Patti Spaniola

Director of Conferences & Events

University of West Florida

ACHE Immediate Past President

 

What is the most valuable leadership lesson you have gained from your experience with ACHE?

It’s impossible to choose just one. Everyone I have encountered with ACHE since I joined in 2011 has brought a lesson to me. Sometimes, the lessons are joyful and easy and other times, they are challenging and hard. Every lesson has given me beneficial knowledge that has prepared me for the next step I needed to take in my leadership development.


In what ways has your involvement with ACHE contributed to your professional growth and the advancement of your career?

Practicing in a safe environment with a network of smart and capable colleagues has been invaluable. From developing new programs, seeking advice from peers, running for office, and practicing concepts via presentations at conferences has given me the opportunity to bring a polished product to my organization. My ACHE colleagues’ support has been priceless to me as I build my confidence while exploring new areas of leadership development.

 
 

Kennedy & Company has been supporting ACHE members with strategic and operational services for 10-plus years. It's been our pleasure to help grow enrollments, implement new CRM technologies, build internal capacity, improve organizational operations, and engage in strategic planning with ACHE members. Strategic initiatives have been on our minds recently, and each member of our leadership team is ready to share growth-focused tips to keep in mind as the 2024-2025 Academic Year continues. Want to discuss growth initiatives with Kennedy & Company? Sign up for a complimentary 30-minute strategy session today! Follow us at LinkedIn and visit kennedyandcompany.com. 

 
 

Join us in Milwaukee for the 87th Annual ACHE Conference, October 13–15, 2025! Whether you're an attendee looking to connect with leaders in continuing higher education or a business partner ready to showcase your services, now is the time to register. Don’t miss this opportunity to build meaningful connections, gain valuable insights, and be part of shaping the future of our field. Secure your spot today and take advantage of early bird rates!

 

A Hybrid Leadership Development Program


The 2025 Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI) is a distinguished leadership development program designed to empower the growth of higher education professionals. This hybrid institute comprises three virtual sessions and one in-person session, offering participants an interactive and comprehensive learning experience.


The program will culminate in an in-person session at the University of La Verne with experienced continuing education leaders, where attendees will engage in hands-on leadership workshops, networking opportunities, and collaborative discussions. ELI is ideal for emerging leaders seeking to enhance their leadership competencies, develop strategic thinking skills, and expand their professional networks within the field of higher education.


For more details on registration and the event schedule, please visit the official ACHE ELI page. Join us in La Verne this summer to take the next step in your leadership journey!


Registration is now open, and we encourage you to secure your spot by visiting our website before June 3. Take the next step in your professional journey and join the Emerging Leaders Institute today. Join us on June 24-27, 2025 for this exciting experience. We look forward to seeing you there!

 
 

The ACHE Nominations Committee is currently accepting nominations for the following leadership positions through May 15: 

  • Vice President (Executive Committee)
  • Directors-at-Large (3 openings; Board of Directors)

Eligibility for Office 

Basic Eligibility for Vice President and Directors-at-Large: 

  1. Be an institutional, organizational, or professional member in good standing, per the Constitution. Service, leadership, and contributions to the association are expected prerequisites. A candidate must have served in a significant role with ACHE. 


Additional Eligibility Criteria for Vice President: 

  1. Must have completed a term as regional chair based on the requirements of his or her region;
  2. Or must have served at least one year as the chair of an association committee;
  3. Or must have served one year as an association Director at Large.
  4. And must have a minimum of one letter of support from the nominee’s provost or president or other appropriate administrator approving candidacy and acknowledging time and financial commitments of association officers. 


For a complete description of the requirements, roles, and responsibilities of ACHE Officers, please consult the ACHE Guide for Candidates. 


We hope that you will consider nominating yourself or a colleague for one of these exciting leadership opportunities!

 
 
 
 

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