Information Technology (IT) undergraduate student, Tanushree Dhage, presented her first educational session as a National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) delegate of FSU’s Garnet & Gold Chapter at the annual National Association of College and University Residence Halls (NACURH) conference. This year’s conference, “Stepping Through the Looking Glass,” was hosted by Illinois State University (ISU) and encouraged attendees to explore bold ideas, visionary insights, and dynamic leadership.
The annual NACURH conference is the largest student-run conference connecting residence hall leaders from colleges and universities across North America. As an NRHH delegate of FSU’s Garnet & Gold Chapter, Dhage represented the top one percent of student leaders in residence halls for their service and leadership at FSU. Dhage’s role as a delegate at this conference included representing FSU’s NRHH chapter in boardroom sessions, attending presentations and educational sessions, participating in leadership development workshops, and showcasing her research to other student leaders in the field.
Dhage shared how powerful and inspiring it was to be surrounded by fellow student leaders who are just as enthusiastic about leadership, service, and making a difference. “Every session, every conversation, and every moment of connection made it clear that leadership is not about having a title; it is about being present, showing up for others, and constantly learning and growing.”
Dhage also took part in a full-day LeaderShape Inc. experience at the conference, where she explored how her personal values intersect with ethical leadership practices and who she wants to be as a leader. “As a student leader who is often focused on supporting others, it was a rare and valuable opportunity to reflect inward and invest in my own growth. I left with a renewed sense of clarity and purpose, and a deeper understanding of how to lead with authenticity, empathy, and courage,” Dhage said.
Dhage emphasizes leading with intention and heart in her educational session, “Listen Up! Level Up! Unlocking Your Leadership Superpower”. From her session, Dhage wanted her audience to understand that having a loud presence does not equate to great leadership. Instead, she highlights being an active and intentional listener who values interpersonal trust in a team setting.
“I know what it feels like to have your voice overlooked, and I never want others to feel that way. My goal was to help student leaders realize they have the power to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and understood,” Dhage said.
Dhage’s educational session was recognized as the “Top Education Session” and the “Top Case Study” at the NACURH conference. “To know that my session resonated with others validated the idea that leadership can come from a place of quiet strength and intentionality, and that topics like active listening deserve more attention in leadership spaces,” Dhage shared.
Lastly, Dhage was grateful to exchange ideas with student leaders across North America. She expressed that the diversity among the students reminded her of how influential the commitment to leadership can be, and how we are all united by building better communities on campus, regardless of where we come from.