“Navigating the Storms: Leadership
in Times of Campus Climate Crises”
October 20-22, 2025 | Montclair State University, New Jersey
In an era of heightened scrutiny, rapid change, and campus unrest, today’s college and university leaders must navigate increasingly turbulent waters. Join fellow higher education administrators from across the country for an engaging and solutions-focused conference that tackles some of the most pressing leadership challenges in the academy.
Conference Highlights
Featured Speakers
Simon Barker
Blue Moon Consulting Group
Managing Partner
Jessica Riddell
Bishop’s University, Canada
Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence, Professor of Early Modern Literature
Adam Pryor
Council of Independent
Colleges
Senior Advisor, A.I. Strategy and Engagement
Jonathan GS Koppell
Montclair State University
President
Junius Gonzales
Montclair State University
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Gregor Thuswaldner
Higher Education Leader, Author,
EdUp Provost Podcast Host
Gloria Thomas
HERS
President
Hillary Link
Drew University
President
John L. Hopkins
Post University
President
Keynote Presentations
Presidents Navigating the Storms
In a timely and thought-provoking panel, Jonathan Koppell, President of Montclair State University, joins fellow college and university presidents to tackle the conference’s central theme: Navigating the Storms: Leadership in Times of Campus Climate Crises. Moderated by AAUA President and CEO Sandra Affenito, this conversation will explore presidential perspectives on leading with vision, resilience, and integrity in an era of institutional upheaval.
Preventing Crisis at Your Institution
Simon Barker of Blue Moon Consulting Group will explore how proactive leadership can prevent crises before they escalate. Drawing on real-world case studies, he’ll offer practical tools for strengthening institutional readiness and trust.
Taking the Temperature of Campus Climates
Jessica Riddell of Bishop’s University introduces a bold new framework for understanding campus climate through the lens of institutional ecosystems. Drawing on her work with dozens of colleges and universities, she offers actionable insights to move campuses from dysfunction to flourishing.
Building AI-Ready Campuses
Adam Pryor of the Council of Independent Colleges will outline strategic approaches for building AI-ready campuses. With a focus on institutional resilience, he’ll share leadership strategies for integrating AI across operations, fostering literacy, and preparing for an AI-driven future.
Introducing The Chief Academic Officer’s Handbook
In a special fireside chat, Gregor Thuswaldner and Junius Gonzales introduce The Chief Academic Officer’s Handbook: A Provost’s Guide for Visionary Leadership. Drawing on their extensive experience and the book’s diverse insights, they’ll explore what it takes to lead with clarity, courage, and strategic foresight in today’s complex academic landscape.
Schedule at a Glance
Registration
Members
Full Conference
$525
Early
Through Aug. 15
$600
Regular
Aug. 16 – Sept. 30
$675
Late
Oct. 1-13
One Day Pass
$300
Non-Members
Full Conference
$725
Early
Through Aug. 15
$800
Regular
Aug. 16 – Sept. 30
$875
Late
Oct. 1-13
One Day Pass
$400
Planning
Accommodations
DoubleTree By Hilton Fairfield Hotel and Suites
Group Name: Annual AAUA Conference Room Block
$149.00 for 1 King or 2 Queen beds
To take advantage of this special rate offer, please call 844-335-2364 and mention “Annual AAUA Conference Room Block” or visit our website, input the “Dates of Stay” and in the “Special Rates” tab please add Group Code: “94C”
