The Values, Philosophy, and History (VPH) competency area emphasizes the importance of student affairs educators learning about the history of higher education and incorporating that knowledge into their practice.  The VPH competency “embodies the foundations of the profession from which current and future research, scholarship, and practice will change and grow” (ACPA & NASPA, 2015, p. 18). Through studying history, one can understand the philosophy of faculty and student affairs practitioners and the ways in which it differs and converges.  History also offers a timeline of how values in higher education evolved over time, for example greater access for different populations.  The VPH competency unifies a group of professionals in understanding where the profession has been and establishing goals and values for the present day and future.

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I currently have foundational knowledge, skills, and dispositions in the VPH competency area. I attribute much of this knowledge to completing coursework in HEA 618: Student Affairs Administration and HEA 616: American Higher Education.  In both courses, the history of higher education and institutional types plus the philosophy and values of the profession are largely discussed. I have studied and utilized foundational documents, such as ACPA’s (1994) Student Learning Imperative: Implications for Student Affairs and ACPA & NASPA’s (1996) Principles of Good Practice for Student Affairs throughout my coursework in the program. I also completed HEA 504: Community College Administration, which provided further insight into the philosophy and values of student affairs practitioners in a community college environment. I model service and engagement by participating in Buffalo State College's Bengal's Dare to Care Day and the United Way Day of Caring. 

 

As the Vice Chair for Professional Development for HESAA, I plan and facilitate professional development events to help maximize opportunities for learning and networking while students are in the program. During the 2019-2020 academic year, we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the program and are focused on hosting events that speak to the values of the program founders. The theme "Committed to Diversity and Student Success for 50 Years" prompts everyone involved with the program to consider the ways in which they contribute to and promote diversity. Individual contributions enhance student and faculty experiences in the classroom as well as support the development and success of students as future professionals. Hopefully, alumni carry on the tradition of valuing diversity and supporting student success in their roles on campus. Researching the background and works of potential conference speakers for this year has helped me learn more about the existing community of student affairs leaders that share similar values and philosophies.

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Artifacts

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Blog: Ask Yourself Often "How did I get here?"

Through reflecting on my history and experiences, I am able to identify my path into the field of higher education and student affairs administration. I can articulate the alignment between my personal values and interests and the values and philosophy of the profession, as well as how previous career opportunities and learning experiences enhanced my level of interest and commitment.

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Blog: Professional Association Exploration

By researching the mission, activities, and membership benefits of professional associations, I identified three organizations of interest that I will follow in order to support my desire to be a lifelong learner and stay informed on research, topics, and trends in higher education. 

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Professional Development Event Example

I utilize my strengths to organize professional development events to benefit students, faculty, staff, and alumni. This action aligns with the values and philosophy of the profession and contributes to creating educational and rewarding experiences.

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