Student-Centered

In this special two-part series of The Student-Centered Podcast , host Zackery Tucker sits down with Mary Margaret DeBow of the University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College to explore how academic advising can move beyond transactional tasks and become a meaningful mentoring relationship. Together, they discuss building trust with students, fostering self-reflection and independent decision-ma...

We continue our conversation with Leanna Payton, Director of Housing and Community Standards at Henderson State University, to discuss how new professionals in Student Affairs can get the most out of conference experiences. From navigating your first conference to building meaningful professional connections, Leanna shares practical advice on preparing with intention, showing up with confidence, a...

In this episode of Student-Centered, we welcome Leanna Payton, Director of Housing and Community Standards at Henderson State University, to discuss how new professionals in Student Affairs can get the most out of conference experiences. From navigating your first conference to building meaningful professional connections, Leanna shares practical advice on preparing with intention, showing up with...

In this episode of Student-Centered , we talk with Stephanie London, Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, about what it means to be a multi-functional professional in student affairs. Stephanie shares how her role spans several programs and functional areas, offering insight into the opportunities and challenges of supporting students across multiple campus initiati...

In this episode of Student-Centered , we talk with Stephanie London, Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith, about what it means to be a multi-functional professional in student affairs. Stephanie shares how her role spans several programs and functional areas, offering insight into the opportunities and challenges of supporting students across multiple campus initiati...

In this episode of the Student-Centered , host Zackery Tucker has a conversation with Ava AI, an artificial intelligence persona, to explore the evolving role of AI in the world of Student Affairs — from everyday strategies that save time and improve decision-making, to deeper questions about ethics, equity, and the human connection that defines education. The episode is a recording of a virtual c...

As a new academic year begins, this special episode of the Student‑Centered Podcast offers encouragement to student affairs professionals preparing for move‑in, orientation, and the return of students to campus. Drawing on research and real stories, host Zackery Tucker highlights the vital role you play in fostering belonging, guiding transitions, and shaping futures. From residence life to advisi...

In this episode, we continue the conversation with two new professionals, Faith Earl and Kendra Erickson, Resident Life Coordinators at the University of Central Arkansas, as they share personal insights and lessons learned from stepping into student affairs leadership for the first time. This conversation is part-two of a two part conversation that was originally recorded in front of an audience...

Recorded in front of an audience at the SWACUHO Arkansas Summer Drive-in, this episode of Student-Centered features an engaging conversation with two new professionals, Faith Earl and Kendra Erickson, Resident Life Coordinators at the University of Central Arkansas, as they share personal insights and lessons learned from stepping into student affairs leadership for the first time. From navigating...

In this episode of Student-Centered, we welcome back Jason Smith, Vice President of Student Affairs at Black River Technical College and adjunct professor of Higher Education Law at Arkansas State University. With over 15 years of experience, Smith is known statewide for his expertise in student rights, FERPA, and creating student-centered systems. Smith shared his insights on thinking differently...

In this episode of Student-Centered , we sit down with Jason Smith, Vice President of Student Affairs at Black River Technical College and adjunct professor of Higher Education Law at Arkansas State University. With over 15 years of experience, Smith is known statewide for his expertise in student rights, FERPA, and creating student-centered systems. Smith shared his insights on thinking different...

As a new academic year begins, this special episode of the Student‑Centered Podcast offers encouragement to student affairs professionals preparing for move‑in, orientation, and the return of students to campus. Drawing on research and real stories, host Zackery Tucker highlights the vital role you play in fostering belonging, guiding transitions, and shaping futures. From residence life to advisi...

In this episode of Student-Centered , we welcome back Dr. Rickey Rogers, Vice Chancellor for Student Services at Southern Arkansas University Tech, for a special two-part conversation that unpacks the difference between seeking “college-ready” students versus designing institutions that are ready for the students they serve. Dr. Rogers opens up about his own college journey, the mentors who helped...

In this episode of Student-Centered , we sit down with Dr. Rickey Rogers, Vice Chancellor for Student Services at Southern Arkansas University Tech, for a special two-part conversation that unpacks the difference between seeking “college-ready” students versus designing institutions that are ready for the students they serve. Dr. Rogers opens up about his own college journey, the mentors who helpe...

In this episode of the Student-Centered Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Robin Williamson, Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Central Arkansas, for a special two-part conversation on Investing in Student Affairs Professionals. Drawing from her 2022 chapter in the NASPA-published book First-generation Professionals in Higher Education: Strategies for the World of Work, Dr. Williams...

In this episode of the Student-Centered Podcast , we welcome Dr. Robin Williamson, Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Central Arkansas, for a special two-part conversation on Investing in Student Affairs Professionals . Drawing from her 2022 chapter in the NASPA-published book First-generation Professionals in Higher Education: Strategies for the World of Work , Dr. Williamson...

In this episode, we explore The Next Act , a compelling collection from NASPA that redefines what it means to build a meaningful career in student affairs. From quiet quitting and shifting institution types to consulting, teaching, and even transitioning beyond higher education, this episode highlights how professionals are embracing purpose-driven change over traditional career longevity. We unpa...

In the inaugural episode of the Student-Centered Podcast , we’re joined by Dr. Nadia Eslinger, Director of the Bear Life Program at the University of Central Arkansas, for a powerful conversation on Supporting First-Generation Student Success . Recorded live in front of an audience at the Critical Conversations Drive-In Conference—co-hosted by NASPA Region IV-West and ArSAA at Northwest Arkansas C...

Student-Centered is the official podcast of the Arkansas Student Affairs Association, dedicated to keeping students at the heart of higher education. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to student affairs, this podcast offers inspiration, strategies, and meaningful conversations. Explore challenges, opportunities, and innovative ideas shaping the student experience, while celebrating the wor...