CSSO Association Student Services Leadership Conference
Call for Proposals

The California Community Colleges’ Chief Student Services Officers Association (CSSO) Annual Spring Student Services Leadership Conference is the association’s key event for student services practitioners. We invite administrators, faculty, staff, and community leaders to submit proposals for presentations, workshops, panel discussions, or poster sessions. The conference focuses on sharing evidence-based practices that align with our theme – “Leading Boldly, Advocating Fiercely.” We especially encourage proposals promoting educational equity, social justice, and initiatives related to the Promise Program and Student Conduct. Submit your proposal today.

All presenters must register for the conference and pay registration fees, travel expenses, and any additional costs associated with their workshops/sessions.  Proposals submission must be received and time stamped by January 3, 2025.

SUBMIT PROPOSAL HERE

PROPOSAL SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Proposals will be evaluated on their relevance to the conference strands, content, quality, applicability, and overall connection to issues affecting the community college and the success of the students related to the conference theme, “Leading Boldly, Advocating Fiercely.” All proposals should clearly state participant outcomes, impact, and actionable outputs. 

Proposals focused on innovative approaches on the following topics will be valued:
1. Developing effective Promise Programs and effective implementation of funding for such programs.
2. Management and implementation of Student Conduct policies


Submission Process


1. Proposals should address one of the 4 conference strands.

2. All proposals should clearly state participant outcomes, impact, and actionable outputs. 

3. Proposals must be submitted via the online submission Form.

4. Presentations are limited to 60 minutes and allow time for Q&A or participant engagement.

5. Proposals submission must be postmarked/time stamped by January 3rd, 2025.

Selection Criteria

1. Proposals focused on innovative approaches and original approaches to student success will be prioritized.
2. Additionally, proposals on the following topics is of particular interest.
a. Developing effective Promise Programs and effective implementation of funding for such programs.

b. Management and implementation of Student Conduct policies and regulations

3. Written notification on the status of your proposal will be emailed to the lead presenter by January 17, 2025.

Program Policies

1. All presenters must register for the conference and pay registration fees, travel expenses, and any additional costs associated with their workshops. CSSO will provide all audio-video equipment.

2. Presenters should be prepared to present to an audience of approximately 50 attendees. Please be prepared to provide sufficient handouts for your session.

3. A list of the conference workshops, presenters, and speakers will be posted to the website.

CONFERENCE STRANDS

STRAND ONE

Strand One : Social Justice in Student Services (Fostering Diversity and Belonging on Campus)

The “Social Justice in Student Services” strand invites proposals focused on fostering insightful discussions and practical strategies to promote social justice in student services. We welcome presenters to explore themes like campus policies, equitable resource access, and initiatives for diversity and inclusion. Proposals should highlight actionable steps and case studies that address challenges faced by marginalized student groups. We also encourage submissions that consider intersectionality and the relationships between various identities and experiences.

Strand Two : Student Well-being and Joy (Student Stories and Successes, Data-Driven Decision-Making for Student Success)

The “Well-Being and Joy” strand focuses on advancing proposals that prioritize the holistic development of students, emphasizing their mental and emotional well-being in higher education. We invite submissions that explore evidence-based practices and innovative initiatives that support positive learning environments. Presenters are encouraged to share strategies for enhancing mental health, fostering inclusion, and creating settings that empower students to thrive academically and personally.

STRAND TWO

STRAND THREE


Strand Three- Leadership and Change Management (Advocacy, Leading with Purpose and Passion)

The “Leadership and Change Management” strand invites proposals that analyze innovative leadership strategies in the evolving context of higher education. We seek presentations on effective leadership, change management frameworks, and practices in student services. Proposals should address the challenges leaders face in fostering innovation, directing organizational change, and improving the student experience. Presenters are encouraged to share insights on building resilient teams, managing change empathetically, and leveraging technology for better service delivery. This strand aims to be a hub for thought leadership, fostering discussions that empower leaders to navigate the complexities of student services in higher education.

Strand Four: Best Practices in student services (Innovation practices and technological advancement in Student Services

The best practices in student services strand invites proposals that showcase exemplary practices and innovations in supporting students. We seek presentations highlighting effective programs and interventions that positively impact student engagement and success. Proposals should emphasize evidence-based approaches and share practical insights, addressing challenges in the community college context. Whether focused on technological advancements in students services, career services, or student engagement; this strand aims to foster a collaborative space for learning from successful models and discussing replicable strategies. Presenters are encouraged to share their expertise to enhance the overall student experience in community colleges.



STRAND FOUR