2025 TxGAP GEM Conference Schedule

Concurrent Sessions (More are being added daily)

Topic: Navigating Conflict, Building Relationships, and Managing Up
Abstract: In this interactive session, we will explore essential strategies for handling tough conversations and building relationships within higher education. By understanding communication your communication styles and others, you can better tailor your approach to your supervisor, peers, and key stakeholders. Through real-world examples and discussions, we'll highlight the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and relationship building to achieve professional success, especially when managing up or down. We'll share practical tools to help you approach tough conversations and navigate conflict through the lens of management. This session will use live surveys and small group discussions to engage and problem-solve real-life situations and conflicts.
Presenter(s): Amy Trakimas, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Topic: Empowering Graduate Students: Fostering Ownership in International Travel Experiences
Abstract: Texas A&M's Professional MBA and MS Business programs have increased student attention, engagement, and ownership of international trips using some straightforward techniques during preparation and travel.
Presenter(s): Deborah Mann, Texas A&M University

Topic: Elevating Engagement: Innovative Marketing and Recruitment Strategies for Working Professional Graduate Programs
Abstract: As the landscape of higher education evolves, so do the needs and expectations of working professionals seeking graduate programs. This proposal explores cutting-edge marketing and recruitment strategies tailored to attract, engage, and retain this unique demographic. By leveraging digital platforms, personalized outreach, and community-driven initiatives, institutions can enhance their visibility and appeal to busy professionals balancing career growth with academic aspirations.
Presenter(s): Regan Metoyer-Peterson, Texas A&M University Mays Business School

Topic: Employability: The Ultimate Outcome of Student Success
Abstract: The views of graduates, the very recipients of employability development, are not well understood. Research often examines academic institution and employer views on student career readiness, but the student perception is many times ignored.  Understanding their perspectives is crucial, as gaps between graduates and employers, in terms of necessary employability skills, could lead to unemployment or underemployment (Tymon, 2013). Bridging the gap between student perceptions and employer expectations requires concerted efforts from higher education institutions. This proposal seeks to explore a students perception on their perceptions of their ability to be ready for the transition from academia to the workforce.  It is important to determine what factors are perceived to be important in this process to ensure that the graduate feels prepared.
Presenter(s): Angie Dunn, Texas A&M University

Topic: The Social Construction of the Graduate Student Experience: Harnessing the Powers of Language and Defined Institutional Values
Abstract: The Graduate Admissions team has been working on collaborating with other offices to improve the graduate student onboarding experience, which has historically suffered from a lack of intentionality and a perception of division between offices. The university has recently established new core values: connection, commitment, compassion, and courage. This presentation will share the current status and outcomes of a values-driven, social constructionist approach to improving the graduate student onboarding experience. Areas of application will include communication with students, other offices, and the community.
Presenter(s): Whitney Dennis, Texas Wesleyan University

Topic: Academic Advising & Time Poverty: How to Help Our Students Low on Time
Abstract: Time poverty is a phenomenon where individuals feel that they lack leisure time after fulfilling their paid and unpaid labor obligations (Vickery, 1977). In my presentation, I will go over the main themes and signs of time poverty and give research-backed recommendations on how advisors can help students that are struggling with their higher education goals due to time poverty.
Presenter(s): Savannah Sanders, Texas A&M University

Topic: Born To Lead: How To Climb the Leadership Ladder in Higher Education
Abstract: This session will provide insight as we discuss how to climb the ladder of success in higher education leadership.
Presenter(s): Dr. John Smith Jr, Tougaloo College

Topic: The Power of Labor Market Data: Shaping Graduate Programs for Career-Driven Students
Abstract: Today’s graduate students are looking for more than just a degree—they want programs that lead to real career opportunities. By leveraging labor market data, institutions can design curricula that align with industry needs, incorporate in-demand skills, and use strategic language to attract career-focused professionals. This session will explore how integrating workforce insights into program development and marketing enhances student outcomes, strengthens enrollment, and ensures graduates are well-equipped for success in a rapidly evolving job market. Join us to discover how data-driven strategies can transform graduate education and enrollment management!
Presenter(s): Victor Lopez, Baylor University