Today’s sessions are for beginners in the field or people looking to learn more about a new area.

F-1 for Beginners Workshop (Part 1)

This two-part workshop covers basics of the F-1 student status from initial status acquisition and maintenance to employment and practical training authorizations. This is nota NAFSA CEP, but offers audience members an overview of core concepts and regulations for F-1 students. Please only sign up if you will attend both parts (Monday from 9:00-11:00 AM and Tuesday from 2:00- 4:00 PM.

• Sonja Paulson, Assistant Director, Office of International Student & Scholar Services, Brown University
• Kayla Potter, International Student Advisor, International Scholars Office, Boston College
• Marisa Silva, International Student & Scholar Advisor, Tufts University

Date and Time: Monday, March 13, 9:00-11:00 AM & Tuesday, March 14, 2:00-4:00 PM
Session Recording: Not available

Key Immigration Concepts for Enrollment Management Professionals

Are you an admissions professional who works with international students, but does not handle the immigration or enrollment pieces and, like in the Wizard of Oz, wants to understand what goes on behind the immigration curtain? This fun and engaging session will address an overview of key immigration concepts, illuminate the common visa categories on which students can study, illustrate the way in which F-1/J-1 visas are obtained through the U.S. Consulates abroad and show how F-1/J-1 students maintain status within the U.S. We will take a look at some case studies and play some fun games as we go!

• Jessa Karki, Director of International Student Services, Champlain College
• Christy Fry, Assistant Director, ISSS, Middlebury College
• Keith Gallinelli, Director of International Admissions, Sacred Heart University

Date and Time: Monday, March 13, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Session recording available here. 

Intro to PR: Concepts and Terminology

This session will provide a basic overview of concepts and terminology related to permanent residence ("a green card"). The panel will explore some of the most common green card categories. We will also talk about the kinds of questions we get from international students and scholars, as well as the importance of understanding what matters fall within the scope of your responsibility as an advisor.

• Amanda Doran, Assistant Director, International Scholars Office, MIT
• Anthony Pawelski, Senior International Advisor,  Office for Global Professionals and Scholars, Mass General Brigham

Date and Time: Monday, March 13, 1:00-2:00 PM
Session recording available here.

Warm Welcome to the World of J-1

Designed for university based professional who do not currently advise J-1s (or possess only basic familiarity), but would like to learn more about working with incoming J-1 populations, this sessions aims to provide a "bird's eye view" of J categories, eligibility requirements, regulatory considerations, and practice notes.

• Katherine Knight, Senior Immigration Advisor, Dartmouth College
• Rachel Hollabaugh, Assistant Director of Comprehensive Advising, Northeastern University

Date and Time: Monday, March 13, 2:00-3:00 PM
Session recording available here. 

Today's sessions are focused on international student advising and F/J student topics.

Perspectives on Curricular Practical Training: Current Practices and Future Questions

This session will involve conversations from a variety of institutions regarding current CPT issues. We will delve into specifics about how they established CPT policies on their campuses, and managed CPT practices during the COVID 19 pandemic. We will also examine common issues and questions that students and campuses stakeholders raise and that international offices are expected to address, and how to manage these effectively. This is an advanced session.

• Elizabeth Capuano, Advisor to International Students & Scholars, Harvard University
• Claire Seely, International Students & Scholars Advisor, Smith College
• Jessa Karki, Director of International Student Services, Champlain College
• Ryan Kean, International Student Advisor, Boston University

Date and Time: Tuesday, March 14, 9:00- 10:00 AM
Session recording available here.

What Counts as "Normal Progress" toward Degree Completion? A Collegial Conversation

In this session, we will take a close look at "normal progress" toward degree completion. What tools do students and DSOs have when best-laid academic plans go awry? We will discuss definitions of full-time study, reduced course loads, leaves of absence, extensions, summer enrollment, and limits to online study. 

• Andrea Popa, Director, Office of International Student Affairs, Emerson College
• Morgan Keller, Director, Office of International Student Affairs, Wesleyan University
• Luca Lipparini,Senior Adviser, OISS, Yale University
• Heather J Shapazian, International Student Advisor, Bunker Hill Community College

Date and Time: Tuesday, March 14 10:00-11:00 AM
Session recording available here. 

J-1 Student Employment & Academic Training: Fundamentals and Beyond

This session will focus on the student employment and academic training provisions associated with the J-1 college and university student category, as well as an overview of the J-1 student intern program. While primary attention will be given to regulatory fundamentals, the presenters will also discuss various advising and policy nuances involved in approving employment and training related requests for these J-1 categories.

• Andrew Shiotani, Director International Center, Tufts University
• Briana Gerish, Advisor to International Students & Scholars, Harvard University
• Lizzie Siegle, International Student & Scholar Advisor, Tufts University
• Jingwen Yan, Associate Director, ISSO, Brandeis University

Date and Time: March 14, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM 
Session recording available here. 

F-1 for Beginners Workshop (Part 2)

This two-part workshop covers basics of the F-1 student status from initial status acquisition and maintenance to employment and practical training authorizations. This is nota NAFSA CEP, but offers audience members an overview of core concepts and regulations for F-1 students. Please only sign up if you will attend both parts (Monday from 9:00-11:00 AM and Tuesday from 2:00- 4:00 PM.

• Sonja Paulson, Assistant Director, Office of International Student & Scholar Services, Brown University
• Kayla Potter, International Student Advisor, International Scholars Office, Boston College
• Marisa Silva, International Student & Scholar Advisor, Tufts University

Date and Time: Monday, March 13, 9:00- 11:00 AM & Tuesday, March 14, 2:00-4:00 PM
Session recording: Not available

Today’s sessions are focused on more advanced topics, including sessions specific to international scholars and employment-based statuses.

Prevailing Wages: Current Issues and Challenges

This panel will discuss current issues relating to prevailing wage determinations, including problems stemming from recent DOL Job Zone and Education and Training Code assignments; delays in prevailing wage determination issuance by the National Prevailing Wage Center, and more. While a brief overview of prevailing wage concepts will be provided, this is intended for employment and permanent residence practitioners familiar with prevailing wage issues and challenges.

• Andrew Shiotani, Director, International Center, Tufts University
• Sarah Curry, Senior Assistant Director International Center, Tufts University
• Amanda Doran, Assistant Director, International Scholars Office, MIT
• Dena Neese, Attorney, Goss Associates

Date and Time: Wednesday, March 15, 10:00-11:00 AM
Session recording: Not available

Future of Work – Working Remotely and Out of Country – Policy and Discussion

This panel will focus on emerging issues for H's, O's, TN, J-1 and PERM remote work: Policy and Practice.

• Elizabeth Goss, Esq., Founder, Goss Associates
• Erin Gustafson, Senior Adviser, OISS, Yale University
• Sharon Ralston, Assistant Director for Scholar Services, Boston University

Date and Time: Wednesday, March 15, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Session recording: Not available

Featured Keynote: Jill Welch, The President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration

Jill Welch serves as a consultant and Senior Policy Advisor to the Presidents’ Alliance on international student and refugee learner issues. With more than two decades of experience advancing public policies that internationalize U.S. higher education, modernize the U.S. immigration system, and renew our democratic republic to advance for the common good for all, Jill specializes in public policy advocacy, strategic communications, public engagement, and public-private partnerships. She has served both inside and outside of government, most recently as Vice President of External Relations at the U.S. Institute of Peace and Deputy Executive Director for Public Policy at NAFSA: Association of International Educators. 
 

Date and Time: Wednesday, March 15, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Session recording available here. 

Overview: Consular Processing, Security Delays, and Extreme Vetting

This panel will outline the extra layers of screening that can occur for certain foreign nationals both at the consular level and with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP). Administrative processing, the DS-5535, and PP 10043 will be covered. A goal will be to cover best practices at the consular stage, an overview of issues that can occur with CBP, and a review on the merits of litigation.

• Anthony Pawelski, Senior International Advisor, Office for Global Professionals and Scholars, Mass General Brigham
• Mahsa Khanbabai, Esq., Founder Khanbabai Immigration Law
• Mandy Feuerbacher, Esq.

Date and Time: Wednesday, March 15, 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Session recording available here. 

Today’s sessions focus on issues that touch on the experiences of our clients in maintaining their status in the US, but are not strictly regulatory.

Your Nonresident Tax Guide – managing taxes from a school perspective

This session will give an overview of state and federal tax reporting requirements for non-resident international students and scholars. Discussion items will include: Who must file a 2021 U.S. tax return, what income forms students/scholars may receive, which forms need to be completed and sent to the IRS, what happens if students don't file or misfile and IRS stimulus payments. Important terms such as FICA, ITIN and 1098-T will be covered as well as time for your questions. We will also be providing information on how some students may be able to e-file their federal returns.

• Susan Shea, Associate Director, OISS, Boston College
• Colleen Callahan-Panday, Director, International Student Life, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
• Neil Duffy, Associate Vice President, Sprintax
• Elvera King, Relationship Manager, Sprintax

Date and Time: Thursday, March 16, 10:00-11:00 AM
Session recording available here.

Labor Issues and Unionization: The Intersection of Immigration and Employee Activism 

Join university administrators and immigration attorneys to discuss the impacts of labor action on international students and scholars. We will discuss what issues you should be aware of if workers organize on your campus and share some case studies. We will cover basic concepts of labor law in the context of immigration regulations. 

• Prasant Desai, Esq., Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C.
• Susan Ellison, Director, Office of Visa and Immigration Services, Dartmouth University 
• Richard Iandoli, Esq., Iandoli Desai & Cronin P.C.
• Kendall D. Isaac, JD, EdD, VP and General Counsel, Clark University 
• Susannah Marcucci, Director, ISSO, Clark University
• Patrick Trouve, HR Immigration & Compliance Specialist, Human Resources, University of Massachusetts-Lowell 
   

Date and Time: Thursday, March 16, 11:00-12:00 AM
Session recording available here.

Featured Keynote: Gaby Pacheco, TheDream.US

Maria Gabriela (“Gaby”) Pacheco is a nationally recognized immigrant rights leader. As an immigrant with a mix-status family, she’s experienced first-hand the intricacies and difficulties immigrant families face in the US. In 2006, Immigration and Customs Enforcement raided her home and attempted to silence her. Her parents and sister were put in deportation proceedings. Since the early 2000s, she’s been central to the advocacy of immigration and immigrant rights, and in 2010, with three other undocumented students, they led the Trail of Dreams, a four-month walk from Miami to Washington, DC. She is credited for spearheading the efforts that led to the announcement of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Date and Time: Thursday, March 16, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Session recording available here. 

When is an Activity Work? NIL and Passive Income

Beyond the traditional limitations of off-campus employment, international students increasingly have new potential "passive" income opportunities-- including opportunities through virtual and technological means-- which makes advising even more complicated. This session will discuss the challenges of passive income in our modern world of online influencers, crypto currencies, investments, capital gains, as well as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) benefits for international student-athletes.

• Kenneth Reade, Director, ISSS, University of Massachusetts Amherst
• Aaron Blumberg, Esq. Partner, Fragomen, Del Rey Bernsen & Loewry, LLP
• Neil Duffy, SPRINTAX
• Mary Walsh, Esq. Partner, Iandoli Desai & Cronin, PC

Date and Time: Thursday, March 16, 2:00-3:00 PM  
Session recording available here.

Today is a time to connect in a less structured way with others around certain interest areas. These roundtables will be hosted by a GRAC member and are a time to come with outstanding questions and current issues.

Get to Know Your Region XI Regbuds

Join this virtual session and meet your Region XI regulatory ombuds. Katie and Morgan will provide an overview of their RegBud roles, expectations, and resources and allow time for your questions.

• Morgan Keller, Director, Office of International Student Affairs, Wesleyan University
• Katie Ahlman, International Student & Scholar Advisor, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Date and Time: Friday, March 17, 9:00-10:00 AM
Session recording available here. 

Talking Taxes: Sharing Strategies and Navigating Nonresident Tax Resources

This roundtable is an opportunity to talk through the challenges of helping students and scholars navigate the US tax landscape and share resources. Join us to ask questions, talk about solutions, and think through some of your best practices to support nonresident tax filers on your campus.

• Caitlin Szymkowicz, Associate Dean for International Students & Scholars, Smith College
• Darryl Zeigler, Senior Advisor to International Students & Scholars, Harvard University
• Dawn Sedutto, Director, International Student Services, Southern New Hampshire University

Date and Time: Friday, March 17, 10:00-11:00 AM 
Session recording: Not available

Tell Me When It’s Over: COVID Accommodations

As the government winds down the COVID health emergency in many areas, international student and scholar advisors can expect the SEVP COVID guidance to come to an end. With little direction from immigration agencies, we don’t know exactly what the post-March 2020 guidance world will look like. New guidance? A hard reset to the old rules? Join us to discuss how your institutions are planning for this uncertain future. 
 

• Susannah Marcucci, Director, ISSO, Clark University
• Morgan Keller, Director, Office of International Student Affairs, Wesleyan University
• Katie Ahlman, International Student & Scholar Advisor, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Date and Time: Friday, March 17, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM 
Session recording: Not available

It’s Complicated: Compliance Conundrums

This roundtable is focused on discussion of various, specific compliance issues that F-1 and J-1 programs may experience. Guidance from policy memoranda or other government resources can be both confusing and vague. What kinds of compliance challenges is your office facing, and what are the considerations they have to make to ensure compliance while supporting students and scholars. Bring your questions so we can brainstorm together and make sure you have the tools to feel more confident!

• Elizabeth Capuano, Advisor to International Students & Scholars, Harvard University
• Amanda Doran, Assistant Director, International Scholars Office, MIT

Date and Time: Friday, March 17, 1:00-2:00 PM 
Session recording: not available

Keeping Up with Immigration in a One-Person/Small Office

Are you a one-person/small office charged with your institution's immigration compliance and 100 other things, whether internationally-related or not? Join us to talk about the challenges of maintaining immigration compliance in a one-person/small office, network with others who understand, and maybe walk away with some solutions and contacts to help you!

• Jessa Karki, Director of International Student Services, Champlain College
• Katharine Clair, International Student Advisor, OISS, Trinity College
• Maria Jenkins, Director, International Student Services, Boston Architectural College

Date and Time: Friday, March 17, 2:00-3:00 PM 
Session recording: Not available