CSUSB Student Affairs Academy Closing Ceremony 2026
At the conclusion of another impactful year, the Division of Student Affairs at California State University, San Bernardino proudly celebrated the 2026 Student Affairs Academy Closing Ceremony, recognizing a new cohort of emerging student affairs professionals committed to supporting student success and shaping the future of higher education.
The Student Affairs Academy is a professional development program designed for new Division of Student Affairs professionals and paraprofessionals interested in pursuing careers in student affairs leadership. Throughout the academic year, participants engaged in a series of in-person sessions focused on the history of student affairs, student development theory, identity and leadership, legal and ethical practices, career pathways, and the evolving landscape of higher education.
This year’s academy was hosted in partnership with University of Redlands, further strengthening the program’s commitment to leadership development and educational equity within higher education. The collaboration provided participants with expanded opportunities for learning, mentorship, and professional growth through engagement with higher education leaders and graduate-level perspectives in the field.
University of Redlands Master of Arts in Education: Higher Education and Student Affairs Program prepares professionals to lead change and promote equity in higher education. Through an educational justice lens, the program helps build expertise in higher education leadership, student development, and the application of research to practice, values that closely align with the mission and goals of the Student Affairs Academy.
Hosted by the Division of Student Affairs, the academy provides participants with opportunities to build meaningful professional connections, explore various functional areas across the division, and deepen their understanding of the critical role student affairs professionals play in supporting student belonging, engagement, retention, and success.
The 2025-2026 cohort represented a diverse group of professionals from across campus departments who dedicated the academic year to expanding their knowledge and leadership capacity. Through the cohort model, participants gained hands-on insight into the student affairs profession while building a supportive community of peers and mentors.
The closing ceremony served as both a celebration of participants’ accomplishments and a reflection on the continued growth of the program. The Division of Student Affairs remains committed to creating professional development opportunities that empower staff members to thrive while continuing to foster an inclusive and supportive campus environment for all students.
To learn more about the Student Affairs Academy, visit our webpage: Student Affairs Academy Webpage