Appointed Positions

These roles support the governance and operation of the Association. These roles are often appointed by the NODA president.

Spring Learning 2027 Chair and Host Applications Now Open! Learn more below under the Spring Learning section.

Recruitment for these positions typically happens in the fall but can occur year-round.  Leaders are selected through an application and interview process. Below is a complete list of appointed positions, not all positions are appointed each year and each position lists current availability. To view current leaders in these positions, visit the NODA Leadership Directory.The qualification and application process varies for each position and details are listed on the selected application page.

2027 Annual Conference Committee Responsibilities

Qualifications & Eligibility
Application Information
  • Applications open on March 3, 2026
  • Required – Letter of interest that addresses the following:
    • A personal statement explaining your interest and experience, specifically addressing the role you are applying for;
    • What you can contribute to the team;
    • Your experience working with populations, programs and institutions relevant to the position(s) for which you are applying
  • Optional – Resume
  • Complete the application form.
    • Submit your application materials either using the above form or via email to Melissa Guffey, Director of Conferences, at guffe012@umn.edu.
  • Applications close on March 31, 2026.

Desired Experience, Knowledge, Skills, & Attitudes

  • Previous involvement on a regional, Spring Learning, or annual conference planning committee for NODA or other higher education associations.
  • Diverse professional experience with a variety of institution types, OTR roles, supervision lines, etc.
  • Leadership and professional experience which reflect the skills needed to fulfill the responsibilities outlined below.
  • Current knowledge and understanding of the field of orientation, transition, and retention.
  • Previous contributions to the scholarship of the Association such as conference presentations, facilitated workshops/webinars, or publication submission.
  • Sufficient interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with association staff, NODA Leadership, and conference members.
  • Organizational skills sufficient to perform multiple tasks while managing and monitoring many aspects of the conference experience and expectations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to collaborate with the association staff, planning committee members, and NODA leadership. 
  • Ability to assist in creating a unique conference program experience while advancing NODA’s strategic plan.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of NODA’s core purpose, beliefs, values, and core competencies, as well as the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position as stated below.

Primary Responsibilities & Expectations

Overall Committee Responsibilities

  • Complete comprehensive review of evaluations from previous annual conference to determine any changes to the programming and format of NODAC 
  • Recruit conference volunteers, encourage education session proposals, and promote conference registration
  • Develop conference theme and education direction

Chair (1)

  • In consultation with Association staff, interview and select the conference committee. 
  • Lead the conference committee to facilitate and implement conference programmatic content.
  • Facilitate and lead regular meetings with the conference committee and meet with individual committee members as needed. 
  • Working in collaboration with the NODA association staff, support the development and management of the Annual Conference budget.
  • In collaboration with Association staff support a graduate intern(s) during the planning process.  
  • Communicate on a regular basis with the NODA leadership about the Annual Conference planning process. Attend NODA leadership and board meetings as requested. 
  • Assist NODA staff with review of overall conference evaluation.
  • Serve as a committee member on the Educational Initiatives Committee.
  • Meet regularly with the Association staff.

Speakers & Special Initiatives (2)

  • Solicit featured speakers (i.e. plenary speakers, panel discussions, etc.).
  • Coordinate additional educational initiatives that will enhance the conference experience of attendees (special events, affinity spaces, network events, luncheons, panels, etc.).
  • Working with NODA staff, coordinate the logistics of optional conference service project(s).
  • Coordinate additional educational initiatives that will enhance the conference experience of attendees (special events, affinity spaces, network events, luncheons, panels, etc.).
  • Coordinate opening and closing of the Annual Conference. 
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.

Educational Programming (2)

  • Work with NODA staff to review and create deadlines & application timelines for “Call for Programs” and Ed Session Peer Reviewers, plus assist with the creation of  the application form in Sessionize. 
  • Coordinate the review and selection of educational session proposals.
  • Coordinate and develop educational session schedule as well as session evaluation process. 
  • Coordinate with presenter resources and assist with accessibility of presentations including distribution of a presenter guide.
  • Serve as the on site point of contact for the selected AV company for educational sessions.
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.
  • Work with the Communications team to develop educational session evaluations in the conference app.
  • Facilitate “thank you” efforts for all Conference presenters.
  • Assist NODA staff with review of overall conference evaluation related to ed sessions and distribute feedback to presenters and session submitters. 
  • Work with Attendee Experience team to ensure volunteers are confirmed to track attendance & disseminate any information necessary to presenters or attendees for all educational programs (i.e. encourage use of in app evaluations, AV, etc.)
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.

Communications & Technology (2)

  • Work with NODA staff to develop a marketing campaign (promotional videos, social media campaigns/engagements). Including coordinating promotion of the conference at previous NODAC (could include table in the exhibit area & a presentation at the closing banquet with a video highlighting the conference & host city)
  • Assist with communications before, during, and after the Annual Conference via email, social media, & technology updates.
  • Work closely with NODA staff and AV company staff to ensure featured event audio, visual and other technical needs are secured. Serve as the on site point of contact for the selected AV company for large events. 
  • Create “run of the show”, visual aids, and presentations for all large sessions events (opening session, feature speakers, closing ceremony, etc). 
  • Solicit, compile and manage presentations (PowerPoint), videos, and music for large events. Support accessibility efforts for these events.
  • Create a branding guide and templates for all presentations and marketing efforts. 
  • Develop and curate the conference mobile app and other conference related technologies. 
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.

Attendee Experience (2)

  • Coordinate with the local convention and visitors bureau and/or local hospitality companies for discounts and information regarding local attractions & restaurants.
  • Coordinate conference social experiences (side trips, excursions, etc.) including the solo traveler programming. Report to NODA staff for contract review and signing.
  • Identify and liaison with a community partner to offer a positive impact for the host community.
  • Develop and distribute a conference accessibility guide.
  • Working with NODA staff, coordinating on-site registration and check-in process for general registration, OPI, pre-conference, side trips, etc. (including packets, distribution of name tags, etc.) – including preparing FAQ and other “help desk” materials for volunteers.
  • Coordinate the recruitment, assignment, training, supervision & recognition of all conference volunteers.
  • Identify conference volunteer needs & assign volunteers to on-site conference duties, such as assembling registration bags, staffing on-site registration, staffing local arrangements information table, identifying restaurants & local activities, moderating interest sessions, collecting meal tickets as needed, bring-and-brag table, etc.
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.
  • Coordinate on site Wellness opportunities to be included in the conference program.
  • Collaborate with NODA staff and committee members on key conference experiences like New to NODAC/New to NODA, the conference mobile app, and the “Know Before You Go” communications. 
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.

Expectations

➢ ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP

Planning committee members are required to maintain an active Association membership for the duration of their term.

➢ HIGHER EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT

Planning committee members are required to maintain employment at a higher education institution or a non-profit interest in the field of OTR for the duration of their term.

➢ FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

Financial support (institutional or personal) is required to cover travel costs to attend conferences and meetings. If institutional support is unavailable, email the Association Office about the availability of funding through the NODA Excellence Fund.

➢ TIME COMMITMENT

Planning committee members require a commitment through the end of the Annual Conference. During the course of the appointment, planning committee members should anticipate an average of 5-10 hours of Association-related calls and project work per month, in addition to attending in-person and virtual meetings. Time commitments ramp up significantly the months prior to the conference.

➢ COMMUNICATION & REPRESENTATION

Planning committee members responsibilities require members to be in active communication with other members, Board of Directors, Association staff, and external constituents. Planning committee members are expected to engage in discussion and actively participate in committee work. Planning committee members are also expected to represent the Association to the membership with clarity, professionalism, and integrity.

Benefits

  • Build connections with current NODA members and leaders.
  • Influence the professional development opportunities for NODA OTR professionals. 
  • Deepen understanding of event planning, and professional development.
  • NODAC Annual Conference fee waived.
  • Discounted hotel room provided during the Annual Conference.
  • Some meals provided throughout the conference and site visit.
  • Other NODA swag.

2027 Planning Timeline & Commitments

  • April 2026
    • Committee Chair Selected
  • May 2026
    • Committee Members Selected
  • May – October 2026
    • Set conference goals, theme, and logo
    • Plan conference reveal at NODAC 2026
    • Monthly Meetings
  • November 10-13, 2026
    • Attend NODAC 2026 in Atlanta 
  • November 2026 – March 2027
    • Develop Conference Schedule
    • Develop Call for Programs
    • Attend a conference site visit
    • Monthly Meetings
  • March 2027 – August 2027
    • Develop a Conference Program
    • Monthly Meetings
  • September 2027 – October 2027
    • Finalize Conference Details
  • October 22 – October 25
    • On-site preparations
  • October 26 – 29, 2027
    • NODAC 2027
  • November – December, 2027
    • Develop and submit final conference reports
Applications closed

NODA’s governance work is divided into thirteen (13) standing committees, each committee has a different role in the governance and operation of the Association but all committees report to the Board of Directors and recommend policy and procedures for approval. These positions are typically recruited in the fall. Appointments are usually two years in length. Learn more about NODA committees  here.

Chairs

2026 Openings

  • Fundraising Committee
  • Internship Committee


Members

2026 Openings

  • Educational Initiatives
  • Engagement & Access Committee
  • Leadership Development Committee
Apply Now

**NODA Committees are open for all to attend regardless of appointment.

Below are vacant positions in the upcoming launch of communities. Designed to foster belonging and engagement, NODA Communities help members connect professionally and personally, share leading practices, and enhance the orientation, transition, and retention field. Communities are organized into three categories – People, Program & Professional, and Place – offering many ways to learn, grow, and stay connected throughout the year.

Position Descriptions for community leaders can be found here.

  • LGBTQIA+ Community
    • Co-Chairs
    • Program Coordinator
  • Professionals of Color
    • Co-Chair
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
  • Mid-Atlantic
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
  • Heartland
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
  • Southern Plains
    • Co-Chair
  • Pacific
    • Co-Chair
  • Southeast
    • Co-Chair
  • Transfer Services
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
  • Small College Professionals Community
    • Co-Chair
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
  • Transition Programs Community
    • Co-Chair
    • Communication Coordinator
  • Directors and Managers
    • Communication Coordinator
    • Program Coordinator
Apply Now

These leaders are responsible for the visioning, implementation, and implementation of NODA’s various institutes, symposiums and core competency courses. Faculty/facilitators are appointed by the NODA President or lead faculty. Appointments are usually one year and then renewable.

  • Orientation Professionals Institute, Directors and Managers Institute, and Graduate Student Symposium Faculty

Qualifications & Eligibility

Desired Experience, Knowledge, Skills, & Attitudes

  • Previous involvement on a regional, spring learning, or annual conference planning committee for NODA or other higher education association.
  • Diverse professional experience with a variety of institution types, OTR roles, supervision lines, etc.
  • Leadership and professional experience which reflect the skills needed to fulfill the responsibilities outlined.
  • Current knowledge and understanding of the field of orientation, transition, and retention.
  • Previous contributions to the scholarship of the Association such as conference presentations, facilitated workshops/webinars, or publication submission.
  • Sufficient interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with association staff, NODA Leadership, and conference members.
  • Organizational skills sufficient to perform multiple tasks while managing and monitoring many aspects of the conference experience and expectations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to collaborate with the association staff, program committee members, and NODA leadership.
  • Ability to assist in creating a unique conference program experience while advancing NODA’s strategic plan.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of NODA’s core purpose, beliefs, values, and core competencies, as well as the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position as stated below.
Conference Planning Committee

There will be one Spring Learning Conference Chair to provide leadership for all conference planning committees. There will be one planning committee for each Spring Learning location. A planning committee will consist of the following roles:

  • Host/Co-Host (1-2)
  • Attendee Experience (1-2)
  • Educational Programming (2)
  • Communication & Technology (2)
  • Speakers & Special Initiatives (1-2)

At least one conference committee member should work at the host institution, preferably a co-host, but not required.

Primary Responsibilities & Expectations

Conference Chair

With the guidance of the Association Office staff, the Spring Learning Conference Chair will work in collaboration to plan and implement the spring conferences. 

Primary responsibilities and expectations:

  • In consultation with Association staff and Hosts/Co-Hosts, interview and select the conference committee.
  • Lead the Hosts across all locations to facilitate and implement conference programmatic content.
  • Facilitate and lead regular meetings with the hosts/co-hosts and meet with individual planning committees as needed. 
  • Working in collaboration with the NODA Association Office Staff, support the development and management of the conference budget.
  • Support conference logistics to help create a shared, consistent conference experience/schedule across all locations and contribute to the strategic vision of the Spring Learning conference model 
  • Meet regularly with the Association Office Staff and Board Liaison. 
  • Attend and participate in the Spring Learning Advisory/Task Force Committee and meetings.
  • The Spring Learning Chair will attend one in-person conference and the virtual conference.

Application closes April 29, 2026

apply to be the 2027 conference chair
Conference Planning Committee

There will be one planning committee for each Spring Learning location. A planning committee will consist of the following roles:

  • Host/Co-Host (1-2)
  • Attendee Experience (1-2)
  • Educational Programming (2)
  • Communication & Technology (2)
  • Speakers & Special Initiatives (1-2)

At least one conference committee member should work at the host institution, preferably a co-host, but not required.

Host/Co-Host

  • In consultation with Association staff and the Spring Learning Chair, interview and select the conference committee for your location.
  • Lead the conference committee to facilitate and implement conference programmatic content.
  • Facilitate and lead regular meetings with the conference committee and meet with individual committee members as needed. 
  • Working in collaboration with the NODA Association Office Staff and the Spring Learning Conference Chair to support the development and management of the conference budget.
  • Be the liaison between the host institution and NODA to help coordinate space, dining, parking logistics, payment agreements in advance, etc. 
  • Coordinate with the local businesses and hospitality companies for discounts and sponsorships. 
  • Coordinate committee schedules/Run of Show at least a month in advance so the attendee experience team can strategically seek volunteers.
  • The Spring Learning Host or Co-Hosts are required to be available for the conference. This includes the days prior to the conference to verify shipment arrivals and prep time, the entirety of the conference, and through the clean up and shipment of remaining supplies. (NODA understands emergencies at the last moment, but Hosts should not make previous arrangements to miss any of this time.)
  • Attend committee meetings and meet with Association staff / Committee Chair as needed.

Application closes April 29, 2026

Apply to be a host/Co-host

Educational Programming

  • Review deadlines & application for “Call for Programs”.
  • Coordinate the review and selection of educational session proposals.
  • Coordinate and develop educational session schedule as well as session evaluation process.
  • Coordinate with presenter resources and assist with accessibility of presentations including distribution of a presenter guide and a slide template.
  • Help recruit Peer Reviewers. 
  • Provide presenters feedback from the Peer Reviewing process and with post-conference session evaluation survey results when applicable. 
  • Coordinate additional education programming like case study competitions, panels, etc.
  • Serve as the on-site point of contact for the selected AV company for educational sessions.
  • Attend committee meetings and trainings, plus meet with Association staff / Spring Learning Conference Chair as needed.

Attendee Experience

  • Coordinate conference social experiences (for undergraduate students, graduate students, and professional staff) and passive conference activities 
  • Identify and liaison with a community partner to offer a positive impact for the host community.
  • Develop and distribute a conference accessibility guide.
  • Support conference check-in process for general registration
  • Coordinate the recruitment, assignment, training, supervision & recognition of all conference volunteers.
  • Work with the other planning committee members to determine decorations (tableclothes, centerpieces, etc.)
  • Attend committee meetings and trainings, plus meet with Association staff / Spring Learning Conference Chair as needed.

Speakers & Special Initiatives

  • Work with Associate staff and Conference Chair to determine conference keynotes. 
  • Coordinate additional educational initiatives that will enhance the conference experience of attendees
  • Coordinate opening and closing of the Conference. (including but not limited to creating script, keynote remarks, etc.) 
  • Act as on site contact for keynote speakers and other leaders in connection with special initiatives. (pre-arrival information, day of presence and follow up thank yous, etc.)
  • Attend committee meetings and trainings, plus meet with Association staff / Spring Learning Conference Chair as needed.

Communications & Technology

  • Assist with communications before, during, and after the Conference via email, social media, & technology updates.
  • Collaborate with Speakers and Special Initiatives to help with run of show and slide creation 
  • Collaborate with Ed Programming to create ed session slide template for presenters 
  • Create the “know before you go” guide by collecting information from the other planning committee members
  • Solicit, compile, and manage presentations (PowerPoint), videos, and music for large events. Support accessibility efforts for these events.
  • Develop and curate the conference mobile app and other conference related technologies. 
  • Help create conference branding in collaboration with NODA staff, the Chair, and the other planning committees for the other locations 
  • Attend committee meetings and trainings, plus meet with Association staff / Spring Learning Conference Chair as needed.
Planning Committee Applications
opening soon!
Expectations

➢ ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP

Conference committee members are required to maintain an active Association membership for the duration of their term.

➢ HIGHER EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT

 Conference committee members are required to maintain employment at a higher education institution or a non-profit interest in the field of OTR for the duration of their term.

➢ FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

Financial support (institutional or personal) is required to cover travel costs to attend conferences and meetings. If institutional support is unavailable, email the Association Office about the availability of funding through the NODA Excellence Fund.

➢ TIME COMMITMENT

Conference committee members require a commitment through the end of the Spring Learning Conference. During the course of the appointment, program committee members should anticipate an average of 5-10 hours of Association-related calls and project work per month, in addition to attending in-person and virtual meetings. Time commitments ramp up significantly the months prior to the conference.

➢ COMMUNICATION & REPRESENTATION

Conference committee members responsibilities require members to be in active communication with other members, Board of Directors, Association staff, and external constituents. Conference committee members are expected to engage in discussion and actively participate in committee work. Conference committee members are also expected to represent the Association to the membership with clarity, professionalism, and integrity.

Benefits

  1. Build connections with current NODA members and leaders.
  2. Influence the professional development opportunities for NODA OTR professionals and students.
  3. Deepen understanding of event planning, and professional development.
  4. Spring Learning Conference fee reduced rate.
  5. Some meals provided throughout the conference.
  6. Other NODA Swag.

These leaders use their expertise and talents to help develop publications, programs, and services offered by NODA. These leaders are appointed by the NODA President. Appointments are usually one year and then renewable by the President.

NODA is currently accepting chair applications for the following until the positions are filled:

Occasionally special groups are formed for specific task or projects. Appointment varies by group but typically is done by the Association staff.

Questions?

If you are not sure where to start or if you have questions about any of the above NODA leadership positions, contact the Leadership Development Committee at LeadNODA@umn.edu.