I am excited to welcome you all to another academic year! Postsecondary education, although a privilege in this nation, serves those from privileged and marginalized backgrounds. I hold this reality close to my heart as I begin my work as President for Minnesota ACPA this year. It is essential for professionals in this discipline to recognize the inherent worth of all. This year is a unique year where we have experienced continued attacks on higher education DEI+ efforts. We have siblings in the form of colleagues, students, family and friends who are being negatively impacted by the legal maneuvers that aims to dismantle counter-storytelling of the dominate narrative. Despite the prevailing attacks, I can promise you that MN ACPA will continue to serve all professionals of our discipline with intentionality, equity and dignity. You are inherently worth!
As we get underway with our service to you this year, we encourage you to get involved in the many professional development opportunities that we offer. We have plans to offer self-paced, passive and direct opportunities to ensure accessible and inclusive options across the state. I am wishing you all fulfillment, grace, and time as you navigate another year of educating, supporting, and advocating for students and one another. Your team here, at MN ACPA, are here to support you in any way that we can!
Here’s to a socially justice year!
King regards,
Steven D. Parker, M.A., M.S.W., L.S.W.
President