The Champion for Change recognition celebrates NODA members who are transforming their campuses through the implementation of intentional programs and initiatives that cultivate a sense of belonging for students and all members of their campus community.
The nomination form is open to all current members of NODA. The Diversity & Inclusion Committee reviews all nominations and chooses the Champion. The committee’s hope is that the transformative work our Champions do will inspire others to be change agents on their campuses and in their roles.
Do you know someone who is a Champion for Change? We want to showcase our members who are making a positive impact on their campuses. Self nominations are encouraged.
Congrats to our Champions for Change!
Key to Success: Observation for Transformation
Julia’s work at FIT involved establishing an 8-week FYE course and bringing new technology to improve orientation programming. Julia’s nominator said, “She is a great observer and has an ability to view a program, event or training, acknowledge what it does well and take it from something good, to something great. Julia’s organizational skills, drive, and strategic planning are how she enacts positive change on our campus.”
When asked what she is most proud of, Julia highlighted the transformation she has seen in her orientation leaders and new students. “Seeing the smiles on their faces, the connections they are making with new students and each other, and watching them blossom into fantastic leaders is just so heartwarming… it fills my cup daily,” she shared. Julia’s efforts have not only enhanced the orientation program but have also set a positive tone for the entire academic year at FIT. Julia’s nominator wrote, “We have never received higher scores on assessments from students saying they made new friends, felt more comfortable coming to campus, and that they connected with their new community here at FIT.”
From Transferring as an Undergraduate to Shaping the Student Experience
Julia’s success did not come overnight. She attributes her accomplishments to deep self-reflection, research, and intentional planning. “It took a lot of self-exploration to understand why orientation was not only crucial to my institution but also why it mattered so much to me personally,” she explained. By leveraging institutional feedback, national data, and countless hours of hard work, Julia crafted a program that is both impactful and intentional.
Two pivotal moments shaped Julia’s commitment to fostering belonging: her own experience as a transfer student seeking connection and her early career in alumni relations, where she witnessed the impact of her previous student engagement firsthand. These experiences fueled her passion for student affairs, inspiring her to create programs that help students feel seen, heard, and valued. She said to “personally experience my own disconnect and then [see] how the right connection can help a person flourish is why I do this and why I am always working towards enhancing the student experience.”
Advice for Change-Makers
For her peers looking to create change, Julia offers practical advice: “Really listen to the students and take your feedback assessments seriously… Collect all the data you can! Numbers don’t lie!” During her first year at FIT, Julia carried Post-it notes and a pen everywhere, capturing every observation, solution, and idea she could implement. This hands-on commitment to understanding the community’s needs has empowered her team and student leaders, deepening their engagement and dedication. Julia also emphasized the need to learn “how to advocate and when to advocate. The hardest part is learning that not everything is a top priority and it’s really about the long game.”
Julia A. Romano
Assistant Director, Orientation & New Student Programs
Fashion Institute of Technology
Previous Champions
Listening and Collaboration: The Keys to Success
Mark takes immense pride in the work he does, which involves creating programs that support students’ journeys. When asked what it took to accomplish this work, he emphasized the importance of two major steps: always listening and never working alone. “I can push for all the change and develop programs that I want to see, but without listening to the needs of the students that these programs are for, these programs would be a waste,” he explains. Mark knows that creating meaningful change requires the collaboration and buy-in of students, staff, and administration. He believes that “many hands make light work,” underscoring the value of teamwork in achieving impactful outcomes.
Advice for Change-Makers
For those who aspire to create change in their own institutions, Mark offers straightforward yet powerful advice: “Be bold. Ask questions. And work.” He acknowledges that change can be intimidating, especially at institutions that pride themselves on tradition or lack a culture of change. However, he encourages his peers to be the first to openly question processes, programs, or traditions. “I promise that you are not the only person to question what your institution is doing. Once you lift your voice, others usually join in. And even if they don’t, it is better to be a single voice than to continue supporting programs that don’t support our students.”
Leveraging Recognition for Greater Impact
Mark plans to leverage his recognition as a Champion for Change to further his impact and inspire others. He understands that people often resist making change due to the fear of what can go wrong. Mark intends to use this recognition to encourage others to just try. “I’d show them that the change can be positive and make an impact that even they may not see,” he says. Knowing that his efforts are appreciated motivates him to continue working hard and advocating for those around him.
A Journey of Advocacy and Inspiration
Mark’s commitment to fostering belonging is deeply personal, shaped by his own experiences of facing dismissal and belittlement based on his professional and personal identities. These experiences fuel his resolve to ensure others in his community never feel the same way. He strives to listen and advocate for those ostracized within the campus community, acknowledging that while he can’t create a sense of belonging for everyone, he can make a significant difference for many.
Mark draws inspiration from observing others passionately advocate for change and a better world. This drives him to continue lifting his voice in advocacy, particularly for those who may not have the means to advocate for themselves. His journey and achievements are a testament to the power of listening, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to creating inclusive and supportive environments.
Mark Bagwell
Director of New Student & Family Programs, Utah Tech University