Advancing Your Career in Student Life: A Session for BIPOC Staff

In March of 2024, Black(B), Indigenous(I) and people of colour (POC) staff in the Student Life Programs and Services (SLP&S) cluster were invited to attend a panel and networking event focused on career advancement and working in leadership roles in Student Life/Student Affairs as racialized staff. The event was organized and coordinated by BIPOC leadership staff within SLP&S who shared their insights, experiences and career journeys via a panel discussion followed by a Q&A.

The goals of the event were to:

• facilitate networking and shared learning among BIPOC staff in the cluster
• create an opportunity for informal mentorship and the encouragement of future BIPOC leadership
• provide solidarity and support

With more than 30 registrants and participants engaging both virtually and in person, SLP&S racialized staff engaged deeply with the event; Diverse questions and discussions were raised, ranging from the best ways to approach professional development to addressing the need to continue pathways for racialized leadership within Student Life.