Professional Development Opportunities

Date: September 11, 2026
Time: 1:00 p.m., EST
Session Title: Building Strategic Vendor Partnerships for Institutional Success
Presenter: Robert Kubat – Penn State University
Register here: https://rutgers.zoom.us/j/95574534698?pwd=EEYqbThDIHMLHA0qmivBWtv9Ym5dwV.1
Successful vendor partnerships are essential to achieving institutional goals, yet managing these
relationships effectively requires more than simply overseeing contracts and services. This session will
equip registrar and admissions professionals with practical strategies for transforming vendor
interactions from transactional engagements into strategic partnerships.
Attendees will gain insights into evaluating vendor offerings, navigating the contract negotiation
process, and collaborating effectively with procurement services during vendor selection. The session
will also explore best practices for managing vendor relationships, maximizing the value of vendor
services, ensuring accountability, and building productive long-term partnerships.

Date: October 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m., EST
Session Title: AI & Cybersecurity in Higher Education: Navigating Risk, Privacy, and Trust
Presenter: Vern Chhibber, Rutgers University
Register here: https://rutgers.zoom.us/j/94553958597?pwd=5s1dWO5eg3PcDiuYiXCARl7gP70chW.1
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into higher education operations, it also
introduces new cybersecurity opportunities and risks. This session will explore the intersection of AI and
cybersecurity, including emerging threats, data privacy concerns, responsible use of AI, and ways
institutions can protect sensitive student and institutional information. Participants will gain practical
insight into how enrollment and student services professionals can incorporate AI while maintaining
security and trust.

Date: October 30, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m., EST
Session Title: Open Discussion: What Would You Like to See as an MSACROA Member?
Register here: https://rutgers.zoom.us/j/97392020507?pwd=p9BDsisiNEjtNAXk3s4u3Is8Yar1QS.1
Presenter: Sandie Pitts, Rutgers University
An open and collaborative discussion designed to give members an opportunity to share their ideas,
needs, and expectations for MSACROA. We will explore ways to strengthen member engagement, professional development, networking, communication, and opportunities for collaboration, while identifying initiatives and resources that would provide greater value to our membership.

Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m., EST
Session Title: Financial Aid: The “Big Bill” and Supporting Students Through Financial Change

Register here: https://rutgers.zoom.us/j/98853848388?pwd=yXPkRfhHpkPPfATbhzU7KNvx6EOWeC.1

Explore the recent federal legislation commonly referred to as the “Big Bill” and its implications for financial aid, affordability, and access to higher education. This session will examine key changes and how institutions are responding, with a focus on student-centered strategies, effective communication, and cross-campus collaboration. Participants will gain practical insight into how financial aid and enrollment professionals can help students understand changes in funding and eligibility, navigate their options, and remain on track toward enrollment and degree completion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact [email protected].