Brittany Jackson became involved with SACSA in 2013, during her first year of graduate school at the University of Central Arkansas. After hearing from some of her classmates who had attended the previous year about what an incredible experience it was, she decided to participate in the event in Norfolk, VA. SACSA was her first professional conference, and it proved to be a life-changing experience. She recalls being at the Multicultural Fair on a yacht, enjoying food, when she noticed university presidents casually dressed and engaging in conversations. It was in that moment that Brittany realized that what truly mattered wasn't one's position, but the connections and networking opportunities that SACSA provides.

Brittany Jackson's first conference was held in Norfolk, VA, and she fondly recalls being amazed throughout the entire experience. She couldn't believe how impactful it was. Many graduate students from Georgia, Arkansas, Tennessee, and other places attended together. Brittany remembers it as a great experience that sparked her curiosity about the Multicultural Committee and the Career Services Committee, as well as their work. Eager to contribute, she immediately sought out ways to offer her support and become involved in these initiatives. The experience left a lasting impression, setting the foundation for her deep appreciation and love for both the conference and the organization.

Brittany fondly remembers one of her most memorable experiences when she had the chance to serve as co-chair for the Case Study Competition alongside Thomas Bruick. Being part of the event, witnessing the students' excitement, and being involved during her first year in her professional role left a lasting impact. This opportunity gave her a new perspective as she engaged with students, coached them, and provided support. While there were many great moments Brittany recalls, this one stands out as a reminder of why she is passionate about the work she does. The experience came full circle, as it was one of the first times, she was able to give back to the organization and its participants, just as it had given so much to her.

For Brittany, SACSA represents family. 2024 marked the first conference she attended in the past five years, and she was taken back by how much she missed it. She hadn't realized how much she needed the connection and the safe space until she was back in that environment. As life changes—whether it's positions, universities, or other shifts—Brittany didn't realizethe impact SACSA had on her as a professional. She reflects on how it shaped and molded her professional culture, influencing how she carries herself, how she lives, and how she shows up for her students, her department, and her institution. Brittany deeply appreciates and loves the conference, noting that she owes much of her current position and the opportunities she's had to it. The connections she's made span from meeting at the conference to becoming friends on Facebook, to reaching out for job opportunities or networking, and even to celebrating milestones like completing a doctorate. The conference has facilitated numerous professional connections for Brittany that have evolved into personal relationships, ones she will cherish and value for a lifetime.

After a brief hiatus, Brittany finds that the sense of family, community, support, and the freedom to be herself are what keep her coming back to SACSA. The conference provides her with an environment where she can be authentically herself without fear of judgment. For Brittany, SACSA is a genuine safe space that allows her to recharge. Although she is now in enrollment management and no longer in Student Affairs, her supervisor observed a renewed energy in her after an especially challenging 8 months in her new role, where she works independently without a team. Returning from the 2024 SACSA conference, Brittany was revitalized and ready to tackle the next phase of her work, which fuels her desire to come back. Each time, the conference recharges her; she leaves not feeling empty or needing more, but instead feeling prepared to embrace the next chapter and the upcoming cycle of events.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Brittany Jackson for her invaluable contributions to the field and to SACSA. Your service has made a lasting impact, and we are truly thankful for everything you've given to the organization. Thank you.