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November 17-22, 2024
16th Annual NABITA Conference

  • Date
    November 17-22, 2024
  • Location
    Palm Beach County Convention Center
16th Annual NABITA Conference

Join us in West Palm Beach, FL, for the premier nationwide behavioral intervention and threat assessment conference, a pivotal gathering for professionals dedicated to making education safe for all. This year, we’re hosting our 16th Annual Conference from November 17-22, 2024, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. What sets us apart is our curated learning experience, with Pre-Conference certification courses taking place November 17-18, 2024, and Post-Conference certification courses taking place November 21-22, 2024. This comprehensive structure offers an expansive training and networking experience unmatched in the field, providing you with the tools and connections you need to excel in your profession.

Register Today

The 16th Annual NABITA Conference: Where Theory Becomes Practice
A message from NABITA’s President, Makenzie Schiemann, M.S., Ph.D.

“As a former NABITA member, attending the NABITA conference was the highlight of my year. Connecting with peers engaged in similar work across the country was invigorating, and I always returned with insights that significantly enhanced my efforts at my institution. Now, as NABITA’s President, I find the conference even more rewarding, as I get to see our members and attendees come together to discuss strategies, advance their skills, and make new connections.”

Makenzie Schiemann, M.S., Ph.D., President of NABITA

Read More

Find Your People

In the challenging world of behavioral intervention and threat assessment, finding a supportive community is crucial. Our Annual Conference is more than just an event; it’s a platform to connect with experts, share solutions, break down the silos in our work, and find renewed inspiration in your mission. Whether you’re dealing with case management complexities or implementing institution-wide policies, you’ll find allies, mentors, and peers at our conference.

Conference Highlights

  • Pre- and Post-Conference Certification Courses: Elevate your skills and qualifications with our certification courses.
  • Expert-led Sessions: Gain insights from leading voices in multidisciplinary behavioral intervention.
  • Opening and Closing Keynotes: Hear thought-provoking sessions on pressing prevention and intervention issues.
  • Roundtable Sessions: These sessions provide attendees with an opportunity to have topical, informal conversations with experts and peers about current trends and practices.
  • Welcome Reception: The official kickoff to the Annual Conference welcomes attendees and celebrates the behavioral intervention and threat assessment community.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build valuable connections with professionals from across the nation.
  • Exclusive Hotel Room Block: Stay at the heart of the action in the official conference hotel venue.
  • Fun Awaits Outside: Explore our host city’s vibrant culture.

Preferred Pricing and Registration!

Make the most of your Annual Conference experience by taking advantage of our exclusive preferred pricing:

  • Preferred Pricing for all NABITA Members on conference registration. Not a member? Join now!
  • 20% off Conference Registration when you bundle it with a Pre- or Post-Conference certification course.
  • Multi-person Registrations offer a unique opportunity to save even more while ensuring your team benefits from this comprehensive learning experience. Registrations of two to four courses are eligible for a 15% discount, and five or more registrations qualify for a 25% discount.
  • Member Training Inclusions for Super Members and K-12 Professional Development Package holders. These members may apply any unused inclusions from their complimentary training codes toward registrations.

Conference Schedule and Event App

A comprehensive schedule of conference sessions, networking opportunities, and interactive learning experiences are designed to support, educate, and inspire you in your BIT work. Our event app will connect attendees and communicate updates throughout the event.

The Year-Round Benefits of Membership

NABITA membership offers year-round benefits, not just during the Annual Conference. Members access a wealth of resources, such as community events, 20 Minutes to…Trained, tools, case management templates and forms, a community listserv, and preferred pricing on training.

Unlock Your Full Potential at NABITA

Empower your career and contribute to the evolution of behavioral intervention and threat assessment. Join us for an unforgettable experience that promises to enrich your professional journey.

Schedule

  • K-12
  • BIT Operations
  • Case Management
  • Safety & Threat Assessment

Behavioral Intervention Team Standards & Best Practices

Sunday & Monday, November 17-18, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET Both Days

This two-day certification course teaches NABITA’s 21 Standards for Behavioral Intervention Teams, which offer industry-leading best practices for effective BIT/TAT/CARE teams. Whether building a team or refining an existing one, this course will improve team performance based on NABITA’s standard operating procedures and protocols.

Discover the methodology behind defining a BIT/CARE/TAT team and team structure, including who should be on the team and what types of concerns the team should respond to. Participants will learn how to implement NABITA’s Risk Rubric for objective referrals, apply mandated assessments, and administer thorough interventions. Further insights will be offered into developing strategies for marketing and advertising the team. NABITA faculty members draw from their years of expertise, research, and literature in threat assessment, psychology, and law enforcement.

Attendees will benefit from interactive case studies and ample time for discussion, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both the foundational and advanced aspects of effective BIT/TAT/CARE team operations. Our faculty members recognize that each process, team, and school is unique. The NABITA Standards for Behavioral Intervention Teams present a flexible framework for building a team that meets the institution’s needs. Participants will learn how to apply the standards within unique contexts.

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

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Case Management Support and Interventions

Sunday & Monday, November 17-18, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET Both Days

This two-day certification course, formerly known as Case Management Advanced Interventions, trains professionals who work one-on-one with individuals who are experiencing difficulty or are in distress to assess risk and provide appropriate intervention. Participants will learn how to assist in removing individuals’ barriers to success to increase holistic well-being. The course is highly beneficial for any professional in a support capacity who meets one-on-one with individuals who are experiencing difficulties, making it broadly applicable to many roles within educational environments.

The content in this course covers high-impact intervention techniques to change behavior, reduce harm, and engage students in goal setting. After course completion, participants will have a toolkit of skills and knowledge to help students improve their well-being and reduce risk including solution-focused techniques, harm-reduction methods, and motivational interviewing skills. These tools will equip participants to improve the outcomes of meetings with individuals facing challenges or needing support.

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

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Non-Clinical Assessment of Suicide (NAS)

Monday, November 18, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET

This one-day certification course teaches research-based practices to assess, intervene, and manage suicide risk for students, both on campus and virtually. Using NABITA’s Non-Clinical Assessment of Suicide (NAS) tool, participants will learn how to triage the overall risk for suicide an individual poses. The tool relies on risk and protective factors to help non-clinical professionals conduct assessments.

NABITA’s expert faculty members will train participants in how to identify an individual who may be experiencing suicidal ideation, strategies for asking about suicide in a one-on-one appointment, and in-depth application of NAS as a suicide assessment tool. Additionally, participants will learn how to make an effective referral to clinical mental health services and deploy appropriate interventions based on the level of risk assessed using NAS.

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

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Annual Conference Registration

Monday, November 18, 2024 | 3:30-5:30pm ET

Join us anytime between 3:30pm-5:30pm ET to check in for the 2024 Annual Conference. Meet with NABITA staff and take a sneak peek at the exhibitor tables.

Opening Keynote: Inside the Mission to Stop Mass Shootings

Monday, November 18, 2024 | 5:30pm-7:00pm ET

For over a decade, journalist Mark Follman has studied mass shootings and the evolving field of behavioral threat assessment. In this keynote address, he will draw upon research from his book, “Trigger Points,” as well as his recent magazine cover story, “Lessons From a Mass Shooter’s Mother,” an in-depth exploration of a tragic event in a California college town. The discussion will dispel fundamental myths about perpetrators, examine the role of mental health, and provide insights to enhance public understanding and community engagement in violence prevention.

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Welcome Reception

Monday, November 18, 2024 | 7:00pm-8:00pm ET

Join us for a welcome reception for the 16th Annual Conference as we celebrate the behavioral intervention and threat assessment community. Traveling companions and partners are welcome to attend. Food and beverages will be served.

Featured Session A: Critical Connections Through Crisis Intervention: Co-Response in a University Setting

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

Crisis response within the higher education setting is a critical element of supporting student retention and ensuring that students receive skilled and compassionate response when mental health concerns impact individuals’ functioning and the campus community at large. Mobile crisis response (MCR) teams that pair law enforcement or public safety officers with mental health clinicians are an emerging best practice on college and university campuses. These programs are often based on existing co-responder models found in cities and counties, but the application in the higher education environment has special considerations involved in working within existing resource frameworks. The Johns Hopkins University Behavioral Health Crisis Response Team (BHCST) is the first 24/7 team on a college campus in the US; this presentation will review the origins of the team, community engagement, and initial process and impact evaluation – and how campuses of all sizes and resource profiles can consider their own needs and how to construct a co-response framework.

Learning objectives:

  1. Review the process of initiating the JHU Behavioral Health Crisis Support Team program, including community engagement and integration of mobile crisis response into existing resource frameworks.
  2. Share barriers and challenges with suggested strategies for developing and implementing a successful program on a university campus.
  3. Analyze metrics of success for program evaluation and explore ways to use data in informing program changes.
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Featured Session A: Two Sets of Standards, One Set of Principles

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

As a newer profession in higher education, the work of case managers has long been built on “common” practice. Looking to formalize this work and establish best practices across the field, both the Council for the Advancement of Standards, in partnership with the Higher Education Case Manager’s Association, and NABITA have published standards for case management in higher education. Join the Presidents of HECMA and NABITA to learn about how these two sets of standards are aligned and how they can be implemented in tandem. Whether your school has case management as a position or you are practicing case management as a process, presenters will discuss strategies to enhance your efforts and ensure your programs and process are in line with national standards of practice.

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Featured Session A: Integrating a Risk Management Process into the Work of Threat Assessment Teams: Standards of Care, Review Criteria and Case Illustration

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

All threat assessment teams work in a high-risk environment given their scope of practice and the types of cases assigned to them. While TATs should avoid practicing defensively as a way of managing risk, there are reasonable steps that teams can take to ensure that they are working within both a standard of practice and a standard of care. This workshop will provide a case example that illustrates the types of challenges that TATs face when managing high risk cases while also proposing a checklist of questions that teams can use to evaluate the extent to which their work aligns with emerging standards that exist within the field. This review process provides TATs with a risk management tool to assess their work with high risk cases and allows teams to consider whether they have met specific standards they may be held to if there is a bad outcome. Moreover, because threat assessment cases are dynamic in nature the checklist provides guidance to TATs on additional steps that should be considered with ongoing cases and “informs practice” in ways that parallel the use of these methods in health care practices.

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Featured Session A: Updated K-12 Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) Standards

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

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Concurrent Session 1: It’s Alive! We Created Our Own Monster – Now What?!

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

Campuses have spent years attempting to develop a culture of reporting and referral in their communities. Sometimes, it can feel like we’re begging stakeholders to let us know when students are in distress or there is a concern for safety, but how do we manage when the referrals start to exceed the capacity of our designed systems? This session will explore strategies for how the University of Northern Colorado has pivoted to ensure that our systems could bend and not break from an exponential increase in student of concern referrals in the past five years. Participants will look at innovative design for centralized reporting structures, intentional case management, policy revision, and maximizing casefile databases.

Presenters:
Colleen Sonnentag, Ph.D., Dean of Student Development, University of Northern Colorado
Mallory Tuhkanen, M.A., Coordinator for Conduct and Wellbeing, University of Northern Colorado
Shane W. Borah, M.S.Ed., Senior Case Manager, University of Northern Colorado

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Concurrent Session 1: Building Capacity: Creating a Professional Development Opportunity in Non-Clinical Case Management

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

Student support systems are vital because students come to campus with complex concerns. Presenters will share an innovative approach to bolstering these systems through the implementation of a Visiting Staff program. Using strategic partnerships, the Visiting Staff program allows university staff members to intern in the unit that conducts non-clinical case management to support students. This opportunity serves as professional development, strengthens partnerships between units, and provides additional support for the work of the host unit.

Presenters:
Devin Berghorst, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of Students, University of Michigan
Sarah Daniels, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Students, University of Michigan

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Concurrent Session 1: From Theory to Practice: One District’s Roadmap for Implementing Threat Assessment Procedures

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

This session walks participants through the process that Rochester Public Schools took to implement district-wide NABITA threat assessment procedures. Presenters will outline a potential roadmap for other districts to follow to build a comprehensive threat assessment system in their K-12 school system. From the initial stages of building initial interest and investment into the program to ongoing maintenance and sustainability, this session will provide tangible strategies for replicating this system in other districts. 

Presenters:
Koni Grimsrud, Director of Student Services, Rochester Public Schools
Sarah Clark, Mental Health Coordinator, Rochester Public Schools
Chris Lingen, Director of School Support, Rochester Public Schools

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Concurrent Session 2: Deflating the Balloon: Practical Strategies for Increasing Communication and Collaboration to Mitigate Campus Violence

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

You’ve created your team and established a referral process. Now what? In this interactive presentation, we will briefly review recent research that demonstrates the ongoing need for collaboration and effective communication in mitigating campus violence. We will also explore several practical strategies for establishing a solid reputation to build confidence in the referral process and promote valuable services. Participants will leave with useful tools to help achieve and maintain vital connections with key stakeholders, which can be leveraged both in and outside of designated threat assessment meetings. The knowledge and insights gained in this session will contribute to a more effective approach to assessing risk and alleviating pressure that can build toward potential violence.

Presenters:
Bethany Holt, M.A., Director of CARE and Support, Liberty University
Rodney Wilkerson, M.A., LPC., Senior Associate Director of CARE and Support, Liberty University

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Concurrent Session 2: More Than Just a Birthday Party: How to Build an Office Culture

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

Whether it’s burn-out, pay, or the long hours, staff retention has been a hot topic in case management for years. This program will explore how Student Care and Outreach at UGA started with one birthday party and eventually built an office culture that made staff members want to stay. Attendees will be given recommendations for best practices and important points to consider for offices, regardless of size, interested in creating their own unique culture and making staff members feel valued, appreciated, and seen.

Presenter:
Megan Edwards Laconico, M.S., Associate Director of Student Care and Outreach, University of Georgia

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Concurrent Session 2: Violence Risk Assessment with Neurodivergent Students

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

Neurodivergence may complicate the assessment of violence risk. Neurodivergent (ND) students may exhibit behaviors that mimic indicators for thoughts of violence. Although neurodivergence does not itself increase the risk of violence, it may, in some cases, increase vulnerability to violent extremism or radicalization. It is important to contextualize each ND student’s risk factors as well as protective factors, assessing individual risk and mitigation strategies through the lens of neurodivergence. Traits of neurodivergence and best practices for violence risk assessment with ND students will be reviewed. Through group discussion, we will apply an ND lens to the assessment of relevant case examples.

Presenter:
Fiona Vajk, Ph.D., Assistant Director/Training Director, Counseling and Psychological Services, The Claremont Colleges Services

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Concurrent Session 2: The Crisis Management Cycle and Strategies

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

Everyday incidents on campus provide valuable opportunities to develop the skills and protocols needed for larger crises. While full-scale crises may be rare, proactively managing smaller issues prepares teams to address critical situations when they arise. We will review the six-phase crisis management cycle and examine how Behavioral Intervention Teams (BIT) fit into the overall crisis management process. The session will also highlight how BIT and Crisis Management Teams can collaborate effectively to ensure campus safety and well-being.

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Roundtable Session

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 2:30pm-3:30pm ET

Information forthcoming!

Featured Session B: Managing Medical Leave in Higher Education

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 4:00pm-5:30pm ET

Join us for a session on medical leave within higher education institutions. This presentation will explore the framework for medical leave, highlighting the legal and procedural boundaries of what can and cannot be done. Participants will understand clearly how medical leave fits within the spectrum of voluntary and involuntary leave, ensuring they are equipped to handle these situations with compliance and sensitivity.

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Featured Session B: Effective Interviewing of Minors

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 4:00pm-5:30pm ET

This session explores practical and effective interview techniques to gather accurate and timely information from children and teens as part of the BIT or violence risk assessment process. Presenters will review the phases of an interview and discuss preparation, setting and context, rapport-building, gathering information, and closure. This program is designed to empower those who work with children and teens in education settings to conduct interviews that produce accurate, robust, and holistic information.

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Featured Session B: Integrating Law Enforcement into BITs

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 4:00pm-5:30pm ET

This session is designed to delve into the integration of Law Enforcement strategies and knowledge within daily Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) practices, offering a comprehensive exploration of how these approaches can enhance effectiveness. The presenter will provide an in-depth analysis of new innovative practices in the field, highlighting how these practices have evolved over time and their implications for current operations.

Through the use of detailed case studies, the session will illustrate the practical application of Law Enforcement interviewing techniques in conjunction with threat assessment and mental health interviewing strategies. By examining real-world scenarios, the presenter will demonstrate how combining these methodologies can lead to more effective outcomes in identifying and managing potential risks.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into how Law Enforcement skills can be seamlessly integrated with BIT practices to address a diverse range of challenges. The session will emphasize the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration, showcasing how partnerships between Law Enforcement, mental health professionals, and other key stakeholders are crucial for providing comprehensive support to individuals within university communities and beyond.

By the end of the session, participants will have a tangible understanding of the combined effect between various professional approaches and how they can be leveraged to create a more robust and supportive environment. The knowledge gained will empower attendees to apply these integrated strategies in their own practices, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing the needs and concerns of their communities effectively. Essential Information for All Experience Levels: Novice, Mid-Career, and Seasoned Professionals.

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Featured Session B: Infusing Psychoeducational Approaches into Case Management

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 4:00pm-5:30pm ET

Case managers are often in the position to help students navigate their mental health, substance use, and similar concerns. Many case managers express uncertainty about providing emotional support without crossing into the territory of counseling. Drawing on the type of education that is frequently the domain of wellness offices, this session focuses on infusing psychoeducational practices and socio-emotional learning into case management. It introduces frameworks to participants that encourage sharing information and skills while establishing clear boundaries for emotional support. The session will conclude with a discussion about creating a plan for training case managers and an overview of several publicly available trainings for non-clinical professionals to provide psychoeducational information and skills.

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Featured Session B: State of the Field: Overview of NABITA Survey Results

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 | 4:00pm-5:30pm ET

The NABITA 2024 Survey results are in! The field of behavioral intervention is ever evolving and improving. To analyze the trends and changes in the field, NABITA conducts a comprehensive survey every two years aimed at collecting data on trending practices related to team operations, membership, risk assessment, leadership, intervention practices, and more. The results of this survey are critical for team members and administrators as they compare their practices to that of their peers and to the national best practices. This presentation will present the data from the survey and provide teams with trends in practices to assist in shaping their own approach to behavioral intervention work.

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Featured Session C: Implementing Best Practices in Case Management: A Collaborative Approach for Student Success Teams

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

In today’s dynamic higher education environment, the demand for effective, non-clinical case management has never been greater. As students face a myriad of challenges, from mental health concerns to academic pressures and financial difficulties, institutions must develop comprehensive support systems that address these diverse needs. This presentation will cover best practices for implementing a robust case management system within student success teams, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and a holistic approach to student well-being. Attendees will learn to foster interdisciplinary teamwork, enhance communication through technology, and create a supportive campus culture. With a focus on continuous improvement and professional development, participants will leave equipped with actionable strategies to optimize case management practices and significantly enhance student well-being and success.

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Featured Session C: Responding to Campus Protests

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

Many of you may have already encountered or will soon face unrest on your campus, whether stemming from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or issues related to the upcoming presidential election. These situations present various challenges.

Common questions we encounter include: What are the limits of free expression? Are these limits applicable to my campus? How do we reconcile conflicts between free expression and issues of national origin or shared ancestry? Do we have policies in place to address these matters, and are they up to date? What are the physical boundaries of our campus, and what controls exist? What is considered legal? Who has the authority to enforce these regulations? How do we handle concerns related to camping, violence, or the occupation of buildings?

We invite you to join us for a discussion on these crucial topics, where we will offer guidance on effectively navigating them. This session will cover the application of the First Amendment, essential institutional facilities use and campus access policies, the role of campus law enforcement, and how your Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) can effectively manage protests, demonstrations, and riots.

Featured Session C: Operationalizing BIT in a K-12 Environment

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

This session will provide an engaging overview of the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) and threat assessment process. We will use the Eanes ISD, an Austin school district of around 9,000 students, as a case study. We’ll discuss how team structure, meeting logistics, information sources and records management, case management, and legal issues surrounding BITs. This session is intended for K-12 school districts interested in starting a BIT or improving a current team and process.

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Featured Session C: Transitioning from Case Manager to Supervisor

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 8:30am-10:00am ET

Transitioning from the role of a higher education case manager to a supervisory position overseeing case managers presents unique challenges and opportunities. This presentation explores the intricacies of this transition, highlighting the shift from direct student support to managing a team responsible for providing such support. Key themes include developing leadership skills, balancing administrative responsibilities with the need to remain student-centered, and navigating the complexities of team dynamics. Drawing on personal experiences and case studies, the presentation offers strategies for effective leadership, fostering professional growth among team members, and maintaining a cohesive, student-focused approach within the supervisory role. Attendees will gain insights into the competencies required for successful supervision in higher education case management, as well as practical tools for managing the transition.

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Concurrent Session 3: Understanding and Amplifying the Lived Experiences of Critical Incident Case Managers at Institutions of Higher Education

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

A study conducted in 2022 explored the lived experiences of student affairs professionals serving as critical incident case managers at large public higher education institutions. This presentation will summarize the study’s findings and recommendations, highlighting case managers’ experiences with role stress and their navigation of both internal and external pressures. It will discuss effective strategies for responding to critical incidents and providing essential care and support to students of concern, as well as how to address the institutional and environmental challenges impacting this work and how to create caring, supportive systems for students and student affairs professionals engaging in critical incident case management.

Presenter:
Sarah M. Daniels, Ph.D. Associate Dean of Students, University of Michigan

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Concurrent Session 3: Improving Executive Function Skills

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

This session will explore the role of executive function (EF) skills in academic achievement and personal development. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how EF challenges, particularly in neurodiverse populations, impact student outcomes. The session will provide evidence-based strategies for implementing structured routines and personalized interventions that enhance EF skills, equipping educators and case managers with practical tools to support student success.

Presenter:
Brandon Slade, M.A., Founder of Untapped Learning/Special Education Teacher/School Psychologist

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Concurrent Session 3: Navigating Critical Incidents in Higher Education: A Case Study

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

This session offers an in-depth exploration of evidence-based strategies for managing critical incidents within higher education settings. Through an interactive workshop centered on a real-life case study, participants will engage in collaborative analysis and develop proactive measures. This approach equips attendees with practical tools and methodologies to cultivate a supportive and prepared campus environment. 

Presenters:
Nikki Barnett, LMSW, Director of Student Advocacy & Support, Texas A&M University-Commerce
Adam Metts, M.S., LPC-S, Director of Counseling Center, Texas A&M University-Commerce

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Concurrent Session 3: Navigating Change: Lessons from Threat Assessment Laws for K-12 Educators

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 10:15am-11:30am ET

This presentation delves into exploring the state laws requiring threat assessment teams, which often mandates the establishment of threat assessment teams in K-12 schools. We will explore the common requirements of threat assessment focused bills, discuss best practices for forming and operating these teams, and address the challenges schools face in implementation. Drawing from emerging data and case studies from current K-12 teachers, this presenter will provide practical strategies that serve as takeaways for other K-12 educators. Participants will gain valuable insights into navigating these new legislative requirements and enhancing their school’s safety infrastructure.

Presenter:
Tara Shollenberger, Ed.D., Assistant Professor of Leadership Studies, High Point University

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Concurrent Session 4: Operating in a Lean Six Sigma CARE Mindset

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

The presentation will provide new and existing CARE teams/BITs with an approach for establishing a proficient and efficient case management practice mirroring the Lean Six Sigma method. Our approach focuses on first defining and mapping the team’s current process. Once mapped, the team identifies areas of inefficiency, explores possible causes, and chooses a challenge to address that is both meaningful and manageable. This session will share our team’s journey to a more structured, effective, and holistic case management approach to meet the needs of our diverse community college student population.

Presenters:
Belinda Lopez, Director of Student Conduct and Prevention Education, Tarrant County College
Nicole D’alesandro, Ed.D., LPC-S, Counselor Valerie Groll, Ed.D., LPC, Veteran’s Counselor, Tarrant County College
Kiesha R. Shelton, Ph.D., Coordinator of Family Empowerment Center, Tarrant County College

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Concurrent Session 4: Social Contagion of Mental Health Case Studies

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

This interactive, case study-based presentation will facilitate discussion on supporting students impacted by their friends’ and roommates’ mental health issues. It will explore how campuses can be proactive in informing students to seek help early when a friend or roommate is impacting their own well-being.

Presenters:
Eileen Daniel, D.Ed., Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, SUNY Brockport
Karen Logsdon, Ph.D., Assistant to the Vice President for Enrollment Management, SUNY Brockport
Nicole Mucica, Ph.D., Director of Student Accessibility Services, SUNY Brockport

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Concurrent Session 4: Guns on Campus: Applying Emerging Research to Enhance Threat Assessment Practices in Higher Education

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

The debate about carrying a concealed gun on college campuses continues to evolve, with significant implications for campus safety and threat assessment practices. This session examines recent research on the impacts of concealed carry policies, including effects on suicide rates, mental health, and overall safety. Presenters will review key findings and demonstrate how to integrate this emerging data into existing threat assessment practices. Participants will learn practical strategies for enhancing their ability to identify, assess, and mitigate potential gun-related threats on campus. Through a combination of a research review, case studies, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain valuable insights on translating evidence-based approaches into effective strategies for threat assessment teams. This session is designed to equip behavioral intervention team members, threat assessment professionals, and campus safety personnel with the knowledge to address the complex challenges of firearms in higher education settings.

Presenters:
Marjorie Sanfilippo, Ph.D., Executive Director of Academic Excellence, Eckerd College
Tara Shollenberger, Ed.D., Assistant Professor of Leadership Studies, Eckerd College

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Concurrent Session 4: Step by Step Guide for Responding to Threatening Behavior in K-12

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 1:00pm-2:15pm ET

The safety and well-being of our students must always come first. To achieve this, educators need effective strategies for responding to threatening behavior. This session offers a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that empowers K-12 educators to recognize the signs of potential threats, from subtle verbal cues to more overt actions. Participants will learn the steps involved in responding to these potential threats, including conducting individualized assessments to gauge the severity and immediacy of threats, enabling informed and timely decision-making. This session is ideal for teachers, administrators, counselors, and support staff committed to fostering safety in their schools.  

 

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Closing Keynote: Reflections on Grieving, Coping, Thriving, and Advocating in Florida’s Political Landscape

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | 2:30pm-4:30pm ET

Florida’s political shift to the right has substantially transformed the state’s higher education landscape. Using Florida as a case study, this closing keynote session will explore how today’s sociopolitical environment has affected college and university programs serving students’ needs. Implications for K-12 environments will also be addressed.

The state’s 2023 legislative session introduced measures prohibiting public funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, restricting gender-affirming care, and banning public institutions from requiring diversity statements from prospective students, faculty, or staff, calling these statements “political loyalty tests.” These policies have intensified scrutiny of Florida’s State University System (SUS) and have directly impacted state-system college and university programs. These changes present unique challenges in serving students, recruiting and retaining qualified staff, and addressing student concerns. Halfway through 2024, the impacts of these changes still reverberate throughout the state university system.

As departments that serve student needs adapt to the new landscape, they also grapple with the cumulative grief from pandemic losses and fundamental changes to departmental practices. Higher education and K-12 professionals must prioritize and advocate for their well-being and self-care while focusing on thriving and best caring for students and colleagues in the current environment. Effective coping requires deep reflection on fostering a sense of belongingness for all who work in and are served by these offices and renewing a commitment to advocacy. This session will present ways that higher education and K-12 programs can thrive and advocate effectively within the current landscape.

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Building an Individualized Threat Management Plan

Thursday, November 21, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET

This one-day certification course focuses on how to build and implement a practical threat management plan following a violence risk assessment (VRA).

After completing our SIVRA course, participants are equipped with the necessary skills to assess a broad spectrum of risks posed by individuals. This course not only broadens that skill set but also empowers practitioners to apply assessment findings effectively. Participants will learn how to manage and mitigate risks identified during the Violence Risk Assessment (VRA), enhance protective measures, and bolster an individual’s capacity to positively impact their campus community.

Using case studies, this training offers deep insights into engaging with individuals post-VRA. NABITA’s expert faculty members will present interventions such as collaborating with non-clinical case managers, implementing progressive sanctions through the conduct process, using student affairs professionals as support resources, and engaging in safety planning with law enforcement or security professionals.

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

  • Tracks:

Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA)

Thursday & Friday, November 21-22, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET Both Days

Originally developed in 2012, the current version of SIVRA taught in this course is an enhanced version featuring a refined assessment system focusing on 21 risk factors for violence, grounded in the most recent research. It includes an improved user guide, along with supplemental materials such as an interview template and suggested interview questions. Users familiar with the previous version will find the new tool better organized, with clearer descriptions of risk factors and easier scoring.

This two-day certification course provides in-depth training on using the SIVRA tool and conducting a thorough and objective violence risk assessment process. Participants in this certification course will learn how to conduct an effective interview and gather information to evaluate an individual’s risk of harm to others using the SIVRA tool. Additionally, they will practice applying the SIVRA tool to videos demonstrating violence risk assessment interviews. NABITA’s expert faculty members will also discuss strategies for assessing credibility, how to phrase questions to probe for specific risk and protective factors, and how to gather information from collateral sources.

If you completed this training, formerly known as “Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA-35)”, we recommend re-enrolling to learn the revised tool and maintain industry standards and best practices

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

  • Tracks:

K-12 Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA)

Thursday & Friday, November 21-22, 2024 | 8:30am-4:30pm ET Both Days

Originally developed in 2012, the current version of SIVRA taught in this course is an enhanced version featuring a refined assessment system focusing on 21 risk factors for violence, grounded in the most recent research. It includes an improved user guide, along with supplemental materials such as an interview template and suggested interview questions. Users familiar with the previous SIVRA-35 will find the new tool better organized, with clearer descriptions of risk factors and easier scoring.

This two-day certification course provides in-depth training on using the SIVRA tool in K-12 settings. Participants will learn how to conduct an effective interview and gather information to evaluate an individual’s risk of harm to others using the SIVRA. Additionally, they will practice applying the SIVRA to videos demonstrating violence risk assessment interviews. NABITA’s expert faculty members will also discuss strategies for assessing credibility, how to phrase questions to probe for specific risk and protective factors, and how to gather information from collateral sources.

If you completed this training, formerly known as “K-12 Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA-35)”, we recommend re-enrolling to learn the revised tool and maintain industry standards and best practices.

Learn more about this certification course.

Register Today

  • Tracks:

Event Speakers

Linda Abbott, L.M.H.C.

Consultant, TNG & NABITA Advisory Board Member

Aaron L. Austin, Ed.D.

Consultant, TNG & NABITA Advisory Board Member

Tim Cason, M.Ed.

Vice President, NABITA; Senior Consultant, TNG & NABITA Advisory Board Member

Allyson Collins

Chris Fiorello, Ph.D.

Director of Wellness and Health Promotion, Seattle University

Mark Follman

Journalist and Author

Matt Greer

Eanes ISD Chief of Police

Alisha Carter Harris, M.S.

Senior Consultant, TNG

Jennifer Howes, Ph.D.

Chief Mental Health Director, Johns Hopkins University

Greg Lambeth, Ph.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist; Professor, University of Idaho

W. Scott Lewis, J.D.

Managing Partner, TNG & Chair, NABITA Advisory Board

Alicia Martinez Newell

Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Wichita State University

Makenzie Schiemann, M.S., Ph.D.

President, NABITA; Partner, TNG & NABITA Advisory Board Member

Saundra K. Schuster, M.S., J.D.

Partner, TNG; President, ATIXA; NABITA, Advisory Board Member

Scott Strader, Ph.D.

Director, Counseling Center – University of South Florida

Sydnee Zienta

Detective, Michigan State University Police and Public Safety

Location & Hotel

The NABITA Annual Conference with Pre- and Post-Conference certification courses will be held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, at 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Please note that the discounted room block has sold out at the Hilton West Palm Beach.

We now have a room block available at the Canopy by Hilton, West Palm Beach – Downtown! Click here to reserve your room at a discounted room rate. After the room block sells out or the group rate closes on October 17, NABITA cannot make special arrangements or assist in capturing discounted room rates.

Note: The Canopy by Hilton has a small electric shuttle that goes to the Palm Beach County Convention Center. The shuttle runs 12p-8p. The Canopy is alos about a 10 minute walk from the convention center.

Palm Beach County Convention Center is approximately a 10-minute drive from the Palm Beach International Airport. A shuttle service runs daily on a loop to and from the airport from 7am-7pm. Once you exit baggage claim and walk to the center median, you will see a sign that says Hotel/Motel Shuttles. Pickups at the airport are on the :00 and :30, and departures from the hotel are on the :15 and :45.

Meals

NABITA will provide a continental breakfast each morning, a mid-morning coffee and tea break, and an afternoon snack each day. Lunch and dinner are not included. There will be a welcome reception on Monday evening after the Opening Keynote. On Tuesday, lunch will be offered to Super Members and K-12 Professional Development Package holders.

Click here for more information on dining near the Hilton West Palm Beach.

Call for Proposals

The application period for concurrent session proposals has closed. Applicants will be notified by September 20, 2024.

Sponsors and Exhibitors

Sponsors can engage with attendees and form partnerships that extend beyond the conference. Likewise, exhibitors can share their products, services, and experiences with approximately 500 attendees.

For more information on sponsor and exhibitor opportunities, please reach out to conference@nabita.org.

Current Sponsors

ATIXA welcomes Maxient as our Opening Keynote Gold Sponsor. 

Maxient is a Charlottesville, VA based company whose sole focus is case management software.  Founded and staffed by former practitioners, their Case Manager software is the solution of choice at more than 1,000 colleges and universities across the United States and abroad.  Case Manager is used to maintain records for traditional student conduct, academic integrity, students of concern, behavioral intervention, Title IX, etc.  Retaining ~98% of its clients over 20 years in business, Maxient offers its entire software without modules, meaning all functions to assist with various case types is included.  Clients pay a single annual fee to have unlimited use for their campus.  Rapid response to phone and email help requests, 24/7 emergency support, and utilizing client feedback to inform product development are just a few of the ways Maxient sets itself apart. Visit www.maxient.com to request more information.

Awards

NABITA is accepting nominations for its Best Practices and Institutional Impact Award.

This award is intended to recognize a practice or program that can be modeled by other institutions as a best practice and has been shown to have a significant evidence-based impact on the originating institution. These practices or programs can be specific to the functioning of a BIT or serve to educate, provide interventions for, or reduce risk among target populations.

Practices and programs may be nominated, or program directors may apply on the program’s behalf. The selected institution’s team will be honored at the Conference and will receive a token worthy of display at the institution.

The application closed on September 6, 2024. Decisions will be emailed by September 20, 2024.

For questions, please email conference@nabita.org.

Communities

New this year, we are pleased to offer attendees affinity and community spaces at NABITA’s 16th Annual Conference. These spaces will allow attendees to build community, make connections, network, and exchange ideas. Groups will meet at the conference to discuss topics of mutual interest and set directions for future in-person and virtual connections.

Complete the community interest form here.

What are Affinity and Community Spaces?

Affinity Spaces provide space for attendees who share common identities to connect with others who can relate to their lived experiences. Affinity groups aim to:

  • Provide attendees with a shared identity space to connect, support one another, and share wisdom about navigating institutions as members of systematically marginalized groups.
  • Create spaces where members of a shared identity feel safe being their authentic selves.
  • Lower barriers to organizing and advocating for change within the BIT profession.

Please note you do not need to have a certain identity characteristic to join any group. All attendees are welcome and may participate as allies.

Community Spaces are resource groups to help professionals in the BIT field facilitate peer-to-peer exchange of current ideas and BIT issues. This in-person opportunity aims to:

  • Provide attendees with space to share ideas about the challenges within the BIT field.
  • Network for job opportunities.
  • Increase peer support for members in similar professions.

 

How do I participate?

As we get closer to the conference (about 1 week before the event), all affinity and community group offerings will be added to the attendee event app. You can view the list of groups and sign up to attend. Location and timing details of each group will be listed.

How do I become a group facilitator?

To become a group facilitator for either an Affinity or Community Space, please indicate so on your completed interest form. All group facilitators will be offered a $25 Visa gift card for their willingness to coordinate group meetings at allotted times, welcome group members, and facilitate meaningful discussions among the group. Please note facilitators are limited to one (1) per group.

Please reach out to conference@nabita.org for more information.

FAQs / Find Your Answers

The NABITA Annual Conference with Pre- and Post-Conference certification courses will be held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, at 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Please note that the discounted room block has sold out at the Hilton West Palm Beach.

We now have a room block available for our attendees at the Canopy by Hilton, West Palm Beach – Downtown! Click here to reserve your room at a discounted room rate. After the room block sells out or the group rate closes on October 17, NABITA cannot make special arrangements or assist in capturing discounted room rates.

Palm Beach County Convention Center is approximately a 10-minute drive from the Palm Beach International Airport. A shuttle service runs daily on a loop to and from the airport from 7am-7pm. Once you exit baggage claim and walk to the center median, you will see a sign that says Hotel/Motel Shuttles. Pickups at the airport are on the :00 and :30, and departures from the hotel are on the :15 and :45.

NABITA will provide a continental breakfast each morning, a mid-morning coffee and tea break, and an afternoon snack each day. Lunch and dinner are not included. There will be a welcome reception on Monday evening after the Opening Keynote. On Tuesday, lunch will be offered to Super Members and K-12 Professional Development Package holders.

Click here for more information on dining near the Hilton West Palm Beach.

Yes, discounts are available.

Registering for multiple courses or multiple participants is a great way to save. Registrations of two to four courses are eligible for a 15% discount, and five or more registrations qualify for a 25% discount.

Please create your order, click the “Pay Later” option upon checkout, and email conference@nabita.org to request that discounts be applied.

NABITA understands that circumstances change, and events may arise that prohibit your ability to attend training after you have registered.

Our cancellation policy is outlined below.

  • More than 3 months prior to event start date = 100% credit for up to 1 year minus a 15% or $99 processing fee, whichever is lower
  • More than 1-3 months prior to event start date = 75% credit for up to 1 year
  • More than 2 weeks-1 month prior to event start date = 50% credit for up to 1 year
  • Within 2 weeks of the event start date = forfeit registration fee (or training inclusion for Super Members/K-12 Professional Development Package holders

All credits will expire within one year from the date credit is given. Please refer to our event policy for more information.

No, your conference registration only allows you to attend Annual Conference sessions from November 18-20, 2024. You must separately purchase Pre-Conference certification courses taking place November 17-18, 2024, and Post-Conference certification courses taking place November 21-22, 2024.

Take advantage of our bundle and save offer. Enroll in a Pre-Conference or Post-Conference certification course and get a 20% discount on your Annual Conference registration. Additionally, you can register for two to four courses and receive a 15% discount, or register for five or more courses and qualify for a 25% discount. Please create your order, click the “Pay Later” option upon checkout, and email conference@nabita.org to request discounts be applied.

Your conference attendance will give you 12 continuing certification credits, which will renew any NABITA 2-year certification. Click here to learn more about CCCs.

NABITA has created a downloadable Supervisor Justification Letter template that you can customize and send to your supervisor to attend the conference and/or training courses!

Download the Supervisor Justification Letter Now!

Upon purchase completion, you will receive a registration confirmation email. You can access the NABITA Event Lobby at that time by logging in with your email address (no password is required).

If you enter your email address and the event lobby does not allow you access, or you gain access to the lobby, but it does not show the 2024 NABITA Annual Conference or courses, then you are not registered correctly.

Please contact NABITA at conference@nabita.org for assistance, or use the chat feature in the lower right-hand corner of this site.

Pre- & Post-Conference Training Courses:

Member Rate

One-Day Higher Ed. Certification Training:

  • Regular: $699
  • Last: $789

Two-Day Higher Ed. Certification Training:

  • Regular: $1,239
  • Last: $1,379

Two-Day K-12 Certification Training:

  • Regular: $589
  • Last: $649

Non-Member Rate

One-Day Higher Ed. Certification Training:

  • Regular: $879
  • Last: $969

Two-Day Higher Ed. Certification Training:

  • Regular: $1,549
  • Last: $1,699

Two-Day K-12 Certification Training :

  • Regular: $729
  • Last: $799

Multi-course discounts are available. Please create your order, click the “Pay Later” option upon checkout, and email conference@nabita.org to request discounts be applied.

16th Annual NABITA Conference

Member Rate:

  • Regular: $549
  • Last: $649

Non-Member Rate:

  • Regular: $699
  • Last: $799

All NABITA members receive preferred pricing on all NABITA events, trainings, and products. Individual and team-level memberships are available. Learn more about NABITA membership.

Conference attendees will receive 12 continuing certification credits (CCCs) that will renew any current 2-year NABITA certification.

Those attending a pre- or post-training course will receive a 2-year certification or 12 CCCs to renew a current certification.

Click here to learn more about CCCs.

The application period for scholarship applications has closed. Applicants will be notified by September 20, 2024.

Please note that your application only covers conference registration or training certification course registration. Flights, meals, hotel accommodations, and transportation are not included.

 

Yes, in-person and virtual conference sponsorship opportunities are available. School districts, institutions, businesses, and organizations are welcome to apply.

Sponsorship applications are due by Friday, September 15th. You will be notified via email by Friday, September 29th.

For more information on sponsor and exhibitor opportunities, please email conference@nabita.org.

The Annual Conference will not offer virtual attendance; however, virtual training and certification courses are available year-round. For a list of all upcoming training sessions, please click here.

NABITA would like to provide an update on our statement regarding our events located in states with inequitable laws. We have partnered with SocialOffset to offer summit attendees the opportunity to contribute to local organizations in West Palm Beach that make a difference in people’s lives, focusing on the issues of racial justice and LGBTQ+ equality. NABITA worked closely with SocialOffset to select two vetted charities that work towards our equity goals to help balance the scale. We invite you to use this campaign to offset any tax spending in West Palm Beach that doesn’t align with your values by supporting local charities that do. Click here to learn more and donate. NABITA will match all donations received up to $1,000.

All donations go directly to these vetted and pre-selected charities:

  • Compass Community Center: Compass Community Center has provided life-saving services to the residents of Palm Beach County and South Florida for 35 years. Their mission is to engage, empower, and enrich the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people and those impacted by HIV and AIDS. Click here to learn more about their work.
  • Side Project, Inc.: The mission of Side Project, Inc. is to promote social justice and social change by incubating and developing grassroots projects. They provide fiscal sponsorship and legal services to small nonprofits. Click here to learn more about their work.

Sure, that is always an option. However, SocialOffset provides the resources—that charities often do not have—to manage the tracking and reporting that associations want to see to understand if their campaigns were successful. The reporting runs through SocialOffset’s site, an administrative cost that NABITA has covered. 100% of your donations go to the selected charities. NABITA will also match all donations received via SocialOffset up to $1,000.

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