Committee: Member Engagement Committee
Position: Member-At-Large
Term Dates: Two-year term
The Member Engagement Committee (MEC) is responsible for engagement of new and returning members and managing the portfolio of NAFSA Interest Groups (IGs). Members are appointed by the chair of the MEC.
Position updated August 2026.
NAFSA is not currently accepting applications for this position. Visit NAFSA Volunteer Leadership to learn about available opportunities.
Major Functions and Responsibilities
Within the framework of the NAFSA Strategic Plan, this position will:
- Welcome and engage new members with quarterly outreach and at engagement events and programs during the annual conference.
- Support knowledge communities and national committees with their member engagement activities.
- Manage the portfolio of Interest Groups, providing on-going support of the groups as appropriate throughout the year, and convening with leaders on a quarterly basis. Approve and dissolve Interest Groups according to the guidelines in the Guidance for Interest Group Leaders & Organizers.
- Complete reviews of Interest Groups in accordance with the Standing Rules. Offer guidance to IG leaders to improve group engagement activities.
Sample Projects
In recent years, MEC members-at-large have contributed to projects such as:
- Hosting quarterly, virtual welcome presentations for new NAFSA members
- Leading roundtable and pavilion discussions tailored to newcomers at the Annual Conference & Expo
- Supporting the Interest Groups throughout the year by attending Open Meetings and reviewing Annual Reports
Commitment
- Assure NAFSA membership through the length of the two-year, nonrenewable term.
- Prepare for and attend virtual NAFSA leadership and MEC meetings throughout the year. Meeting schedules will be determined collaboratively, with consideration given to accommodating committee members across multiple time zones, including those based outside the United States.
- Foster an inclusive environment in alignment with the NAFSA Diversity and Inclusion Statement
- Endeavor to attend meetings, events, and activities at the NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo
Qualifications
- Understanding of NAFSA and a strong overall knowledge of the structure of the association
- Knowledge of and ability to articulate as well as promote the benefits of being a NAFSA member
- Willingness to adopt organization-wide perspectives and MEC strategic priorities and to adopt association perspectives on member engagement
- Experience with strategic planning, management, networking, and delegation
- Strong coordination, analytical, oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work effectively with a team and with NAFSA staff in an outcomes-based environment
- Manage unconscious bias in the assessment and decision-making process
Desired Qualifications
- Previous volunteer experience in NAFSA, such as engagement with interest groups, regional leadership, knowledge communities, or committees
- Experience in public speaking, presentations, and marketing
Benefits and Appreciation
NAFSA appreciates its MEC volunteer leaders with a strategy that develops, celebrates, and supports them throughout the year:
- Each year, leaders in this role receive complimentary access to two NAFSA e-learning courses.
- Leaders in this role are invited to an invite-only appreciation reception at the NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo.
- Leaders in this role are asked to attend online and onsite leadership community gatherings throughout the year, with themes focused on the NAFSA International Education Professional Competencies 2.0.
- Leaders in this role are recognized with special signage at the NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo.
- Leaders in this role receive a discount on conference registration for the NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo in appreciation of their service.
