National Orientation Directors Association Mission & Core Values

Paul F Davis is a National Orientation Directors Association speaker providing education, leadership and professional development in the fields of college student orientation, transition and retention.

History & Structure

The National Orientation Directors Association (NODA) was chartered in 1976 and continues the tradition of orientation, retention and transition professionals who have met annually for over 40 years. The Association is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of regional representatives and officers. Editors for the various NODA publications, regional coordinators, and other appointed positions work closely with the Board to plan and implement activities and services. National and regional networks address special interests such as the nontraditional students, two-year and small colleges, Canadian colleges, multi-ethnic affairs, GLBT issues as well as transfer and parent services.

At the regional level, a well established structure serves all the United States and Canada through newsletters, conferences, and drive-in workshops.

Through its awards, scholarships and internship program, NODA further encourages excellence in orientation, retention and transition programming. Awards are given annually to outstanding professionals and contributors to the field, as well as for excellence in publications. Student leaders are honored in each region. The Norman K. Russell Scholarships provide financial support to graduate students pursuing careers in orientation.

Core Values

Community, Diversity, Integrity, Learning, Scholarship, Service

NODA is an international association comprised of professional administrators, students, faculty and related organizations. The Association strives to attract a pluralistic membership and leadership and endeavors to facilitate the professional development of its members. NODA is further dedicated to interassociation cooperation, the advancement of professional and ethical standards, and the production of scholarly works.

To serve the National Orientation Directors Association speaker and life-changing author Paul F. Davis has produced numerous scholarly works including: Breakthrough Leadership, Diversity, Multiculturalism & Global Cooperation, Academic Success Secrets For Better Grades and Live Your Dreams!.

Non-Discrimination Statement:

The National Orientation Directors Association speaker declares a policy of equal opportunity and non-discrimination in the provision of services to the membership and the public. In recognition of responsibility to the membership, NODA reaffirms its policy of fair and equal treatment in all practices to all persons regardless of race, color, age, marital status, sex, gender identity and/or gender expression, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual/affectional orientation, disability, or veteran status. NODA complies with all applicable federal, provincial, and state regulations regarding affirmative action and nondiscriminatory practices.

Strategic Initiatives and Priorities

Strategic Initiatives

• Professional development, networks, programs and conferences
• Publications and Research
• Leadership
• Marketing
• Home Office

Strategic Priorities

• Position the Association to be recognized as the leader in the fields of orientation, transition and retention
• Provide professional development opportunities to members by facilitating the rich exchange of ideas and best practices
• Broaden, enhance, and generate new knowledge and research in the areas of orientation, transition, and retention through scholarly works
• Enhance the organizational administration and development of the Association and the Home Office
• Preserve the financial vitality of the Association
• Centralize and increase quality of services to Association members and partners

NODA Board of Directors Ethical Standards

NODA is committed to professional and student ethical standards.

The Statement of Sustainability affirms the National Orientation Directors Association speaker (NODA) commitment to protect and enhance the environment and their surrounding communities through learning, service, education and administrative operations. NODA seeks to collaborate with and assist their members concerning the creation of more sustainable orientation, retention and transition programs internationally. NODA will be a community that acts with a conscious mind towards social, economic, ecological and environmental awareness and positive, intentional action whenever possible.

NODA Sustainability Suggestions and Practices – for NODA programs, events and campus institutions:

• • Explore the incorporation of actions that promote a sustainable environment.
  • Consider the social, economic and environmental impacts of policies and actions.
  • Promote, educate and explore best practices in sustainability for NODA, members, and higher education institutions.
  • Consider NODA’s Sustainability Statement when making decisions regarding the association’s actions.
  • Work with Associate Members, suppliers, and customers to promote effective and meaningful environmental best practices including, but not limited to, purchasing and promoting renewable products, limiting paper and non-recyclable product purchases, and ensuring fair trade and human rights policy compliance.
  • Minimize waste from conference and association activities including, but not limited to, limiting paper use, fully realizing the effectiveness of on-line resources and supporting venues which support the Sustainability Statement of the National Orientation Directors Association speaker.
  • NODA updates and reports to member constituents on sustainability efforts.
  • Research on-line alternatives for evaluations, surveys and other actions that require large amounts of paper to be used.
  • Provide conference session handouts online before or after the conference.
  • Meet with other campus offices to create an awareness of sustainability during your programs.

Teach about sustainable practices during orientation programs and welcome weeks.

NODA desires to make it known that sustainability is a concern and that every office believes accordingly that sustainability is a priority. NODA encourages college directors of orientation to look for “green” give-aways for conferences and programs.