2026 NASPA Strategies Conference

Attending the 2026 NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) Strategies Conference was one of the most impactful professional development experiences of my college career. As a Bobcat Peer Educator in Ohio University's Office of Health Promotion, the conference provided an opportunity to connect with peer educators, health promotion professionals and student leaders from colleges and universities across the country. Through presentations, workshops and networking opportunities, I gained valuable insight into the innovative ways institutions are promoting student well-being and creating healthier campus communities.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the conference was meeting peer educators from a variety of institutions and learning about the unique challenges and opportunities they face on their campuses. Despite differences in size, location and student demographics, many schools shared a common goal: creating environments where students feel supported academically, socially and emotionally. Hearing firsthand accounts of successful programs allowed me to better understand the role peer education can play in improving campus culture and student outcomes.

Throughout the conference, I attended sessions focused on student well-being strategies, health promotion initiatives and community engagement. Presenters shared evidence-based approaches to addressing issues such as mental health, sexual health, substance use prevention and student belonging. What stood out most was seeing how intentional programming and peer-led initiatives were making measurable differences in students' lives. From large-scale wellness campaigns to small peer support programs, these efforts demonstrated the power of student-centered approaches to health promotion.

The conference also challenged me to think beyond my current role and consider how I could contribute to positive change on my own campus. Listening to the successes of other institutions inspired me to identify unmet needs within my community and explore ways to address them. As a result of the ideas, strategies and connections I gained through NASPA, I began the process of creating a new student organization focused on fostering community, education and well-being among students. The conference not only provided the inspiration for this initiative but also gave me practical examples of how to build sustainable programming that can have a lasting impact.

Attending the 2026 NASPA Strategies Conference expanded my understanding of health promotion, strengthened my leadership skills and connected me with a network of passionate student advocates from across the country. The experience reinforced my commitment to student well-being and empowered me to take a more active role in creating positive change within my campus community.

At the 2026 NASPA (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) Strategies Conference, I was introduced to peer educators from across the country.