Do You Know The Way To VPSA? Professional Development for the Preparation of Senior Student Affairs Officers

Abstract: Previous research on preparation for the VPSA role has emphasized career progression rather than participation in professional development activities. This study aimed to explore the perceived effectiveness of 11 different professional development activities across 8 of the NASPA/ACPA Professional Competency Areas for Student Affairs Educators in preparing them for the VPSA role. VPSAs gave high effectiveness ratings for discussions with colleagues and mentoring as professional development activities. Relationships were also crucial in professional development choices, with recommendations from colleagues and mentors being common ways to find out about and choose professional development activities. The findings offer insights for emerging student affairs leaders, institutions, and professional associations seeking to enhance preparation for future VPSAs.