The Unique Value of Community Colleges in Student Affairs

Student Affairs professionals often serve as the heartbeat of a college campus, shaping transformative experiences for students at every stage of their educational journey. In the latest episode of Student Affairs Voices from the Field, host Dr. Jill Creighton is joined by Colleen Maeder, Director of Student Services at Miracosta College's San Elijo campus. Together, they deliver an insightful discussion on the unique value of student affairs—especially within community colleges.

This episode masterfully details Colleen Maeder's multifaceted career spanning both two-year and four-year institutions, public and private, on both coasts. Dr. Jill Creighton highlights how Colleen's trajectory allows her to offer a "bird's eye view" of why student affairs work truly matters.

One major theme centers on the personalized and community-focused approach at community colleges. Colleen Maeder emphasizes that student affairs at these institutions must deeply reflect the local community's needs—whether serving traditional-aged students, adult learners stepping back into education, seniors, or those facing significant basic needs challenges such as food or housing insecurity. "Everything we do should be a reflection of the community that we are in," she explains, illustrating the importance of adaptability and empathy.

Another critical topic is the evolving role of technology, specifically Artificial Intelligence. Both Colleen Maeder and Dr. Jill Creighton recognize AI's double-edged potential: while it evokes new concerns about academic integrity, it also offers opportunities for innovation in supporting and reaching students. Despite challenges, the human element of care and personal connection remains irreplaceable.

Building trust and fostering belonging remains at the core. Many community college students have faced systems that let them down, making it vital for student affairs professionals to be truly present. Colleen Maeder discusses the imperative for in-person support, consistent follow-through, and programming tailored to diverse populations and needs.

The episode also addresses a persistent challenge: effectively communicating the value of student affairs. Too often, student affairs professionals are "really, really bad at this," Colleen admits. She calls for improved storytelling—sharing real, transformative moments and personalized successes—to enhance understanding both within and outside higher education.

If you're searching for inspiration, practical insights, and a celebration of the deeply human work at the heart of student affairs, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear firsthand stories and advice from passionate professionals who are shaping the future of higher education—one student at a time.

TRANSCRIPT

Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:02]:
Welcome to Student Affairs Voices from the Field, the podcast where we share your student affairs stories from fresh perspectives to seasoned experts brought to you by naspa. We curate free and accessible professional development for higher ed pros wherever you happen to be. This is season 13 on the value of student affairs. I'm Dr. Jill Creighton. She her hers your Essay Voices from the Field host.

Dr. Jill Creighton [00:00:27]:
Today on SA Voices, we're welcoming Colleen Maeder. Colleen earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Lemoyne College and a Master of Science in Community Counseling from Syracuse University. Her journey in higher education began as a resident Director at Binghamton University and the College of New Jersey. She later discovered her passion for community colleges while serving in the conduct office at Kingsborough Community College in New York City. Colleen transitioned to the private sector at New York University, where she advanced to Associate Director for Student Conduct and Restorative programs, focusing on Title IX conflict resolution and restorative practices. Her career then took her to the west coast where she served as Associate Director for Student Wellbeing at Santa Clara University, supporting non clinical mental health and basic needs. Today, Colleen is the Director of Student Services at Miracosta Colleg