Professional Development

Throughout the year, VACE offers its members opportunities for professional development through activities such as Employer Drive-In Visits, Workshops, Webinars, and Conference Scholarships. The interaction among college and employer members allows for self-improvement and learning.

Employer Drive-In Visits – During the summer months, we host one at least ‘drive-in’ each month  to various employers across the state.  For example, in summer 2016, we visited Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Newport News to meet Geico, Dominion, the United Network for Organ Sharing, Liebherr and the Port of Virginia.

Professional Development Workshops – In the fall we hold a day long workshop, designed to align with the NACE competencies and encourage each member’s personal professional development. Topics have \ included: personal branding; LinkedIn tips; stress reduction; time management and communication skills. 

Webinars – During the winter months, we host monthly webinars in order to reach our membership where they are.  Topics are varied for both the employer member and the college member. Topics this year have included: Millennials, Current Trends in Job Recruiting, A Strong Employer Relations Program,  How to Engage with Colleges and Trends in Career Development. 

Scholarship – Each year we recognize active and engaged VACE members with complimentary registration to the annual conference.  Applicants are actively solicited in the late fall to apply.

For the most up to date information about our professional development activities be sure to check out the Events Calendar.

Annual Conference

Held each Spring, the annual conference provides an opportunity to share timely information and focus on important issues. Noteworthy speakers address major developments in the field, group discussions focus on key areas of program development, and social gatherings provide ample time for members to exchange ideas with new and old colleagues alike. Learn more about this year's conference.

Online Membership Directory and Database

Members establish and maintain a personal membership account with the ability to search for other members by name, organization, member type, and VACE involvement (e.g., conference committee members, board members, etc.). Members must be logged in to the site to access the directory.

VACE Listserv

Members have an account on the organization listserv in order to receive communication and send communication to other members regarding events taking place in their areas in which others may be invited to attend, advertise job opportunities and serve as a forum to share pertinent information.

Committee Participation

A number of committees, including the Annual Conference, Awards, Diversity Equity & Inclusion, Marketing & Membership, Professional Development, and Technology & Communication committees, offer numerous opportunities for member involvement and leadership development.

Exclusive Online Content

Members who login to the VACE website have access to additional content. This includes a searchable member directory, access to your profile, recorded Professional Development webinars, board meeting minutes, our community forum, and more!

Mentorship Program

All VACE members have the opportunity to join a voluntary mentorship program that allows both new and seasoned members the opportunity to share knowledge and ideas, grow professionally, and continue to build their professional network. This is a year-long, formal relationship where Mentors and Mentees are matched based on specified areas of interest. We hope that you will consider becoming a part of yet another way to make VACE great. For more information please read over our new guidelines. Interested in serving as a Mentor or Mentee? Complete our Interest Survey today!