2027 Conference Committee

The Conference Committee serves as the heart of our member-led planning, ensuring the Annual Conference remains a space shaped by and for our community. This committee acts as the essential link between our Program Committee’s scholarly vision, our Local and Community Engagement Committee’s place-based relationships, and the Attendee Engagement’s wellness and networking initiatives. By unifying these member-driven efforts, the committee ensures your experience—from the research you share to the community connections you build—is purposeful and cohesive. Their work bridges the diverse aspects of our gathering to create an inclusive environment where every member can thrive.

The Conference Committee consists of a Chair and Co-Chairs of the following in-group committees: Attendee Engagement, Local and Community Engagement, and Program Committee. Current members of these roles are listed after the following committee information. 

2027 Conference Committee Leadership Team

  • Alicia Castillo Shrestha
    Alicia Castillo Shrestha
    Director for Conference and Professional Development Association for the Study of Higher Education
    Staff Partner
  • Courtney Luedke
    Courtney Luedke
    Associate Professor/ Co-Director, Center for Urban Education Leadership University of Illinois - Chicago
    Co-Chair, Conference Attendee Engagement Committee
  • Tenisha Tevis
    Associate Professor/Director Oregon State University
    Co-Chair, Conference Attendee Engagement Committee
  • Cherese Fine
    Associate Professor Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
    Co-Chair, Conference Local and Community Engagement Committee
  • Catherine N. Montoya
    Catherine N. Montoya
    Assistant Professor New Mexico State University
    Co-Chair, Conference Local and Community Engagement Committee
  • Stephanie Aguilar-Smith
    Stephanie Aguilar-Smith
    Assistant Professor University of Georgia
    Co-Chair, Conference Program Committee
  • Leonard D Taylor Jr
    Associate Professor, Director of NSSE Indiana University
    Co-Chair, Conference Program Committee