The start of a new year offers a meaningful opportunity to pause and reflect on the work we have done, the lessons we have learned, and the direction we want to move next. It is a time for setting intentions, renewing our commitment to students and institutions, and imagining what is possible for sorority/fraternity advising. 2026 is especially meaningful for our Association as we celebrate 50 years of service to our profession. For five decades, AFA has brought together professionals who share a commitment to student development, values-based leadership, equity and inclusion, and the continuous improvement of sorority and fraternity communities. Our history is grounded in collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, and it has been shaped by the passion and dedication of members like you.
While we honor our past, this milestone is also an opportunity to look forward and continue elevating the sorority and fraternity experience. Higher education and sorority/fraternity life are evolving rapidly, even as we face profound challenges (from societal and human rights challenges to campus safety and student well-being) that affect the communities we serve. Fraternity/sorority advisors also navigate increased scrutiny, shifting policies, emerging technologies, and changing student expectations around leadership, accountability, and inclusion. These realities demand adaptability, informed action, and a commitment to learning and connection. Your AFA membership equips you to meet these challenges with confidence and compassion to support students, volunteers, and colleagues through complex moments while providing you with a support system of professionals across North America who can help you troubleshoot situations, provide feedback, or just listen.
As a member of AFA, you have access to a wide range of resources designed to support your professional growth at every stage of your career. From educational programs and events, community collectives, and communities of practice to publications and AFA Learning, AFA provides support for the complex and meaningful work you do. Equally important, membership connects you to a vibrant community of colleagues who understand the unique challenges of sorority and fraternity advising and higher education in general. The true power of AFA lies at the intersection of learning and connection. Learning and professional growth are amplified when we engage with one another – as thought partners, collaborators, or through mentorship. Your experiences, insights, and engagement shape the future of both the Association and the profession.
As you start 2026 and AFA kicks-off its 50th anniversary celebration, I challenge you to elevate your professional experience by developing goals that enable you to use AFA’s resources to increase your toolkit, exchange ideas, and create a strong support system of peers who are navigating similar experiences. Go beyond passive membership and intentionally cultivate connections with other members. Attend a program, participate in one of our 12 communities (regions, collectives, or practice-based), volunteer your time and expertise, and/or use your voice to positively influence the business of our Association. Seek mentorship from someone you’ve always wanted to be mentored by and/or offer guidance to someone you believe could be positively affected by your knowledge and experience. If you attended the AFA Annual Meeting last month, put at least one idea, strategy, or insight into action within the next 30 days, and connect with at least one fellow AFA member to share what you tried, what worked, and what questions came up for you. If you didn’t attend the AFA Annual Meeting, have conversations about what was learned with those who did or look out for information about the AFAAM Reload to get access to the experience. Whether you are just beginning your journey in fraternity and sorority advising or bring years of experience, your engagement matters, and the relationships you build within AFA make a difference not only for you, but for the students and communities we serve. Every action strengthens your growth and the broader AFA membership – and elevates the standard for effective professional practice in working with sororities and fraternities.
May this new year be one of purpose, progress, and renewed connection for you. Use AFA’s resources to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and support students and communities in meaningful ways. Thank you for being part of this milestone year and for investing in yourself, your colleagues, and the profession through your AFA membership. We look forward to learning, growing, and celebrating alongside you in our 50th year!