Brandi Hephner LaBanc, UM vice chancellor of student affairs and professor of higher education, was recently named a Pillar of the Profession by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators.

The NASPA Foundation’s Pillar of the Profession Award honors professionals who have provided significant service to NASPA. 

“I am deeply humbled,” Hephner LaBanc said. “It is an enormous honor to be considered in the ranks with these other pillars of the profession. I look up to many of the previously named pillars, they have helped guide and mentor me. I never envisioned myself as part of this elite group of honorees, so I am deeply, deeply honored. I have always tried to align my actions and values with my teaching and practice. Now, more than ever, as a recognized leader in the profession—I feel a sense of responsibility to continue that approach and mentor others to achieve the same success.”

Each year, at the NASPA Annual Conference, the NASPA Foundation recognizes distinguished individuals who have served as leaders, teachers and scholars in student affairs. Individuals are nominated and supported for designation as a Pillar by colleagues, students, friends or others who find them deserving of this honor.

“She is absolutely one of the most phenomenal leaders I have encountered during my career,” said Neal Hutchens, professor and chair of higher education. “And, on top of all her professional talents and accomplishments, she is one of the most friendly, welcoming, and humble persons I have ever met.”

“I am incredibly proud to call Dr. Brandi Hephner LaBanc my mentor,” said Jill Zambito, assistant vice chancellor for student life at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. “She has truly changed my life and has done the same for countless other professionals.”

By Veronica Crawford