Presenter Bio - Donald Vanpelt, Jr.

Donald Vanpelt, Jr. currently serves at the Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement as Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida.

Donald is an experienced higher education administrator with nearly two decades of leadership in student affairs, organizational development, and student governance. Over the course of his career, he has advised hundreds of student organizations and executive student leaders, guiding them through issues related to governance, funding, risk management, freedom of expression, and compliance. His leadership has been pivotal during moments of campus activism, organizational crises, and major programmatic growth. He has helped implement comprehensive policies and training systems to reduce liability and elevate student accountability, particularly in the areas of financial stewardship, hazing prevention, contract management, and constitutional alignment.

As a presenter, Donald brings real-world case studies, actionable strategies, and legal insight to help advisors and student leaders proactively avoid common missteps. His sessions are informed by his lived experience and professional expertise, empowering attendees to navigate the legal and ethical responsibilities of leading student organizations in today’s complex campus climate.

In his role as the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, he provides strategic oversight for Student Engagement, including Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Government, Registered Student Organizations, First-Generation Student Success, Student Media, and Leadership and Service programs.

A native of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Donald began his professional journey at Arkansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Master’s in College Student Personnel Services. He later completed an MBA at Florida Atlantic University. His educational background, combined with frontline experience supporting student-led initiatives, uniquely positions him to understand both the developmental and operational complexities facing student organizations.

Donald is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. He joined the Theta Upsilon Chapter in Spring 2006 and remains actively involved as a general member. His commitment to student development and civic engagement continues to shape his holistic, justice-centered approach to campus leadership.