Innovating Career Services at the ICAA 2024 Conference
On July 31, 2024, OFIC sponsored a dedicated Career Services Track as part of the Independent College Advancement Associates (ICAA) 2024 Summer Conference, offering a unique opportunity for advancement and career services professionals to collaborate. The day featured engaging sessions on AI's transformative impact, integrating career readiness into the curriculum, and reimagining career connection opportunities through the upcoming Manufacturing Expo+. The track was well-represented, with 13 OFIC member campuses and 32 attendees.
Key Highlights:
AI & The Future of Fundraising: Beth Kanter's keynote on AI's potential in fundraising inspired participants to lead with ethical foresight in technology integration.
Denison University’s AI Success: Alyssa Smith shared how AI has enhanced alumni engagement and career services at Denison University.
Protopia in Career Services: Max Leisten's session explored the use of Protopia, an AI-powered platform that connects students with alumni and professionals, enhancing career services engagement.
Curriculum Integration: Dr. Jonathon Fagert and Patrick Keebler from Baldwin Wallace University showcased their innovative approach to embedding career education into academic courses.
AI in Career Services: University of Cincinnati’s team discussed using generative AI to create personalized and efficient career development experiences.
Manufacturing Expo+ Preview: Melanie Garrabrant introduced OFIC’s upcoming Manufacturing Expo+, aimed at building stronger connections between students and the manufacturing industry.
The conference also featured a luncheon honoring notable achievements within independent higher education. A special congratulations to OFIC's President, Bill Spiker, for receiving the 2024 ICAA David T. Smittle Distinguished Service Award! This prestigious award recognizes Bill's outstanding volunteer service and leadership, which have significantly enhanced ICAA and its mission to advance professional development and understanding of issues in private higher education and institutional advancement.
The sessions sparked meaningful discussions and provided actionable insights for integrating AI and innovative practices into career services.
We look forward to hosting more in-person career services programming in the near future! Thanks to all who participated.