The Magic of S.A.M.S. (Student Affairs Moms): Powerful Stories of Mothers Working in Higher Education

What began as a small Facebook group created by Dr. Alexandria White to communicate with other mothers she knew working in Student Affairs quickly blossomed into a global and vibrant community with 8,000+ members. The Student Affairs MomS (S.A.M.S.) Facebook page has become a sanctuary for academic mothers from diverse backgrounds to share our stories, seek advice, and celebrate our victories. It has become a catalyst for change, a source of vital information, and a wellspring of sisterhood. This book came into existence to share the many profound stories that needed to be heard beyond our online community. Whether you are a mother working on a college campus, an ally looking to better understand and support your colleagues, or an institutional leader ready to embrace change, this book is for you. Together, we can build a higher education system that truly values and supports all who contribute to its mission. “Student Affairs Moms (S.A.M.S.) affirms for all of us that we each have a unique, messy story. … These stories affirm we are not alone–we are in sisterhood with others who truly understand what it is like to be ‘mothering’ and be in meaningful Student Affairs work in the context of our challenging institutions. Our individual stories have built a collective that is strong, bold, honest, and loving.” – Susan R. Komives, foreword