Dear MIACADA Members and Friends,

On behalf of the Michigan Academic Advising Association, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our community!  MIACADA recognizes that academic advising is more than a role; it's a calling to support, guide, and empower students through some of the most transformative moments of their lives. At the heart of that work are the advisors, counselors, administrators, and educators who bring empathy, insight, and energy to campuses across Michigan everyday. As such, I am honored to build on the strong foundation laid by past leaders to expand our reach across the state, support strategic goals, and advocate for the vital role of academic advising.

Our mission centers on supporting and connecting academic advisors across Michigan and this commitment is reflected in everything we do. Whether you're just beginning your advising journey or have years of experience, MIACADA is here to provide the connections, resources, and opportunities to help you thrive.

As I reflect on my own membership of nearly a decade, what stands out most are the meaningful connections I’ve made with colleagues across the state. That’s why we continue to expand our outreach, creating inclusive spaces for dialogue, collaboration, and mutual support across all institution types and regions. Through regional events, workshops, online forums, and our annual conference, we strive to ensure every voice is heard and every advisor feels seen.

Professional growth is another cornerstone of MIACADA. Personally, I’ve found this community to be a safe space to step outside my comfort zone and grow as an advisor and leader. We are proud to offer development opportunities that are practical, forward-thinking, and responsive to the evolving landscape of higher education. From mentorship and leadership pathways to skill-building and best practice sharing, MIACADA is your partner in lifelong learning.

I invite you to engage with our association through attending an event, joining a committee, presenting your ideas, or simply connecting with a colleague. Mark your calendar for our State Conference on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Ferris State University in Big Rapids! In the meantime, keep an eye out for ways to connect throughout the year, whether virtually at a Talk About it Tuesday, or in-person at Taste of MIACADA. 

Thank you for the important work you do and being part of MIACADA. Together, we’re building a statewide network rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student success. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at miacada@gmail.com with your ideas, questions, or feedback. We value your input and would love to hear from you! 

I look forward to connecting with you soon and wish you a rewarding and successful year ahead.

Sincerely, 

Stefanie Janes, MA, LPC

MIACADA President