Sandra Estanek, PhD, director of the CSPA master's program, received the 2005 Robert H. Shaffer Award for Academic Excellence as a GraduateFaculty Member from NASPA Region II.
In 2008, she received the Contribution to Scholarship award from the Jesuit Association of Student Personnel Administrators (JASPA).
In 2009, the Association for Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities established the Sandra M. Estanek, PhD Young Alumni Award in her honor.
In 2011, Dr. Estanek received the Annuit Coeptis senior professional award from ACPA: College Student Educators International.
 | |
| Sandra M. Estanek, PhD |
There are several aspects of the program that combine to make it unique.
Focus on Private Education
Along with a traditional preparation for student affairs practice at public institutions, students in the CSPA program develop an understanding of the diversity of private education in the United States. Because Canisius is a Jesuit, Catholic institution, students also learn to work in the context of Catholic higher education. As the list of our alums demonstrates, CSPA students are prepared to enter the profession at any college or university.
Practical Experience
As stated in the CSPA mission statement, the program highly values experiential education. Students in the program do two internships of 225 clock hours each. These internships are done at institutions in Western New York and throughout the country. Many students also hold graduate assistantships.
Professional Networking and Mentoring
Included in the tuition is the cost of attendance at the student affairs national conference in both years of students’ matriculation. The program covers the cost of annual membership, conference registration, travel, and hotel. Students only pay for their meals and incidentals.
We will be going to ACPA in Baltimore on March 25 - 30, 2011.
We do this because we take very seriously our role as mentors. It is very important to us to assist students to develop the professional networks that will sustain them in their careers. It is important as well to model our commitment to lifelong professional learning and development.
Jesuit Ideals
Jesuit institutions value cura personalis (“care of the person”). As a Jesuit, Catholic college, Canisius prepares intelligent, caring, faithful individuals able to pursue and promote excellence in their professions, communities, and service to humanity.
As you explore our website, please contact me if you have any questions about the CSPA program.
Sandra M. Estanek, PhD
Associate Professor & Program Director
estaneks@canisius.edu
