SAAL aims to routinely share recaps of key assessment conferences through blogs to disseminate our observations that benefit the broader student affairs assessment community. In line with SAAL’s 2024 strategic priorities, this blog marks the first in a new series that aims to provide consistent, intentional, structured reflections from SAAL leadership on significant trends and takeaways from major assessment conferences. This series is designed to connect these reflections to SAAL’s strategic goals, offering actionable observations and broader implications for the field. This first post offers a detailed reflection on the 2024 Assessment Institute and the conversations shaping the field. We welcome other reflections on these conferences from our members.
The 2024 Assessment Institute, held from October 27 to 29, brought together a community of higher education professionals dedicated to advancing student success through thoughtful and data-driven practices. The conference coordinators made a concerted effort to engage student affairs assessment professionals, creating an atmosphere overflowing with energy and excitement. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect in person with colleagues from across the field and strengthen professional networks. Held in Indianapolis, the conference was filled with inspiring sessions, invigorating conversations, and a collective energy that left participants motivated to continue shaping the future of higher education assessment. I left the conference feeling reenergized and equipped to tackle the many challenges that come with my role.
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Success
The conference offered an array of educational opportunities designed to meet the needs of assessment professionals across higher education. Attendees could participate in pre-institute workshops, which provided in-depth exploration of specialized topics such as equity-centered assessment practices and effective data storytelling. The conference had Rise-and-Shine 20-Minute Sessions to energize attendees at the start of each day, 7:00am!!! These quick presentations provided concise advice on key topics, setting a positive and focused tone for the day's learning and discussions. Featured speakers, including leading voices in student success and institutional effectiveness, delivered thought-provoking keynote addresses that set the tone for the conference.
Additionally, sessions were thoughtfully organized around over 25 topic areas, covering a broad spectrum of interests and professional needs. These included student affairs assessment, equity and inclusion, faculty engagement, institutional research, co-curricular learning, and the integration of technology in assessment. This intentional structure allowed participants to curate their own conference experience, whether they were seeking to deepen expertise in a familiar area or explore emerging trends and innovative practices. From foundational concepts to advanced strategies, the 2024 Assessment Institute ensured that there was something for everyone committed to improving student outcomes through assessment.
Day 2: Leadership, Learning, and Collaboration
The momentum continued on Day 2 with an inspiring panel discussion featuring leaders from prominent student affairs associations and organizations. The Student Success Landscape: A Conversation and Call to Action, featuring Tori Rehr, Paul Holliday-Millard, Ed.D., Kimberly Kruchen, and Shaun Boren, Ed.D., and Renée Delgado-Riley, Ph.D. hosted by Joseph Levy, Ed.D. This session demonstrated the pressing need for institutions to back claims of being student-centered with meaningful, data-informed narratives. Panelists representing ACPA Commission on Assessment & Evaluation (ACPA-CAE), NASPA Assessment Evaluation & Research Knowledge Community (NASPA-AER KC), and Student Affairs Assessment Leaders (SAAL) discussed emerging trends, barriers, and actionable solutions shaping the student affairs assessment landscape. The energy in the room was incredible as we celebrated the dedication of professionals working tirelessly to elevate the field. Thanks to the contributions of all, the session was a true highlight.
Later, I had the privilege of co-leading a session with Dr. Divya Bheda to update the AAHE Nine Principles for Student Learning Assessment. Together with engaged participants, we explored how these principles can be reimagined to guide all higher educational professionals in creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. As always, the 2024 Assessment Institute provided an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and exchange both inspiring stories and shared challenges. These moments of commiseration and camaraderie remind us of the collective commitment we hold to data-informed student support and institutional improvement.
The SAAL Social at The Social Cantina was an incredible joy of the 2024 Assessment Institute, bringing together 36 attendees for our largest gathering yet! The evening was filled with delicious tacos, refreshing margaritas, and, most importantly, meaningful connections with colleagues and friends in the student affairs assessment community. It was a fantastic opportunity to unwind, share stories, and strengthen the bonds that make SAAL such a supportive and dynamic network plus sharing of our SAAL SWAG! Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to the vibrant atmosphere, we cannot wait to host more events like this in the future! What insights or experiences from this conference resonate with your own work? We’d love to hear your reflections and related perspectives.
Looking Ahead
This year’s Assessment Institute was not just a conference but a call to action. As a community, we explored how assessment can be leveraged to tell powerful stories, drive meaningful change, and ensure equity in student success initiatives. From updating foundational principles to shaping the narrative around student affairs, every session reinforced the importance of our work.
Thank you to all who attended, presented, and contributed to the success of this year’s conference. Let’s continue driving collaboration and impact as we support students and our institutions in navigating the complex challenges of higher education through assessment.
The Assessment Institute in Indianapolis is the oldest and largest U.S. event focused on assessing and improving higher education. Join us for the 2025 Institute, which will be held Sunday, October 26, 2025, through Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.
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2025 Call for Proposals: The 2025 Call for Proposals is open with a priority deadline of Friday, February 28, 2025, for proposal submission.
Here’s to the future of student success, driven by the power of assessment and community. See you next year!
This blog post was written by Renée Delgado-Riley, SAAL President and Director, Assessment and Research, Division of Student Life at the University of Oregon.