SHU Hosts Regional College Admission Conference

More than 500 counselors, vendors and others gather for professional development, networking

Sacred Heart University welcomed more than 500 college administrators, industry vendors and admissions, high school and independent counselors to campus at the end of May for the New England Association for College Admission Counseling (NEACAC) 2024 Annual Meeting & Conference.

This was the first time in 20 years that the NEACAC conference took place in Connecticut, and SHU administrators were thrilled about the opportunity to host counselors and industry experts from throughout the region. During the day, participants attended meetings, professional development sessions and networking events in SHU’s Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts and the Frank and Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts. In the evening, they enjoyed entertainment in the Martire Family Arena.

“Hosting this conference was an incredible honor and a wonderful way to showcase Sacred Heart’s beautiful facilities and welcoming community,” said Pam Pillo, assistant vice president of undergraduate admissions. “The attendees hold influential positions, and they benefited from professional development sessions on many pertinent topics impacting our industry and prospective students’ needs.”

Pillo, on-site coordinator for the event, said a planning committee met over the last year to ensure the four-day conference went smoothly. “As on-site lead, I secured room reservations and use of our state-of-the-art facilities for the various programs,” Pillo said. “I also worked with the residential life office to arrange housing for attendees who wished to stay on campus.”

Staff members throughout the University helped make the conference a success. Pillo credited undergraduate admissions, residential life, SSC Services for Education, the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts team, the special events and hospitality team, information technology, mail room, student union, public safety and Chartwells Dining Services with providing “outstanding support.”

She said the conference gave attendees opportunities to discuss challenges, network with colleagues and experience SHU’s hospitable campus.