Message from the Chair
September 2025 NACAC Board Meeting Update
What a joy to see over 6,100 attendees in Columbus, Ohio, for NACAC Conference 2025! For me, the conference experience is about connecting with colleagues on all sides of the admission table, and learning how to best support our students, families, and each other. I hope that you, too, had the opportunity to fill your cup. We have the conference highlights online for all to enjoy.
I’ve had the privilege of attending every NACAC conference since I started in the profession in 2003. This year’s conference was bittersweet as I closed out my term as chair of the NACAC Board of Trustees. I am filled with such gratitude as I reflect upon my experiences with fellow board members and our work together this year. We are united in our shared purpose for NACAC’s mission and vision — all in service to our bright future and the road ahead.
I am pleased to share updates with you from the board meeting held at NACAC Conference 2025 in Columbus. Our action items and discussions included:
- Standard Business
Donnell Wiggins was appointed chair of the Strategy Committee and secretary of the board. Kasey Urquidez was appointed chair of the Finance & Audit Committee and treasurer of the board. Their terms began on Oct. 1.
- Philanthropy Strategy & Messaging
The board heard a presentation from NACAC’s consultant regarding recommendations to evolve the association’s philanthropy strategy and communications efforts. Adam Brumer of Brumer Consulting shared the results of member surveys, observations from philanthropic focus groups, analyses of conversations with the Board of Trustees and the Philanthropic Advisory Council, and more. NACAC aspires to expand its philanthropic support through strategic corporate and foundation partnerships, increased annual giving, and broader engagement with potential funders. The board engaged in thoughtful conversations and will continue to seek Adam’s advice and insight in the months ahead.
- Honoring Chief Education & Policy Officer David Hawkins
After 25 years with NACAC, the Board of Trustees renamed the Government Relations Award the David A. Hawkins Government Relations Award in recognition of David’s extraordinary service to the association and his federal, state, and local advocacy efforts. He was presented with a framed resolution to memorialize this important recognition.
At the conclusion of NACAC Conference 2025, several board members concluded their terms. The board extends its deepest gratitude to Jeremy Branch, Tanya Garcia, Zaire Lionel, Chris Loo, Angelica Melendez, and Joseph Montgomery. These dedicated leaders generously served the association and challenged their board colleagues to think boldly and thoughtfully consider diverse viewpoints. We are a better board because of them.
To conclude my final update on behalf of the Board of Trustees, I’d like to thank you for your support throughout this year. Serving as chair was the greatest professional development opportunity of my life, and I’m proud of our work together.
Derek DuBose is now board chair. I am excited for his leadership and the ways he will energize the board in the coming year. He will be sharing updates with you after future board meetings.
If you have any questions about our board meeting update, please contact boardchair@nacacnet.org.
Sincerely,
​Phil Moreno
Immediate Past Chair
NACAC Board of Trustees