Torres, University of Florida; Allen White, University of South Florida

On-Site Arrangements: Dan Kennedy, Barton College; Jessie James-Stinson, University of Northern Iowa; Jennifer Jones, Valdosta State University; Michelle Marchand Rebholz, Lehigh University; Marlena Martinez, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Kari Murphy, University of Missouri, Kansas City

My best wishes for you and yours to have a Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you enjoy the extra few days after the holiday this year before you travel to Jacksonville.

Got Seasoning?

Seasoned Professionals:
Our Piece of the Fraternal Puzzle
Sponsored by Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity and Foundation

Wednesday | 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday | 2:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

The Annual Meeting Planning Team continually strives to support our members at all levels of experience. We discovered that our seasoned professionals would benefit from more intentional programming aimed at their level of experience, and thus, with a kind sponsorship from an interfraternal partner, Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity and Foundation, this program was born.

This double session for Seasoned Professionals (those with 7+ years professional experience working with fraternities and sororities) will challenge participants to contemplate the future of the fraternal movement within higher education and the roles that seasoned professionals can play. The first part of this program will expose participants to the thoughts and perspectives of senior student affairs officers through a panel discussion, moderated by Dr. David Grady of the University of Iowa. In the second session, Ginny Carroll will facilitate meaningful conversation around current and potential best practices, hoping to inspire and sustain participants in their roles as seasoned professionals. Participation in the Annual Meeting Educational Program will allow our seasoned professionals the opportunity to engage with others who have committed their careers to the advancement of the fraternal movement.

Calling All Presenters!

As you prepare for presenting educational programs at AFA, take a look at some words of advice and encouragement from leading presenters in the field of Fraternity and Sorority Life.

“A successful presentation in my opinion is one that challenges participants to think critically about the topic, provides clear guidance on how to apply the knowledge gained, and ends with participants feeling that session was about what it was marketed as.”
~Kim Novak

“Practice. Know YOUR stuff, understand the RESEARCH or PRACTICAL implications, be able to talk about it in a way that engages people, but don't sacrifice content for entertainment. I would much rather sit through something a little more "dry" or less "interactive" than be doing team builders for an hour. I want to LEARN.”
~Dan Bureau

“Actually prepare. Too many in our field prep the week before...or on-site...and it shows. Don’t waste my time or the others in the workshop.”
~Mike McRee

“As a presenter, make sure the topic is something you feel comfortable with and have credibility in this area. Be very deliberate on what points you want to get across and what you want participants to leave with.
I never (ever) think of myself as a speaker. I am facilitator who can engage hundreds of people in a conversation. As the presenter, think of yourself in that light. You are there to facilitate the conversation.”
~Lori Hart Ebert

“Although it is quite the old saying, I believe being you is the most important part of delivering a good program. If you are passionate about the topic and if that shines through that is ok. What one should never do is not be open to differences of opinions. In fact, if there are people at your program that don't agree with your perspective on the topic asking them how and/or why they disagree is a great way to engage the participant and enhance the level of discourse among the participants.”
~Monica Miranda Smalls

For more tips from our experts, click here.

Operation Gratitude @ the Annual Meeting

This year the Annual Meeting Planning Team worked diligently to provide a service opportunity to our members in Jacksonville. In 2006, many members gave back to our host city of New Orleans to help the rebuilding efforts there post Hurricane Katrina. In 2008, we invited members to join us at Project Angel Heart in Denver.

While I certainly do value the service opportunities in the streets of our host cities, I want to make the opportunity available to as many people as possible. This was challenging to do if extra fees, early arrival, etc. were involved. Thus, an idea was born to have the service event occur in the hotel so everyone who chooses can participate.

We are pleased to announce that this year's onsite service project is Operation Gratitude. Operation Gratitude provides care packages and letters to service men and women who are currently deployed. We will be hosting a letter writing campaign between 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 6, 2009. Please join us for a few minutes to stop in and write a letter. If you would like to write a letter beforehand you may drop it off in Jacksonville. You may also consider asking your students to write letters beforehand. Jacksonville has a strong military presence so we are proud to give back to our host city in this way.

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Dan Kennedy, Onsite Arrangements committee member, is spearheading this service opportunity and may be contacted for more information.

That's Right,......We're T - 28 Days!

It's true. The Annual Meeting will "open" in 28 days as the counter at the bottom of this blog predicts. My apologies for the small lapse in blog posting. As you can imagine, many things are happening behind the scenes to make this an enjoyable and stimulating professional development experience for you. One of the most exciting things we are working on is the Program Book. It is my hope to be able to provide it for you (online) at least one week in advance for those "planners" out there. Every attendee will receive a Program Book once they register in Jacksonville. The Program Book provides pertinent information including the educational program descriptions.

Here are a few things we are finalizing that may be of interest to you:

• An onsite guide to give you more information about the surrounding area (There is a Starbucks near for those who require it. I'll see you there).
• A two-part educational program for Seasoned Professionals to attend.
• A service opportunity that will take place in the hotel on Sunday. Stop by when you have time.
• Two excellent General Programs: Steve Farber and Bernard Franklin, PhD.
  
• A Project Job Search: Employment Exchange opportunity that will be passive. We will post any job descriptions we are given and we will provide, "I'm Hiring," buttons to those who have positions available.
• An exciting and informational AFA Connection Kickoff for our first timers, who are actually about 1/3 of the attendees.
• Exciting opportunities for our graduate members in the form of a Graduate Training Track, Project Job Search: Resume Review and Mock Interview opportunity; and a case study opportunity for first and second year graduate students.
• Annual Meeting Ambassadors, members who have signed up to give the Annual Meeting Planning Team a hand onsite, will be given further details.
• Fireside Chats: The deadline was Friday. Now the bid matching process will begin.
• Graduate Staff members are being trained.
• Associate members have signed up for the Exhibit Hall and are preparing for their booth.
• Speaker Showcase presenters are finalizing their presentations.
• AFA Foundation Silent Auction materials are still being accepted.
• The Developmental Resource Center Posters are being reviewed.
• The Developmental Resource Center is still collecting materials from members.
  
• Annual Meeting Advance Programs (formerly Pre-Conference) are being prepared.

And, hopefully, you have registered (or will do so soon), and are preparing yourself for our Annual Meeting.

For more details on anything mentioned above, click here.

On behalf of the Annual Meeting Planning Team, we are excited, we are ready to execute, and we are looking forward to seeing you in Jax!

DRC Needs Your Help!

The Developmental Resource Center (DRC) is a tool we provide at the Annual Meeting to allow colleagues to share ideas and best practices with each other. Examples include:

• Recruitment Manuals
• Emerging Leaders Retreat Curriculum
• Officer Transition Programs
• Council Constitutions
• Housing Leases/Contracts
• Award Applications
• End of Year Report Processes
• Parent's Brochures
• Hazing Prevention Resources/Publications
• H1N1 Education Drives
• Risk Management Trainings
• Sample New Member Programs
• Peer Train-the-Trainer Programs
• Accreditation Processes
  

We would like to receive more materials for the 2009 Annual Meeting. Submitted materials will be sorted by Core Competency and on display for the duration of the Annual Meeting. After the Annual Meeting, materials will be posted on the AFA website. We are asking for one electronic copy in advance. Then bring one (or more) hard copies with you to the Annual Meeting. We can provide a mailing address if you have a large amount of resources.

Please contact Michelle Marchand Rebholz, Onsite Arrangements Committee member, with questions.

Participate in This Survey to Make Fraternity/Sorority Life Tremendous

Matt Mattson of Phired Up Productions is partnering with Brandon Cutler, Assistant Director of Greek Affairs at Kansas State University to deliver an educational program at the 2009 AFA Annual Meeting. They need your input! Please take the Fraternity/Sorority Extremes Survey by clicking here. Please complete this survey by November 30, 2009, and forward it on to student leaders, campus faculty/staff, and Inter/National Headquarters Staff/Volunteers so that Matt and Brandon can share the best ideas with our workshop audience. We’ll give you credit or keep your ideas anonymous. We appreciate your assistance, and can’t wait to see the results.

This survey is about more than helping Matt and Brandon prepare for a workshop they'll be delivering. Your ideas will help shape the future of the fraternity/sorority movement in the minds of the people charged with leading the movement. Are you willing to challenge the fraternal movement with your wildest ideas?

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Here's the description of the workshop Matt and Brandon are working on...

Let’s take a moment to imagine the possibilities for fraternity and sorority communities if we as leaders commit to achieving extremes. Let’s gather together the best of us who are willing to bravely answer this question; “With all of the people, energy, and resources in the fraternal world, what SHOULD we be achieving?” Let’s not just talk in adjectives like “congruent,” “relevant,” and “values-driven;” let’s imagine and celebrate specific examples of truly being those things. Imagine a future where revolutionary, exceptional, and phenomenal chapters and communities are minimum expectations. Participants will be challenged to dream beyond convention, and begin their journey as a revolutionary fraternity and sorority professional.

You Don't Know Jax......

A colleague in the field inspired me with that catchy slogan, and I realized you may, in fact, not know much about our host city, Jacksonville, Florida. Let me share a few tidbits with you here. All facts are according to Wikipedia. We will post our local guide on the AFA website within the next few weeks:

JAX

• Is in Duval County.
• Is the largest city in Florida.
• Many surrounding areas combine to make the Greater Jacksonville Metropolitan Area. The population is 1,313,228. Jacksonville is the largest of all the cities that make up the Area.
• In 1968, it became the largest city (land wise) in the contiguous United States.
• The city is centered around the banks of the St. John's River.
• In December, the average high is 66F, and the average low is 47F.
• It has the largest urban park system in the United States with 337 locations and 80,000 acres.
• There are two fully enclosed shopping malls.
  
• The professional football team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, lives here.
• The Florida Times-Union is the most popular newspaper.
• The Gate River Run has taken place here since 1977. It is the U.S. National Championship 15K. About 13,000 recreational runners participate every March.
• It is home to three military facilities: Naval Submarine Base King's Bay, Naval Air Station Jacksonville, and Naval Station Mayport. The USS Jacksonville is the only US Navy ship named for the city. Its port is Norfolk, Virginia.
  
• There are eleven institutions of higher education here: Jacksonville University, University of North Florida, Florida State College at Jacksonville, Edward Waters College, The Art Institute of Jacksonville, Florida Coastal School of Law, Trinity Baptist College, Jones College, Webster University, Strayer University, and Florida Technical College.
• John Delaney is the President of the University of North Florida. He was the Mayor of Jacksonville until July 2003 when he became the University president. He is a proud member of Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and was invited to speak with us at our Annual Meeting, but unfortunately another conference will take him to Atlanta during our time in his city.
• I would be remiss if I did not mention that my six-year-old nephew's name is Jackson.

Click here for a full description.

I look forward to seeing you soon in Jax!

One Week To Register!

Remember that to receive the regular registration rate, you must register for the Annual Meeting on or by October 30, 2009 (this includes a postmark of October 30th for any mailed materials, checks, etc). Click here to register. After October 30th, the price increases 25%.

Time for Wellness in Jacksonville?

EXERCISE.
It might be your favorite New Year's resolution, the thing you dread the most, the best moments of your life, or the one experience that makes your body hurt from your head to your toes. Exercise should be a part of any person's daily routine. It increases your life span, keeps your heart healthy, helps you stay at a healthy body mass index, and enhances your mood. Exercise should not, however, be an intimidating word. You can burn calories just by walking 10 minutes a day, riding a bike around your neighborhood, cleaning your house, laughing really hard, or I suppose, chasing after run away fraternity and sorority members.

In all seriousness, I know we all have busy lives and exercise is often the first thing to go. Pilates is an exercise that I am particularly drawn to. It is a rehabilitative mix of yoga, ballet, bar, and core work. It focuses on flexibility, precision, strength, and mind/ body connection through muscle control. It has been touted as a best practice in exercise for some of the world’s best athletes, the elderly, persons surviving physical trauma, dancers, and CEO’s…And now Pilates is coming to YOU! During this year’s Annual Meeting I will be leading morning fitness regimes. Our commitment to care for your physical wellness is conceptualized in the fact that we are offering two Pilates classes and one walking trip this year.

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Here are a few things you need to know:
1. Pilates and walking trips are for ALL fitness levels, all ages, and all genders
2. You should bring:
A blanket, towel, or mat.
Clothes in which you are comfortable working out
Tennis shoes
3. Email me with questions, comments, and/or concerns?

I look forward to seeing you in class!
Fraternally,
Colleen Coffey

NOTE: Wellness opportunities will occur Monday and Wednesday at 6:45 a.m. (Pilates) and Tuesday at 6:45 a.m. (Walking). See the Program Book once you arrive for exact locations.

Scholarship Available for Advance Program

Thanks to a sponsorship from the Fraternity Executives Association, registration scholarships are available for this Annual Meeting Advance (formerly pre-conference) program for up to 25 campus-based professionals and up to 25 organization-based, director level professionals to register, based on receipt of the registration form and payment. Questions regarding the scholarship should be directed to Jeremy Slivinski.

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Fraternity TARP...Our Bailout in the Bad Economy
Sponsored by the Fraternity Executives Association
1:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. | $60*

Presenters:
Jeremy Slivinski, Fraternity of Alpha Kappa Lambda
Libby Anderson, Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity

Headquarters and institutions of higher education are not immune to a weak economy. This session will explore historical data/wisdom of our environments during a recession broken down into four areas that are relevant to the campus professional and the inter/national organizaton professional. These areas are membership, fundraising (scholarships/grants), housing, and budgets. Each area will explore the trends that could occur, outcomes of those trends as well as best practices and resources that can help you and your students/staff weather the economic storm.

This program is intended for the both the new professional and the seasoned veteran. The expected outcome is for a better understanding of the changing dynamics both on campus and at the national headquarters. Participants should walk away with creative ideas on how to survive some of the economic changes. The program will be moderated by Jeremy Slivinski and Libby Anderson, both Fraternity Headquarters professionals that have also worked on campus in Greek Life. Other presenters specific to the areas of discussion will also participate either in the session or live via virtual meeting technology.

Project Job Search

Resume Reviews and Mock Interviews

Monday, December 7 | 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Project Job Search gives graduate students a competitive advantage in the process of finding the perfect job after graduation. Graduate students can participate in mock interviews and have their résumés reviewed to gain vital experience in presenting themselves to potential employers.

• Mock interviews will recreate the NASPA/ACPA placement exchange, so participants can experience interviewing in this setting before attending these conferences in the spring.
• Fraternity/sorority professionals will review participants’ résumés and provide feedback to help them make their written materials more appealing to potential employers.

Register for Résumé Review and Mock Interview here.

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Employment Exchange
Institutions and organizations with current or anticipated job openings will provide information to potential candidates. There is no fee to participate as a potential employer. Employment opportunities will be organized by AFA Regions so job seekers will be able to target specific geographic areas if they wish.

Want to participate? Click here to complete the form!

Question about Project Job Search may be directed to Scott Clark.
(Please note: Institutions with open positions will also be able to receive an "I'm Hiring" button to wear during the Annual Meeting).

Speaker Showcase Announced

Speaker Showcase
Monday | 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Take the guess work out of selecting speakers for campus and organization events. The Speaker Showcase provides the opportunity for Annual Meeting attendees to listen to and learn about speakers available for campus or inter/national programs. Highlighting some of AFA's Associate members, the Showcase allows meeting attendees to hear a sample of signature programs from educational speakers touring the college circuit today. The speakers being showcased are:

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• Jason Regier | Getting Back Into the Game | CAMPUSPEAK
• Lori Hanson | Ode to Stress: How to Survive and Thrive in College | Learn 2 Balance
• Joshua Fredenburg | Are You a Greek Leader Prepared to Impact the World | Vision XY
• Colleen Coffey | Out of the Shadows | CAMPUSPEAK
• Michael Gershe | The Magic of Life | GG GregAgency
• Erin Weed | Greeks Fight Back | Erin Weed & Co.
• Kevin Snyder | Be Greek…Be Proud | CAMPUSPEAK

Welcome Graduate Staff '09

Lauren Berman
Alpha Gamma Delta | University of Louisville
Susan DuMont
Alpha Phi | University of Delaware
Matt Knickman
Lambda Chi Alpha | University of Central Missouri
Wes McCormack
Phi Kappa Chi | Texas A & M University
Josh McKenzie
Sigma Nu | University of South Carolina
Mary Phillips
Sigma Kappa | Bowling Green State University
Maritza Torres
Alpha Psi Lambda | University of Florida
Allen White
Iota Phi Theta | University of South Florida

Fireside Chats | Schedule Now

Fireside Chats are a time honored tradition at the Annual Meeting. Sadly, we don't sit around a bonfire and roast marshmallows, but we do provide an atmosphere meant to engage inter/national organizations and campus professionals in discussions about their shared chapters.

There are many topics that may be covered during a Fireside Chat, from checking in on a new colony to recruiting more alumni for a chapter to talking through risk management issues. Fireside Chats are meant to be a face-to-face interaction that follows up conversations that have begun with consultants, phone calls, emails, etc.

Fireside Chats are 20 minutes in length and each inter/national organization and campus will have the opportunity for a maximum of nine scheduled Fireside Chats (per table for inter/national organizations). Similarly, we offer the Fireside Chat Meet and Greet as an opportunity to informally network with and meet representatives from inter/national organizations. This does not allow for in depth conversation but rather a hello.

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The deadline to register for Fireside Chats is November 6, 2009, for both campuses and inter/national organizations. Go here to register.

Fireside Chats Meet and Greet
Monday | December 7
8:00 - 9:15 p.m.

Fireside Chats
Tuesday | December 8
1:45 - 5:30 p.m.
Sponsored by FIPG

You're Invited | Exhibit Hall 2009

Ever wonder who is behind that voice when you call ICS at 2:00 in the morning? Want to know more about Greek Yearbook? Need a speaker who can challenge your students to think outside of the box? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you NEED to stop by the 2009 Exhibit Hall at the Annual Meeting.

If you have never taken the opportunity to stop by the Exhibit Hall or even if you are an annual browser, I would encourage you not to miss out on this event. Taking a stroll through is an excellent way to give back to all of the vendors and partners who support the fraternity and sorority advising profession and who serve as resources for all of us.

Exhibit Hall Reception
Monday | December 7
4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall
Tuesday | December 8
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
1:45 - 5:00 p.m.

Speaker Showcase Application Deadline Extended

The new deadline is this Friday, September 25, 2009. Go here for to apply.

Please note that Speaker Showcase applicants DO NOT need to exhibit at the Annual Meeting. If selected, they will only need to register for the Annual Meeting at either the Associate member (if they are an Associate member) or non-member rate.

Please contact Marlena Martinez with questions.

Additional Annual Meeting Advance Program Announced

RESPONSE ABILITY: Level 1 Facilitator Certification
12 noon - 4 p.m. | $75*
Sunday, December 6

(The additional cost of $15 covers the cost of the expanded Facilitator’s Guide and Certification Certificate)

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Presenter:
Mike Dilbeck, Creator & Producer of the “Response Ability” Project and CAMPUSPEAK speaker

Supported by:
Jesse Lyons, Kappa Alpha Order
Kate Planow, Longwood University

RESPONSE ABILITY, the groundbreaking program on bystander behavior and intervention, gives students the courage to stand up to bad behavior, promote dialogue and work together to create a healthy college climate for all. This program is currently being used by 35 NIC/NPC organizations and nearly 100 campuses across the country. It has received the 2009 Laurel Wreath Award (NIC), 2009 Willis HRH Fellow Award (FEA), and the Telly Award (national).

Most of the problems in the fraternity/sorority community involve bystanders - those who see or know about something “wrong” and do nothing, say nothing. The facilitator, through this program, gets to empower the 95% of our students who are not causing the problems but who are also not standing up to the 5% who are.

RESPONSE ABILITY is one of the most talked-about, powerful, and empowering educational programs currently being used on the college campus. However, it’s real success and effectiveness now rests on the facilitator. We must now train and develop powerful facilitators to lead the program and generate conversations that will leave each and every student empowered to turn “wrong” or even threatening situations into opportunities for action.

This is a Level I Certification Program and each person who completes this program will be considered a Certified Level I Facilitator of the Program and will receive an expanded facilitator’s guide and certificate. Level I is the basic level and certifies someone to thoroughly facilitate the program to individual chapters, or a group of chapters, on their campus. A list of certified facilitators will be kept for possible future opportunities as the program grows and Level II certification will be made available in the near future. For more information on the project, click here.

(Note: This certification does not certify someone in being an “expert” in bystander behavior and intervention. It only certifies them to facilitate the RESPONSE ABILITY educational program).

Graduate Training Track: Reserve Space Now!

The Graduate Training Track is funded by a grant to the AFA Foundation from Rho Lambda National Honorary.

This year's Graduate Training Track (GTT) will incorporate the Annual Meeting theme: Educate, Impact, and Involve. GTT will open up with words of welcome from the members of the leadership within the Association and lead into an opening session focusing on the concept: Educate.

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EDUCATE
How is our work impacted by the idea of Caring for Our Community? This statement will be one of the main focuses of the opening session of the program. Participants will have the opportunity to identify strategies for building community within AFA and beyond as a new professional.

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IMPACT
The GTT will host a informative panel of experts who will focus on educating participants on the national umbrella organizations and other constituency groups with whom fraternity/sorority life professionals work. Participants will be introduced to basic guidelines, resources and trainings offered by national umbrella organizations or constituency groups.

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INVOLVE
GTT will close by looking at ways to be involved within the Association and taking advantage of all the opportunities that the Annual Meeting has to offer. This year, the Graduate Training Track will feature a new Capstone experience for attendees on the last day of the Annual Meeting during regularly scheduled educational programming to help members synthesize their experience at the Annual Meeting and in the GTT.

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With the theme Educate, Impact, Involve we are sure to have an experience for graduate students that is not only informative, but also engaging. For more information about Graduate Training Track, click here. You register for the Graduate Training Track on the form you use to register to attend the Annual Meeting. There is a nominal cost ($15.00) to participate and includes the programming mentioned as well as a take home resource.

Post created by Darren Pierre, Graduate Student Experience Committee Member

NEW: Annual Meeting Poster Presentation

The Annual Meeting Planning Team is excited to unveil a new component to the 2009 Developmental Resource Center (DRC) at the Annual Meeting. AFA members are invited to offer campus and inter/national organization programs and initiatives via a Poster Presentation. The 20x30 posters will be displayed throughout the Annual Meeting space and allow attendees the opportunity to view a combination of text, graphics, and other elements of a program or initiative such as a program agenda, an assessment tool, learning outcomes, curriculum, and photos from the event. The programs submitted should be considered a “Best Practice.” It is also expected that the initiative featured was successfully implemented for a measurable period of time. Poster Presentations will be grouped according to AFA's Core Competencies for Excellence in the Profession, and the program description should indicate how the program aligns with a specific Core Competency.

An example poster presentation:

Title: Coffee and Conversation
Core Competency: Collaborator

Description of poster/program: The Coffee and Conversation program series at Alpha Beta University was designed with campus faculty/staff advisors in mind. Meeting monthly for one hour in the afternoon, faculty and staff are invited to explore topical areas related to advising fraternities and sororities and balancing their role as a campus professional. Sessions included: “Advising 101: Understanding the role of a faculty/staff advisor”, “Book Clubs, Dinner Dashes, & More: Innovative approaches to working with your chapter”, and “Assumption of Risk: Navigating the social policies of fraternities and sororities”. This program series has been in existence for three years and we consider it a “Best Practice” for the way in which it meets our faculty/staff advisors where they are. This program aligns with the AFA Core Competency of “Collaborator” by continually strengthening the partnerships our office has with our faculty/staff advisors.

Materials we will include on the poster: Year-long program agenda with session topics, pre- and post- assessments, detailed curriculum for one of the hour-long sessions, learning outcomes, and survey data from the past two year’s faculty/staff participants.

To submit, click here.

Please submit all information electronically with supporting materials. This application and all supporting documents must be received by Friday, October 30, 2009.

The selection committee will be reviewing applications using AFA's Core Competencies for Excellence in the Profession as a guide in making final decisions. Presentations selected will be notified by Friday, November 13, 2009.

If selected, you will be expected to bring to the Annual Meeting any material that is to be displayed on the poster board. AFA will provide one (1) white foam-core board (20” X 30”) and spray glue for each presenter to build the poster board on-site. Any questions should be directed to Michelle Marchand Rebholz.

Annual Meeting Advance Programs Announced (formerly Pre-Conference programs)

The Annual Meeting Planning Team is excited to announce the following five Annual Meeting Advance (formerly Pre-Conference) programs that will occur Sunday, December 6, 2009. You may register for an Annual Meeting Advance Program when you register for the Annual Meeting here.

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Caring for your Big Community
1:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. | $60

Presenters:
Amy Vojta, Rutgers University
JoAnn Arnholt, Rutgers University
Kyle Pendleton, Purdue University
Travis Apgar, Cornell University

Is your fraternal community getting bigger while your staff, your budget and the time you devote to individual chapters is getting smaller? Campus Advisors with 40 chapters or more are invited to spend the afternoon with colleagues from similar-sized communities to talk about specific challenges and solutions related to resource allocation, increasing staff effectiveness, improving communication and programming. Join us as we share resources and ideas. Bigger CAN BE Better!

Opportunities that this Annual Meeting Advance program provides participants:

This specific affinity group within the Association will be able to meet and share ideas/concerns, thus providing a forum that doesn't already exist.
Advisors from these campuses will have a better idea of "best practices" in working with large communities.
Advisors from groups on the cusp of having a "large community" can better prepare (in terms of staffing, resource allocation, etc.) for their anticipated growth.

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Creating a Community of Care: Reframing Risk Management Dialogues
1:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. | $60

Presenters:
Kim Novak, Student Risk Management Specialist
Nick Zuniga, Texas A&M University

The primary barrier to engaging students in risk management is the way educators have approached the discussion. Rules, policies, and a litany of “thou shalt nots” remain the focus of many risk management programs and resources. Even though we understand that student learning occurs best through experiential and collaborative efforts, we have not shifted away from the language that originally shaped the risk management discussion. In order to reconceptualize risk management we must take the fraternal community beyond policies and compliance and into the shades of gray presented by ethics, values congruence, responsibility to self and others, and critical thinking.

As a result of participating in this program, participants will:

Be able to identify the barriers that preclude successfully engaging students in risk management efforts
Be able to articulate the importance of risk management in their own professional voice
Be able to connect fraternal values with risk management efforts
understand student development focused processes for use when evaluating student organization and
institutional risk
Learn ways to apply proactive risk management concepts to minimize risks while allowing students to
Explore new and innovative programs while maintaining traditional campus events

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Fraternity TARP...Our Bailout in the Bad Economy
Sponsored by the Fraternity Executives Association
1:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. | $60*

Presenters:
Jeremy Slivinski, Fraternity of Alpha Kappa Lambda
Libby Anderson, Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity

Headquarters and institutions of higher education are not immune to a weak economy. This session will explore historical data/wisdom of our environments during a recession broken down into four areas that are relevant to the campus professional and the inter/national organizaton professional. These areas are membership, fundraising (scholarships/grants), housing, and budgets. Each area will explore the trends that could occur, outcomes of those trends as well as best practices and resources that can help you and your students/staff weather the economic storm.

This program is intended for the both the new professional and the seasoned veteran. The expected outcome is for a better understanding of the changing dynamics both on campus and at the national headquarters. Participants should walk away with creative ideas on how to survive some of the economic changes. The program will be moderated by Jeremy Slivinski and Libby Anderson, both Fraternity Headquarters professionals that have also worked on campus in Greek Life. Other presenters specific to the areas of discussion will also participate either in the session or live via virtual meeting technology.

* Thanks to a sponsorship from the Fraternity Executives Association, registration scholarships are available for this pre-conference program for up to 25 campus-based professionals and up to 25 organization-based, director level professionals to register, based on receipt of the registration form and payment. Questions regarding the scholarship should be directed to Jeremy Slivinski at exdir@akl.org.

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QPR Gatekeeper Training for Suicide Prevention
1:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. | $75
**The additional cost of $15 covers the cost of materials to become a trained Gatekeeper

Presenters:
Trapper Pace, University of Texas – Dallas
Dr. Amy Ayres, University of North Texas

The second leading cause of death for college students is suicide. Going to college can be a difficult transition period in which students feel isolated, lonely, confused and stressed. Students find acceptance within our fraternity and sorority communities, but are still often plagued with untreated depression which is the number one cause for suicide. Have you ever suspected someone to be suicidal, but didn’t know what to do or say? QPR Gatekeeper Training is intended to teach those who are in a position to recognize the warning signs, clues and suicidal communications of people in trouble to act effectively to prevent a possible tragedy. This training is meant to be a means of offering hope through positive action.

Through an interactive format, participants will learn how to utilize the QPR method along with gaining knowledge and skills in recognition and referral of at risk persons. This session covers suicidal communications, history of suicide prevention and how it can affect our fraternity and sorority communities, correct usage of terminology, role-plays, and how to ask the question.

From a Facebook status to one on one personal interaction, students in our communities often display many warning signs that go either undetected or are not addressed due to awkwardness in approaching the subject matter. However, active participation in this session and becoming a Gatekeeper will allow the participant the tools necessary to help save a life. On average, every 2 hours and 5 minutes, a college-aged person completes suicide…will you spend the time to save a life?

As a result of participation in this Annual Meeting Advance program, participants will:

Recognize someone at risk for suicide.
Demonstrate increased knowledge of intervention skills.
Describe knowledge of referral resources and how to refer someone to help.
Become certified Gatekeepers in suicide prevention.
Know background facts about suicide to dispel myths and misconceptions.

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Social Justice: When Diversity Isn't Enough
1:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. | $60

Presenters:
Jessica Pettitt, CAMPUSPEAK
Eddie Banks-Crosson, Syracuse University

As words like diversity, multiculturalism, acceptance, and tolerance fade in popularity, it is imperative that we work collaboratively to support “just societies.” Fraternity/Sorority Advisors and student leaders are often caught in the cross hairs of not knowing what “the right thing to do” is and having to hold someone accountable for difficult and complex situations. Folks just starting out or still asking questions can use this space to recognize where they are coming from and how to be a social justice advocate. Participants will be able to take away personal reflections, training activities, and applicable action steps leading to a more socially just climate.

As a result of participation in this Annual Meeting Advance Program, participants will:

Recognize and challenge three stereotypes or assumptions they hold about others.
Understand and evaluate three stereotypes about gender that are supported by US culture.
Understand how pre-existing assumptions affect an individual’s abilities to recognize and value diversity.
Recognize and give examples of difference in both a singular and plural context.

Annual Meeting Registration Is Live!

The 2009 Annual Meeting Registration information is live. Click here to visit registration.

In order to support our sustainability efforts, there is not a registration "book" this year but rather a link to every piece of information you will need to plan your Annual Meeting experience. (Please note: There will still be a Program Book at the Annual Meeting as usual). Additionally, the live registration form is also available to secure your attendance at the Annual Meeting. The "earlybird" deadline for registration is October 30, 2009.

We look forward to seeing you in Jacksonville!

Speaker Showcase Application Available

The Annual Meeting Planning Team welcomes speakers and booking agents to apply for the chance to be showcased at the 2009 Annual Meeting. To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click here. The Speaker Showcase will take place on Monday, December 7 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The Speaker Showcase is scheduled during the Exhibit Hall Reception to maximize attendance. In maintaining our green initiatives, we are asking that you include a brief description and audio-visual materials in electronic format. Materials must be submitted by Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

There is no application fee. Rather upon acceptance of the presentation, you and/or your booking agent must be an AFA Associate member. If chosen, you must register to attend and exhibit (you or your booking agent) at the Annual Meeting as well.

If you have questions regarding the Speaker Showcase, please contact Marlena Martinez, Onsite Arrangements Committee member.

Tuesday General Session Announced

Dr. Bernard Franklin.
We are pleased to announce that the AFA Annual Meeting General Session on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 will feature Dr. Bernard Franklin, International President of Delta Upsilon Fraternity and President of Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley in Kansas City, Missouri.

Dr. Franklin has had a long career in both business and the field of higher education. He served as Executive Director of Kauffman Scholars, a $70 million 20 year initiative funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation of Kansas City. Dr. Franklin serves on the boards of a number of philanthropic organizations including Partnership for Children, City Mission Visionaries, Urban Youth Leadership, and the Higher M-Pact Foundation. At 24, Dr. Franklin was the youngest appointed member of the Kansas State Board of Regents, where he also became the youngest elected Chair of the Board at 28. Dr. Franklin is a graduate of Kansas State University and currently serves as a member of the K-State Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Dr. Franklin will speak at 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2009 to the attendees of the Annual Meeting. Likewise, he will also facilitate an educational program immediately following his General Session. This General Session is funded by a grant to the AFA Foundation from Delta Upsilon International Fraternity.

Educational Program Handouts Available

Did you know that the handouts from the Annual Meeting are posted on the AFA website for members to use as a resource? Click here to view handouts from the 2008 Annual Meeting. This tradition will continue following the 2009 Annual Meeting.

Please note: You must log in as a member to view the handouts.

Wellness Opportunity in Jacksonville

As professionals, we often talk about balance and wellness. Part of Caring for Our Community means that we need to take care of ourselves, too. We are pleased that Colleen Coffey, an Association member who is certified to teach Pilates, will share her talents with us at the Annual Meeting. On Monday and Wednesday at 6:45 a.m., Group Pilates will be offered to anyone who is inclined to participate. On Tuesday at 6:45 a.m. Colleen will lead participants in a walk along the beautiful Riverfront that is parallel to our hotel. There is no need to sign up in advance. The time and location of these opportunities will be published in the Program Book.

For those who may prefer their own individual wellness opportunities, the anticipated nice weather and the location of the hotel will provide access to running or walking paths for your use. As usual, the hotel does have a workout area and a pool.

It's Not Too Late to Help!

ANNUAL MEETING AMBASSADORS.

Are you interested in giving back to the Association? Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at the Annual Meeting? Want to serve in a volunteer role in Jacksonville? If you answered yes to any of these questions, make sure to check out the 2009 Annual Meeting Ambassador volunteer positions.

What is an Annual Meeting Ambassador? This role began in 2008 at the Annual Meeting in Denver and will continue in 2009 under its new name. This position is an on-site volunteer who performs a specific role while at the Annual Meeting. Each Annual Meeting committee has an additional need for help while in Jacksonville. Read about the volunteer job descriptions and apply for the opportunity here.

What will I be doing? Depending on the committee which we will match you to, you might be introducing presenters, reviewing resumes, serving as a Graduate Staff mentor, or judging the Order of Omega case study competition. Being an Annual Meeting Ambassador is a great way to give back to the Association, and I certainly encourage you to fill out a form!

Please note:

• There are 50 volunteer Ambassador positions available so applications are subject to a review process. Priority is given to applications completed by September 4, 2009.
• You must attend and register for the 2009 Annual Meeting in Jacksonville to participate.
• This process is different from the 2010 AFA Volunteer process. You should also complete that form if you would like to be a volunteer for the Association in 2010, including Annual Meeting Planning Team committee member or Coordinator.
• Ambassadors will be notified of their acceptance in October.
• The typical commitment is 3-5 hours during the Annual Meeting. Read the job descriptions for more particulars.

Andrea Weber
Annual Meeting Chair 2010
Incoming Chair 2009

Attending the Annual Meeting for the First Time?

Welcome new members to the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors and/or individuals that are planning to attend the Annual Meeting for the first time in December! We would like to take this opportunity to let you know that there is a special Annual Meeting Committee named the First Timers Committee that is busy planning programs specifically for you to get connected to the Association and to network with colleagues during the Annual Meeting.

Make sure while you are at the Annual Meeting you plan to attend the AFA Connection Kickoff, which is designed purposely for first time attendees to learn more about the Annual Meeting. The AFA Connection is Sunday, December 6, 2009 from 6:00 p.m.– 7:00 p.m. We will also have sponsored meals together to enjoy in Jacksonville; these are open to anyone that would like to join.

Make sure to check your email for updates from the First Timers Committee leading up to the Annual Meeting which will have details regarding programs sponsored by the First Timers Committee.

We look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting in Jacksonville!

Sincerely,

Amy Colvin
First Timers Committee
Annual Meeting Planning Team

Apply for Graduate Staff

GRADUATE STAFF. The Annual Meeting is a great way to get involved as a second year (or in a one year program) Master’s student. Eight students will be selected to serve the Association and help with all aspects of the Annual Meeting. This is a great opportunity for those with high energy, organizational skills, outgoing personalities, and attention to detail. You will get a chance to learn much more about the Association and the Annual Meeting. You will also meet many outstanding professionals!

To learn more and apply click here.

Applications must be in by 11:59pm August 30, 2009. Please make sure to include your resume and three references. We will begin reviewing applications immediately and will make selections by Friday, October 2, 2009.

If you have any questions, feel free to email Eli Ker, Graduate Staff Coordinator.

AFA Foundation Annual Meeting Scholarships

NOW AVAILABLE. If you want to attend the 2009 Annual Meeting but find that your organization or institution is in a difficult financial position to send you to Jacksonville, an Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors Foundation scholarship may be for you! The application deadline is September 2, 2009. This year, the AFA Foundation is pleased to offer a few new scholarships. Click here to learn more.

Top 10 Things You Should Know About the 2009 AFA Annual Meeting

1. REGISTER. Registration will go live in late August. The early deadline for registration is October 30, 2009.

2. GENERAL SESSION. The General Session speaker is Steve Farber, author of such business leadership books as the Radical Leap and Greater than Yourself. Those attending the General Session will receive a copy of Steve's newest book, Greater than Yourself. The General Session is Monday, December 7, 2009 at 8:45 a.m. For more information about the General Session speaker, click here.

3. SCHEDULE. This year's Annual Meeting is unique in that it features a Sunday - Thursday schedule instead of our traditional Wednesday - Sunday. Click here for a complete copy of the Schedule At-a-Glance.

4. FIRESIDE CHATS. In 2009, we are pleased to offer more Fireside Chat opportunities than ever. There will be a maximum of nine time periods available for each campus and each inter/national fraternity/sorority to communicate during twenty minute chats.

5. COMMUNITY SERVICE. We have listened to your feedback regarding the community service opportunity. We are working to identify a service opportunity that will occur in the hotel on Sunday, December 6, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. for attendees. We value service and would like to allow as many attendees as possible to engage in this activity. Look for more information soon.

6. VOLUNTEER. We will once again offer the opportunity for members of the Association to sign up to volunteer at the 2009 Annual Meeting. These volunteers will be called Annual Meeting Ambassadors. Ambassadors perform jobs such as introducing educational programs, helping to direct guests in the hotel, reviewing resumes for Project Job Search, and more. The application and complete job description will be on the website in July and will be due in early September.

7. PRE-CONFERENCE. The Annual Meeting will host pre-conference programs on Sunday, December 6, 2009. Since we have transitioned from using the term AFA Conference to AFA Annual Meeting, we have renamed the pre-conference programs. They will now be called Annual Meeting Advance.

8. THEME. The theme of the 2009 Annual Meeting is: Caring for our Community. Educate, Impact, Involve. The theme and logo appear in the top right corner of the blog. If you click on the logo, it will take you to the Annual Meeting information on the AFA website. This is your resource for the most up-to-date Annual Meeting information.

9. ED PROGRAMS. The Call for Content: Programs and Ideas was live March 5, 2009- May 22, 2009. The Educational Programs committee received over 170 program proposals via this process. All speakers have been notified of the status of their programs at this time.

10. GRAD STAFF. Graduate Staff applications are now available. They are due August 30, 2009, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Graduate Staff is limited to students in the second year of their master's program. If the master's program is only one year, those students are eligible to apply. Click here to apply.