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| 1 Nov 2026 | |
| Written by Christopher Ndiritu | |
| General |
Leadership grows through experience, connection, and the opportunity to be challenged. That spirit is at the heart of the Mid-Managers Institute—and the team preparing to guide its next cohort.
Please join SACSA and NASPA Region III in congratulating Dr. Dirron D. Allen, MMI Director, and Dr. Traevon Cooper and Samantha Dennis, MMI Coordinators.
A signature partnership between SACSA and NASPA Region III, the Mid-Managers Institute (MMI) is a focused professional development experience for mid-level student affairs professionals. Participants learn alongside faculty mentors, guest presenters, and fellow mid-level colleagues to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and deepen their contributions to their institutions and the profession.
From navigating campus dynamics to leading teams and planning for the future, MMI connects the challenges of managing from the middle with practical strategies, shared learning, and relationships that extend beyond the institute.
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs James Madison University
Dr. Allen will provide overall leadership and vision for MMI, working alongside the Coordinators to shape the curriculum, guide participant learning, and cultivate an engaging and impactful experience.
“I am honored to serve as MMI Director and recognize that the Institute’s success is made possible by a talented and dedicated team of program coordinators, host-team members, faculty, and volunteers from NASPA Region III and SACSA. Together, we share a commitment to developing the next generation of higher education leaders.
Our goal is to create a meaningful experience that addresses the challenges facing mid-level managers, strengthens leadership capacity, and fosters lasting professional relationships. I hope every participant leaves MMI with a renewed sense of purpose, a trusted network of colleagues, and the confidence to create positive change within higher education.
Above all, we will recognize participants as experts in their own lived experiences, challenge them to grow personally and professionally, and ensure we have some fun along the way.”
Joining Dr. Allen, Dr. Traevon Cooper and Samantha Dennis will serve as MMI Coordinators. Together, they will help translate that vision into a learning experience that supports professional growth and meaningful connections among participants.
Associate Director of Student Activities Kennesaw State University
Director of the Center for Student Involvement and Inclusion University of West Georgia
Please join us in congratulating the MMI leadership team as they prepare to guide the next cohort toward renewed purpose, lasting connections, and greater confidence to lead.
