Finding Your Anchor During Unsettling Times
In times of uncertainty and change, leaders are often called upon to navigate uncharted waters while remaining steady and focused. In this keynote, Dr. Scott will explore how cultivating confidence, staying connected to your purpose, and embracing adaptability can help you anchor yourself amidst turbulence. Through personal insights and practical strategies, she will discuss how grounding yourself in your values and strengths not only fosters resilience but also enhances your leadership and professional growth. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of clarity and tools to navigate challenges with confidence and purpose.
About the Keynote
Dr. April Scott
Dr. April Scott currently serves as the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Wellbeing for Health and Wellbeing at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-M), reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs for Health & Wellbeing. In this role, Dr. Scott partners with stakeholders across University Health Services and Recreation and Wellbeing to guide efforts that enhance organizational climate, strengthen leadership development, and foster a culture of psychological safety and inclusion. She leads strategic initiatives designed to improve staff retention and engagement, increase access to quality health and well-being services, and develop training and policies that embed equity and student success as core values within Student Affairs.
With extensive experience driving organizational change in complex environments, Dr. Scott provides expert consultation, resources, and initiatives that promote health equity, well-being, and departmental efficiency. Her work ensures that all students—regardless of their backgrounds, identities, or experiences—have equitable access to high-quality health and well-being services.
Dr. Scott holds a B.S. in Psychology from Tuskegee University, an M.S. in Clinical Psychology from Barry University, and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Auburn University. She has worked across multiple settings, including substance abuse treatment programs, community mental health centers, a Veterans Affairs hospital, group practice, and university counseling centers. In addition to her administrative leadership, she has over 12 years of instructional experience, including working with special populations such as student-athletes and first-generation college students most recently serving as an adjunct instructor at the University of Baltimore in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Dr. Scott’s research interests include resilience, grief and loss, and diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizational settings.
