In a new national leadership role with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), Dr. Joy Hoffman is bringing her passion for community-building, leadership development and service to colleagues across the country.

Hoffman was recently appointed to a two-year term as co-coordinator of AASCU’s Spouse/Partner Program, a nationwide network that supports, connects and elevates the spouses and partners of college and university presidents and chancellors. The program’s mission is to highlight the vital role of presidential spouses and partners and to offer leadership development and skill-building opportunities for those serving in these essential positions.

With more than two decades of experience in higher education — much of it spent in student affairs — the Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College first spouse appreciates being part of supporting and empowering communities.

“I’m looking forward to connecting spouses and partners, providing resources and coordinating meaningful programs,” Hoffman said. “The AASCU Spouse/Partner Program has become a new professional home for me — a community I didn’t know I needed.”

Guiding the program’s growth and impact, Hoffman will serve with co-coordinator Darlene Repollet, first spouse at Kean University in New Jersey and someone Hoffman has worked with on AASCU committees for two years.

“From the moment Joy joined the AASCU Spouse and Partner Program, she has been a dedicated and active participant, generously sharing her full energy, ideas and expertise,” Repollet said. “I am thrilled to partner with Joy as co-coordinator, and I have no doubt that her creativity and strategic insights will elevate the program to new heights.”

Hoffman and Repollet will focus on expanding participation, strengthening engagement and fostering a strong sense of belonging for spouses and partners across diverse institutional contexts.

“The program offerings invite them to share their expertise, relevant information, feedback and ideas, and help us create meaningful programming” — Dr. Joy Hoffman

“Our presidential spouses and partners have a variety of personal and professional experiences, all of which serve as valuable resources,” Hoffman said. “For example, some of our members serve on a curriculum design committee and/or an annual conference planning committee. The program offerings invite them to share their expertise, relevant information, feedback and ideas, and helps us create meaningful programming.”

To the AASCU role, Hoffman also brings her expertise as an independent diversity and equity consultant, trainer and facilitator helping professionals and organizations make sustainable and measurable changes.

“Joy has always had a unique ability to listen and engage, helping students and colleagues tell their stories and become the best versions of themselves.” — Dr. John L. Hoffman

“Joy has always had a unique ability to listen and engage, helping students and colleagues tell their stories and become the best versions of themselves. That work naturally led her into nationally recognized leadership roles for student affairs professionals working at colleges and universities,” said President John L. Hoffman. “For nearly four years, the presidency at BSU and NTC has been a shared commitment for Joy and me, and she has been an active partner in lifting up and honoring the stories of our students and alumni. I’m excited to once again see her in a national leadership role that grows directly from the impact of her work for BSU and NTC, for our community, and for me.”

AASCU represents more than 500 public colleges, universities, and systems collectively educating nearly 4.9 million students nationwide. Working with diverse institutions requires both respect for local context and a shared commitment to the public mission of higher education.

“What works at a large research institution may not work as well at BSU or NTC, but the concept might be adaptable,” said Hoffman. “I often share ideas in the context of intended outcomes versus specific programmatic pieces. I love sharing what BSU and NTC are doing with education and industry partners, innovative programs and faculty and staff engagement. Our faculty and staff are so creative. The programs they envision and develop are outstanding, and they often utilize community connections and resources to be fiscally responsible.”

On the national stage and at home in Bemidji, Hoffman is one of BSU and NTC’s most enthusiastic champions, known for her affection for Bucky the Beaver, her unwavering support for Beaver athletics and her presence at student-centered events across campus.

Hoffman said she especially appreciates meeting alumni and hearing about their journeys, their success stories and how they pay it forward in the region and beyond.

“Many of our alums speak to something special about their time here, and most point to BSU and NTC giving them a chance,” said Hoffman. “Alumni reminisce about campus staff and faculty members who made adjustments to ensure their success. I’ve heard everything from a professor voluntarily tutoring a student in a class they were failing to a department that modified an exam date so a student could graduate early to start a job in the Twin Cities. Our community is highly committed to delivering on our promise of an exceptional education.”

In addition to consulting and the AASCU position, Hoffman volunteers with the United Way and Boys & Girls Club in Bemidji.