Greetings! My name is Danielle Molina, and I am currently serving in year two as Member at Large on SACSA's Executive Council. My contributions often take place behind the scenes, working with the organization's bylaws and other operational tasks. However, I do step out into the light as the SACSA with the NASPA Region III conference season approaching to facilitate the Joe Buck Travel Awards process. Supported by the SACSA Foundation, these small grants help support conference travel for new and emerging student affairs colleagues. It is one of my greatest pleasures to help new and emerging colleagues be seen by the organization and to get connected.

I joined the SACSA community in 2013, just after taking my current position as a faculty member (and since, Program Coordinator) for the graduate programs in Student Affairs and Higher Education at Mississippi State University. A colleague tapped me on the shoulder and insisted that SACSA figure into my professional development. Skeptical at first, I decided to give SACSA a try. . . and am I ever glad I did. From the moment I showed up, SACSA leaders saw me and were eager to get to know me. When I returned, they remembered me and actively sought opportunities for me to become more deeply involved. They have supported, encouraged, inspired, and challenged me to become a better leader in student affairs and a better human being, overall. I never asked for it. SACSA gave it freely and willingly. The best part is that SACSA extends this investment to any colleague who walks through its door, from undergraduate leaders just finding their way into student affairs to experienced administrators looking for an authentic professional community to call home.

Today's student affairs landscape is challenging on many levels. Through community, we are innovative, strong, and resilient. I hope that this message, even in a small way, is your tap on the shoulder to join SACSA, scale up your involvement in the association, or to pay it forward. I hope you will join us in Greenville, SC, for the 2026 SACSA with NASPA Region III conference this November. If so, know that you will have at least one cheerleader eager to see you, to know you, and to get you connected!