FSU ADAPT Hosts Administrative Professionals Day Panel Discussion

Apr 25, 2025 8:00 AM

adapt panel Frostburg State University’s Administrative Development and Professional Training (ADAPT) program hosted a panel discussion on April 23, Administrative Professionals Day, titled “In Conversation: Real Talk with Real Admins.” The event provided the current cohort of ADAPT participants and graduates of the program the opportunity to engage in a candid conversation with their administrative peers in the community to discuss topics, challenges and best practices related to the profession.

Donnell VanSkiver, FSU’s ADAPT program coordinator and executive administrative assistant to the president, noted “We were so pleased to offer this unique opportunity for administrative professionals to come together to foster relationships and build community.”

Prior to the start of the discussion, Frostburg Mayor Todd Logsdon welcomed the group and presented them with an official proclamation recognizing Administrative Professionals Day and administrative professionals for their positive contributions and dedication to the profession.

Panelists who volunteered their time to participate in the event included Wendy Durst, UPMC Western Maryland, executive assistant to the CEO; Ashley James, City of Cumberland, executive assistant to the city administrator; and Nicole Frost ’01, Allegany County Public Schools, executive assistant to the superintendent.

“Not only are our ADAPT participants and graduates continuing their personal and professional development journey, but our panelists were also able to stretch outside of their comfort zones and grow as well,” said VanSkiver. “We are proud to provide a space where admins feel seen and heard when they often feel invisible.”

FSU’s 9-month ADAPT program provides professional development opportunities to administrative professionals across campus and aims to enhance skills that support employee development and FSU’s strategic plan.

New last year was the first annual ADAPT Community Conference Series, a full-day educational experience addressing trending topics and challenges most relevant to administrative professionals, hosted by FSU. Tickets are on sale now for this year’s conference, scheduled for June 4.

Visit https://www.frostburg.edu/adapt/index.php for more information and to register for the event.

Pictured above: Kelly McDonagh, Toni Hathaway, Lori Kimble, Bridgette Karalewitz, Amandy Bucy, Elizabeth Taylor-Raley, Wendy Durst, Nicole Frost and Jennifer Chisholm