Greetings SACSA family,

My name is Matt Clifford, and I have the honor and privilege of serving SACSA as your Past President. Coming off the celebration of our 75th conference in Louisville as last year’s SACSA President, this year has been an opportunity to take a big breath! Stepping back from an intensive volunteer role has given me the perspective to see SACSA’s opportunities. SACSA is an organization that thrives on the strength of its volunteers. We must continue to invest in our people to sustain our organization.

I attended my first SACSA in 2006 in Jacksonville, Florida. I was attracted to the energy and intimacy of the environment. It felt like I could connect with the other professionals in the space. What really attracted me to SACSA was that everyone seemed genuinely happy to be together. There was laughter in the hallways, hurried note-taking during sessions, and an effervescence everywhere you went. I wanted to infuse that feeling into my professional life.

Throughout my involvement in SACSA, the people have remained at the core of my experience. SACSA is nothing without the people who continue to give it life, who adjust course while remaining steadfastly committed to our mission, and who create and share knowledge about student affairs across the region. In honor of the people of SACSA, I make two requests.

First, the incredible work at campuses across the region deserves recognition! SACSA Awards are an impactful way to recognize the dedication, leadership, and creativity of our members. Please consider nominating someone whose work exemplifies SACSA’s values and mission. Let’s continue to celebrate the excellence within our community.  Submit your nomination by September 5 using the button below:

Nominate Here! 

And second, the past, current, and future of SACSA depends on individuals who care deeply enough about SACSA to help lead the organization forward. When I met with the 2025 conference team, I often shared that we were creating an experience that would ignite in someone the desire to deepen their involvement in SACSA. As we solicit nominations for the Executive Council, this could be that moment for you.

I encourage you to review the bylaws and nominate a colleague—or yourself—for one of the following positions:

President-Elect

Vice President of Marketing

Vice President of Professional Development

Member-at-Large

You may contact me at past.president@sacsa.org for more information or to submit a nomination.

There is no greater honor in SACSA than serving as your President. As I prepare to step away from this leadership role, I leave knowing that I have received far more than I have given, and for that I am grateful. I want to offer my deepest thanks to President Joy Hartfield, President-Elect Angela Taylor, Executive Director Tony Cawthon, the Executive Council, and all of our members who inspired me in 2006 to kindle a feeling of joy in my professional home.

With gratitude,

Matt Clifford

Past-President