Gabe Willis serves as the Associate Vice President and Dean of Student Advocacy at Virginia Commonwealth University. He has been in this role for nearly three years. In his position, he provides broad functional oversight across several areas, including Student Conduct, Academic Integrity, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the Office of Student Advocacy. This office supports students' basic needs such as food security, financial security, and housing security. It includes a robust food pantry and operates as a “one-stop shop” where students can receive support for a wide range of needs. Case managers and student advocates work behind the scenes to address concerns and connect students with appropriate resources.

He also oversees the students-of-concern area, which includes matters such as academic assessment, medical or illness-related absences, deaths, and care team coordination. He also oversees incidents of violence against students and other serious concerns that require careful, behind-the-scenes support. In addition to these functional units, Gabe is responsible for several campus-wide initiatives, particularly policy development related to campus expression, freedom of speech, concealment of identity, and related issues that are especially relevant in Virginia and at VCU.

Gabe's first SACSA (Southern Association for College Student Affairs) conference experience took place in Charlotte. Although he had heard about the conference for years from colleagues, UNC Charlotte marked his first opportunity to attend. He recalls walking into an environment filled with high energy. People were chanting and engaging enthusiastically, and he found himself joining in. While the atmosphere was highly energized, it was not overwhelming; there was just enough activity to keep attendees engaged without feeling lost.

He described the experience as top-notch from start to finish. Attendance was strong across all professional levels, from entry-level to senior leaders, and he particularly appreciated the engagement of entry- and mid-level professionals who were eager to be involved and present in the space. He praised the quality of the content, the knowledge of the presenters, and the hospitality, noting that everything felt well executed and intentional.

His most memorable moment was the opening session. Seeing the energy in the room and observing long-time SACSA members reinforced why so many people remain deeply connected to the organization over time.

When offering advice to first-time attendees, Gabe emphasized that SACSA is an ideal conference for newcomers. He encouraged attendees to network early, not be shy, and seek out others who appear approachable. For introverts, he suggested setting a small, achievable goal, such as talking to one new person each day, collecting one business card, and following up after the conference.

Reflecting on his overall experience, Gabe noted that as a more established professional, conferences like SACSA offer the chance to connect with individuals at all career stages. While he is sometimes surprised to be viewed as a senior leader, he values the opportunity to mentor and advise newer professionals while also reconnecting with mentors and leaders he admires. He left the conference feeling motivated to continue his work, inspired by both emerging professionals and long-standing leaders who remain engaged and supportive of others.

Although he missed the conference the previous year, Gabe expressed enthusiasm for future SACSA gatherings. What keeps him coming back is the energy of the organization and the people within student affairs and higher education who are deeply committed to the field. He emphasized that SACSA's long standing members aredistinctive—not the usual kind, but leaders who genuinely want others to succeed, grow, and stay actively involved in the profession. Those qualities, he said, are what continue to draw him back.

Gabe, thank you for your unwavering commitment, passion, and hard work in service of both the organization and the field.