Podcast Host Launches Book Club for Student Conduct Experts

Emma Whitford, host of the "Just Desserts & Dissertations" podcast, launched a new book club on July 21, 2026, aimed at professionals working in student conduct. The inaugural meeting focused on the book "The Student Conduct Process: A Guide for Administrators" by R.K. W. Smith, exploring how conduct procedures affect students' sense of belonging on college campuses. This initiative seeks to foster deeper discussion and shared learning within the student affairs community.

The book club's formation stems from Whitford's observations during her podcast interviews, where the nuances of student conduct often emerged as a critical, yet sometimes overlooked, aspect of higher education. By creating a dedicated space for discussion, Whitford aims to provide a platform for practitioners to share insights, challenges, and best practices related to student conduct policies and their implementation. The club plans to delve into various texts and case studies relevant to the field.

Future sessions are expected to cover a range of topics, including restorative justice practices, Title IX implications in conduct cases, and the psychological impact of disciplinary actions on student development. The club's membership is open to anyone involved in student conduct administration, from university staff to external consultants. Whitford expressed her hope that the book club will become a valuable resource for professional development and community building within higher education.