GENERAL SESSION Teaching and Learning

A Journey to Excellence

In 2024, the Alamo Colleges District became the only community college system in the nation to be awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award twice in award history, after previously winning the award in 2018. The Alamo Colleges District is located in the heart of San Antonio, America’s fastest-growing city— and one of its most impoverished—and remains focused on achieving its moonshot of ending poverty in the greater San Antonio area through education and training. Chancellor Dr. Mike Flores will highlight how Alamo Colleges District uses the Baldrige framework to meet students where they are and take them on the next step of their educational journey.

Mike Flores, Chancellor, Alamo Colleges

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Affordable AI: No-Cost Interactive Prompts for Building Resumes, Crafting Cover Letters, and Enhancing Interview Skills

This interactive workshop introduces no-cost AI prompts for effectively enhancing student career readiness. Participants will explore tools that deliver personalized feedback on resumes and cover letters, enhancing the clarity and impact of job application materials while encouraging students to critically evaluate their work. You will also engage in hands-on testing of STAR-method-based prompts for structured interview preparation and learn to craft customized, no-cost prompts tailored to your institution’s needs, without having to use expensive AI-powered platforms. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and resources to scale personalized feedback, making this session ideal for career services professionals, faculty, and staff.

Cary Green, Administrative Agricultural Chair, Agriculture, Ivy Tech Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

AI in ESL – Friend or Foe?

Situation: ESL instruction, adult learners, community college. Dilemma: Implementing AI in the classroom – to do or not to do? If yes, to which extent? And for what purpose? Am I making myself, the instructor, obsolete? Are my students guinea pigs or pioneers?This presentation offers answers to these questions by sharing firsthand experiences of AI implementation in a Community College ESL classroom with high intermediate learners. It explores the transformative role of AI in language teaching and learning, addressing some of its many advantages and challenges.

Sonja Rodiger, Instructor, ESL, Hudson County Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

AI Integration with Course Materials to Support Adaptive Learning

This session explores how LearningClues, a generative AI platform created at the University of Michigan, supports student learning by enabling continuous reflection on course topics. LearningClues creates questions based on class discussion and aligns each question with course-specific learning objectives. LearningClues provides students with questions to answer after class and tracks students’ proficiency scores, helping them focus their study efforts. The platform ingests course materials—captions from course videos, documents in the course LMS, and syllabi—ensuring the AI-generated support remains grounded in course context. Findings from faculty and student usability studies will highlight how this approach has fostered deeper engagement and more targeted learning in pilot courses. Join us to discuss how adaptive learning can enhance student reflection while supporting institutional learning goals.

Perry Samson, Professor, Engineering, University of Michigan

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Aligning Trauma-Informed Pedagogy with UDL in the Community College Classroom

Trauma often simmers beneath the surface of the college classroom and can prevent students from engaging with coursework, participating in class activities, and achieving their goals. The principles of trauma-informed pedagogy (TIP) seek to mitigate these negative effects for students and create more welcoming learning environments for those dealing with difficult life circumstances. Community college faculty and staff are often uniquely poised to apply TIP principles and positively impact students’ lives and promote student success. Designed for faculty working in any discipline, this session will provide attendees with examples of trauma-informed teaching practices from a first semester writing course and demonstrate how those practices align with the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL).

Kell Wisdom, Instructor, English and Humanities, Mitchell Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Amplifying Teacher Voice: Partnering with AI in ESL Education

Join this interactive campfire session as we explore one ESL educator's transformative journey with AI. Rather than a traditional presentation, this facilitated dialogue will engage participants in thought-provoking discussions about redefining faculty-AI relationships. Through live AI demonstrations, interactive QR code surveys, and guided reflections, we will collectively examine how AI can restore creative agency to educators feeling constrained by standardized curricula. Participants will contribute to a real-time exploration of ethical frameworks, implementation challenges, and the evolving faculty role in AI-enhanced ESL instruction. Come ready to question assumptions and reimagine possibilities.

Lisa Devoe, Faculty, CE Languages Department, Division of College Readiness; Mercedes Wilson-Everett, Lead Faculty, CE Languages Department, Division of College Readiness

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Art and the AI Monster: A Creative Partnership

AI is rapidly transforming the digital arts with tools that create realistic images and videos, translate between artistic styles, and generate new works. In this session, we will explore whether AI is a scary monster or an innovative creative tool and its impact on education and creative professions. This session is designed with creative professionals in mind, but the content is engaging, informative, and enjoyable for everyone. All are welcome to join and engage in the conversation."Art and the AI Monster: A Creative Partnership" has been featured at NISOD in Austin, Texas, and the Trends Conference in Muskegon, Michigan, in 2024, as well as at St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron, Michigan, in 2025.

Sarah Flatter, Professor, Fine Arts, Visual, and Performing Arts, St. Clair County Community College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Artificial Intelligence and Cheating: Elevating Instructional Practices and Academic Integrity

In this session, participants will be involved in a series of interactive activities designed to enhance their understanding and application of AI tools in education and how it affects academic integrity issues. Hands-on demonstrations of popular tools like ChatGPT and Magic School AI will allow participants to experience how these tools generate content and mimic human writing to explore the capabilities and limitations of AI. Turn-and-talk conversations will enable participants to discuss the ethical use of AI, its impact on academic integrity, and common cheating practices. Role-playing scenarios will provide practical experience in identifying AI-generated content, implementing effective instructional strategies to uphold academic integrity in real-life classroom situations, and sharing / developing strategies to promote academic honesty.

Talia Cotton, Adjunct Professor / Virtual Instructor, GED, English, and Education, Tallahassee State College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Assessing the Impact of an Artificial Intelligence Tool on Student Interview Self-Efficacy

Increasingly institutions are tasked with an array of choices of products and services. Community colleges are in a unique space to connect with academic and workforce development initiatives. Institutions may leverage this privileged position to undertake thorough pilot projects to assess the efficacy of emerging technology. This session will detail a structured process for evaluating AI tools for adoption in instructional and administrative work. In addition, this session provides an overview of a pilot project that assessed the impact of student interaction with an artificial human resource tool that simulates the interview process.

Robyn Bryce, Manager, Special Projects, Division of Instruction, Yavapai College; Richard Pierce, Manager, Client Relationship, ITS, Yavapai College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

B is for Belonging: Building & Bonding Activities

The session dives into the importance of fostering belonging among college students and offers practical strategies for achieving it. Through engaging activities including icebreakers, competitive group games, and exploration assignments, you will grasp the importance of belonging, share experiences with peers, and explore methods to promote inclusion. You will also gain valuable insights into best practices for enriching your classes by integrating resources that support student engagement and empowerment. Come discover practical strategies to cultivate a culture of belonging where every student feels valued and connected, both academically and personally.

Rosena Beniste, Associate Professor, Communication, Broward College

BREAKOUT SESSION Community and Workforce Partnerships

Beautify the Brazos: A Collaborative Partnership to Improve Water Quality Resources and Water Education

In 2022, a multi-faceted collaboration in Waco, Texas between local government, educational institutions, non-profits, and other private entities developed to improve understanding of water quality in the Brazos River and provide education to local students and the public regarding local water quality metrics. This collaboration, known as Beautify the Brazos, has evolved into a multi-year scalable project that offers local community college students the opportunity to engage in data collection and learn more about Waco’s natural resources while helping the City of Waco collect water quality data and meet permitting requirements. Beautify the Brazos demonstrates the importance and value of developing and maintaining collaborative relationships between faculty and local partners to enhance the classroom experience and student learning.

Michaela McCown, Associate Professor, Environmental Science, McLennan Community College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Leadership and Governance

Beyond Restriction: The AI Leadership Compass for Higher Education

Higher education leaders can either restrict AI and stay stuck—or reframe AI as a tool for transformation. In this interactive make-and-take workshop, participants will explore the AI Leadership Compass, a strategic framework designed to guide institutions in embracing AI while protecting what matters most, the human elements of teaching and learning.Each direction of the compass focuses on a core priority—from automating busy work to expanding faculty-student potential; from preserving mentorship to re-centering human connection. Through guided discussion, participants will learn to shift from reactive policies to intentional AI adoption strategies that enhance—not replace—student success and faculty impact. Attendees will leave with a fresh mindset, a digital toolkit, and a framework they can immediately use to shape meaningful change at their institutions.

Krista Hanna, Instructor, Business, Coffeyville Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Beyond the Classroom: A Collaborative Approach to the Pedagogy of Care

Student success is more than grades – it fosters a sense of belonging, well-being, and resilience. Beyond the Classroom explores how a collaborative approach between faculty, the Advocacy Department, and Faculty Development can holistically create care that supports students. The session will provide actionable strategies for integrating care-based pedagogy, connecting students to critical resources, and incorporating a compassionate syllabus and pedagogy that promotes academic success and well-being.

Jillian Denman, Director of Student Advocacy, Student Advocacy Center, San Antonio College; Lucinda Gonzales Flores, Faculty Development Specialist, Faculty Development, Alamo Colleges District

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Boost Student Engagement With Three Low-Prep, High-Energy Active Learning Techniques

Transform your teaching with the power of dual coding, a highly effective learning strategy that uses both visual and verbal cognitive systems to improve memory retention. We will collaborate on three low-prep, high-energy activities inspired by classic books. Next, we will brainstorm how to customize the activities for your course content. Faculty will leave this fun-filled session inspired and energized with fresh teaching ideas.

Kathy Anderson, Managing Associate, Supplemental Instruction, Instructor, Psychology, Tarrant County College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Boosting Attendance and Engagement in the Classroom: Strategies for Active Learning

In this interactive session, we will explore dynamic, student-centered approaches to lectures that drive both attendance and engagement. Drawing from personal experience teaching computer science, activities and strategies that encourage students to engage with the material, collaborate with peers, and take ownership of their learning will be shared. Participants will share experiences and explore how to apply these strategies across various disciplines. Whether you are looking to revamp your approach or gather new ideas, this session offers a collaborative environment for exchanging practical tips that will keep students engaged and excited to show up to class.

Ginnette Serrano-Correa, Faculty, Computer Science, Collin College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Boosting Performance Management at Your College

Looking for ways to motivate and engage employees? This session will provide evidence-based techniques and skills that supervisors can apply to enhance the performance management process in higher education. Join this interactive session to review and exchange best practices on providing feedback and recognition, setting goals, conducting performance appraisals, and more.

Dianne Valdivia, Director, Campus Administration, Adjunct Professor, Social Sciences, Miami Dade College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Bridging the Gap: Department Chairs as Change Agents in the Shift to Eight-Week Terms

As community colleges adopt compressed eight-week terms to enhance student success, effective communication becomes essential for faculty buy-in and instructional adaptation. This session explores research on the pivotal role of department chairs as mid-level leaders in facilitating formal and informal communication during the transition. Grounded in Rogers’ diffusion of innovation theory and Lewis’s stakeholder model of change communication, the discussion will provide practical strategies for institutional leaders to support department chairs in guiding faculty through change. Attendees will gain insights into fostering collaboration, reducing resistance, and enhancing instructional effectiveness in accelerated course formats.

Amanda Melniczek, Doctoral Student, Community College Leadership, North Carolina State University

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Bring to Life Your Library: Growing A Learning Commons

This presentation focuses on enhancing a community college library by making it more engaging and interactive. We will discuss how to increase awareness through targeted marketing efforts, promoting library services and events. Next, we will discuss ways to boost campus engagement among students, faculty, and staff through a variety of activities, including social gatherings, team-building exercises, academic events, cultural immersion, and initiatives focused on mental and physical health. Finally, the presentation emphasizes the importance of measuring success by tracking participation and feedback, with an eye toward planning future improvements and growth. Ultimately, the goal is to create a vibrant, dynamic library space that fosters campus involvement and supports educational and well-being initiatives.

Barbara Buchanan, Vice President, Instruction / Chief Academic Officer, Piedmont Community College; Walter Montgomery, Dean, Learning Commons and Educational Partnerships, Piedmont Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Building AI Self-Efficacy in an Online Course

Artificial intelligence tools are changing the way we work and learn. Instructors and instructional designers are at a critical juncture (again) for integrating new technologies into teaching and learning. This session explores a case study of a course redesign that considered “How many assignments can I integrate AI into?”

Richard Pierce, Manager, Client Relationship, ITS, Yavapai College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Championing Change: Mentorship Initiatives for Black Male Student Success

This training session aims to equip faculty, staff, and potential mentors with the knowledge and skills necessary to support Black male students in colleges and universities. Participants will explore the unique challenges faced by these students and learn effective mentorship strategies to enhance their academic performance, social-emotional well-being, and overall persistence. Through an interactive module, attendees will gain insights into cultural competency, effective communication, and relationship-building techniques. The session will also provide a framework for implementing and sustaining mentorship programs, ensuring that mentors can make a lasting positive impact on their mentees. By the end of this session, participants will be prepared to create a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters the success of Black male students, ultimately contributing to higher retention and graduation rates.

Christopher Carter, Dean, Health and Human Services, Renton Technical College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Communicating for Successful Connection

The ability to effectively communicate has long been a highly desired skill in the professional marketplace. This interactive workshop will look at the role that speaking, listening, and understanding play in building meaningful connections between people and ideas. Participants will be introduced to and practice techniques for effective public and interpersonal communication in a fun and supportive environment. This session is applicable for anyone, faculty or administrator, who wants to strengthen their communication and networking skills.

Heather Elmatti, Professor, Speech / Communication, Lake-Sumter State College; Toni Upchurch, Associate Professor, Speech / Communication, Lake-Sumter State College

BREAKOUT SESSION Community and Workforce Partnerships

Connecting Classroom to Community: Service-Learning Opportunities in the Liberal Arts

Service-learning is a form of experiential learning that integrates community engagement into the curricula of academic courses. This panel will provide an overview of successful service-learning projects at Austin Community College across the liberal arts and related fields, from Composition to Social Psychology to Business and Technical Writing. We will share sample projects and assignments while answering questions about student engagement from experienced faculty.

Brinda Roy, Professor, Composition and Literary Studies, Austin Community College; Christopher Rzigalinski, Service-Learning and Community Engagement Specialist, Managing Editor, ACC’s A Collaborative Culture magazine, Austin Community College; Louisa Spaventa, Adjunct Professor, Instructional Associate, Composition and Literary Studies, Austin Community College; Alexandra Watkins, Professor, Program Coordinator, Technical Communications, Austin Community College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Contextualizing Writing Instruction for Student Majors and Career Goals

In this session, we will work together to tailor writing assignments to align with students' majors and career goals. By contextualizing writing assignments, instructors can make learning more interesting and useful. We will explore ways to bring in writings that are about possible career choices and match real work settings while learning how AI tools can support this process. Attendees will gain insights into using AI to create customized, meaningful writing assignments that get students ready for their future jobs.

Debbie Audilet, Faculty, English, Craven Community College

PRECONFERENCE SEMINAR Teaching and Learning

Creating Engaging Assignments With AI: Hands-On Strategies for Effective Assignments

Discover innovative ways to invigorate your curriculum with the transformative power of generative AI in higher education. This workshop explores how generative AI, which creates unique content from trained data, can revolutionize curriculum design, assignment creation, and student engagement. Beyond its practical applications, generative AI represents a significant paradigm shift in teaching and learning. Learn how to harness AI to create more engaging and personalized learning experiences while preparing students for a future shaped by AI technologies. Gain practical skills for integrating AI into your teaching practices through hands-on activities. Join this workshop to engage in a critical conversation about the future of education and equip yourself and your students for the digital age ahead.

Tim Mousel, Professor, Kinesiology, and Department Chair, Chemistry, Kinesiology, and Physics, Lone Star College

BREAKOUT SESSION Equitable Opportunity and Outcomes

Creating Inclusion by Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Neurodiverse Learners

Participants will acquire an understanding of various neurodivergent conditions and mental health challenges that can impact learning, behavior, and academic performance. Additionally, participants will learn techniques for creating a sense of belonging, building rapport with students, and promoting open communication. The importance of mental health awareness, supporting students in distress, and utilizing campus resources is essential to the increasing mental health needs of most students, but especially for those who are most impacted by the challenges of neurodiversity. Through interactive activities and discussions, participants will be ready to apply these new concepts and create a learning environment that promotes academic success and well-being for all students.

Fonda Ginsburg, Instructor, English, College of Lake County

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Data-Driven Feedback and Project-Based Learning: Research Insights from the Sail() Platform

Project-Based Learning (PBL) holds great promise for improving student outcomes in computing education, but its implementation in community colleges faces significant challenges. This session presents findings from our 4-year NSF-funded research project, "Social and Interactive Learning at Community Colleges: Investigating Data-driven Feedback for Improving Student Outcomes with Project-Based Learning." We discuss how data-informed teaching and advanced autograder design support both instructors and students in effectively implementing PBL. The session will share research insights on student retention, instructor strategies for improving engagement, and design improvements that reduce barriers to learning. Participants will leave with evidence-based strategies for incorporating PBL and automated feedback tools into their own courses to enhance student success.

Christopher Bogart, Systems Scientist, Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University; Adam Zhang, Data Scientist, Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University

CAMPFIRE SESSION Leading From the Middle

DATA-Driven Leadership at the Department Chair Level

Having served as a department chair for 5-1/2 years, in this presentation I will share personal experiences (many of which were acquired during a consequential and volatile span between 2019-present) that shaped my philosophy on the direction and duties of a department chair. Using data to inform my decisions is at the heart of what I do as a department chair. I will share how I use data to inform my decisions and discuss important soft skills that form the core of how I have led my department: Dependability, Accountability, Transparency, and Advocacy (DATA).

Steven Richardson, Department Chair, Mathematics, York Technical College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

DIY Pedagogy: Using Zines to Enhance Teaching and Learning

Looking for an innovative, engaging, hands-on, creative project to incorporate into your classes? Zines are small-circulation, DIY magazines. Incorporating zines into your curriculum can enhance student engagement, creativity, and critical thinking. In this make-and-take workshop, you will discover how zines can serve as a platform for students to express diverse perspectives and experiences and demonstrate knowledge across disciplines. You will also create a zine using the tools and supplies we provide. Finally, you will collaborate with other attendees to plan a zine assignment for a course you teach. Express yourself and have fun with art! No prior art experience is necessary.

Rachel McDermott, Associate Professor, English, Palm Beach State College; Liz Silva, Tutor, English and Psychology, Palm Beach State College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Dual Credit Instructor Identity: Are We High School Teachers or College Professors? A Toolkit

Dual credit instructors face the challenge of maintaining college-level rigor while supporting high school students' transition to higher education. This session equips instructors with strategies to bridge the gap, ensuring students develop critical thinking, study skills, and academic confidence. With a diverse student population—including first-generation and Gen Z learners—effective scaffolding and engagement techniques are essential. Additionally, institutions expect dual credit courses to meet college-level standards, making alignment with accreditation and instructional best practices crucial. By providing practical tools to balance rigor and support, this session helps instructors improve student retention, foster independent learning, and enhance overall program success. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to implement immediately, ensuring their courses challenge students while setting them up for long-term academic achievement.

Tina Bausinger, Faculty Fellow, Faculty Development, Palo Alto College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Student Success and Retention

Dual-Credit, Dual-Cultures: Using Student Voices to Help Navigate Dual Roles in High School and College

How do students experience the dual cultures of high school and college? In this session, attendees examine what students have reported to be the most significant differences between high school and college culture and what they wish they had known about the college environment when learning in both environments. Participants reflect on the student perspective provided and share their observations about challenges facing dual-credit and recent high school graduates. This session is intended for faculty and staff who work with this population.

Laura Overstreet, Adjunct Professor, Sociology, Weatherford College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Effective Active Learning Practices to engage all learning styles

The session will begin with a review of Kolbe's learning theory, after which participants will take a brief quiz to assess their learning styles. Vygotsky's social interaction theory and Piaget's active learning methodologies will be explored. Various active learning activities will be demonstrated and discussed with the course participants. This session will help the educator develop rubrics for active learning and provide helpful peer-centered feedback. Educators can apply this information to in-person and online learners. In addition, educators will learn to engage students and promote a positive and dynamic learning environment. Learners will participate in one of the active learning exercises presented in the course.

Cynthia Johnson, Associate Professor, Dental Health, Community College of Rhode Island

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Elevate Teaching with AI Tools: Create, Collaborate and Connect in the Classroom

Are you curious about using AI but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. In this breakout session, we will explore how artificial intelligence can be a powerful teaching assistant—not a replacement—helping educators like you save time, boost creativity, and increase student engagement. This practical and empowering session will show you exactly how to use AI tools to streamline lesson planning, spark classroom collaboration, and personalize learning experiences. Whether you are tech-savvy or tech-cautious, you will walk away with easy-to-implement strategies that make your teaching more effective and less stressful. We will cover real classroom examples, free and easy-to-use AI tools, and time-saving tips to help you work smarter—not harder. You will also learn how AI can elevate both teaching and learning.

Marsha Hudson, Retired Professor, English, Wharton County Jr. College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Embedded Tutoring at Austin Community College: Next-Level Academic Support for Online Students

Looking for ways to better support online students? Needing to increase online student persistence, course completion, and success? Come and learn about the Embedded Tutoring Program at Austin Community College! Learn the history and current state of the program, hear about our challenges and successes, along with wise practices and lessons learned. Then, engage in a guided brainstorm session about ways that you might advocate for and implement embedded tutoring at your institution. See you there!

Ellie Connell, Tutoring Specialist, Online Learning Lab / Embedded Services, Austin Community College; Catherine C Wadbrook, Tutoring Specialist, Online Learning Lab / Embedded Services, Austin Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Empowered to Lead: Inspire Students, Prevent Burnout, and Reignite Your Passion for Teaching

Teaching is more than delivering content—it is leadership in action. Today’s educators are expected to inspire, guide, and lead students while juggling growing demands, which often leads to exhaustion and burnout. This empowering session is designed to help teachers reconnect with their passion, step into their leadership role with confidence, and create a positive classroom culture without draining their energy.We’ll explore how to lead with purpose and influence, even in high-stress environments. Educators will learn strategies to inspire the next generation through connection, consistency, and compassion—while also protecting their time, energy, and mental well-being. Through practical tools, reflection activities, and group discussion, participants will gain a renewed sense of purpose and leave with actionable strategies to stay motivated, avoid burnout, and lead with intention.

Marsha Hudson, Retired Professor, English, Wharton County Jr. College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Empowering Adjunct Faculty: Effective Evaluation and Development for Student Success

This session provides academic leaders, faculty developers, and institutional decision-makers with actionable strategies for enhancing adjunct faculty support. By understanding the connection between faculty development and student outcomes, participants will be better equipped to create and sustain supportive environments for adjunct faculty.

Kate Szetela, Manager, Adjunct Faculty Support, Academic Affairs, College of DuPage

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Empowering Diverse STEM and Business Students: Technology-Enhanced Pedagogy in a Universal Design Framework  

This session offers actionable strategies for nontraditional, immigrant, and first-generation STEM and Business students in online environments to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Participants will explore technology tools within a Universal Design Framework to promote accessibility and engagement. The session provides educators with tools to create inclusive, multimodal learning environments by addressing employability skills aligned with workforce demands. Participants will leave with evidence-based practices and resources to apply in their teaching to empower diverse learners to thrive academically and professionally.

Melvin Smith, Adjunct Instructor, STEM-Business, Seattle Central College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Empowering Faculty for Impact: Academic-Student Affairs Partnerships in Action

This session explores the vital role of faculty in driving student success through an integrated approach involving both academic and student affairs. Focusing on key areas such as faculty buy-in, content enthusiasm, and personalized learning, we will discuss effective strategies for progress monitoring and student engagement that rely on strong faculty involvement. The presentation will also examine faculty support needs and the role of student affairs in understanding and addressing these needs, particularly when faculty serve as advisors to student clubs within their disciplines. Attendees will gain insights into the Faculty Fellows initiative, designed to strengthen faculty-student connections beyond the classroom. This session will equip participants with actionable strategies for creating a supportive framework that enhances faculty impact and promotes a campus culture of collaboration.

Jasmin Spain, Assistant Vice President, Student Support, Pitt Community College; Nicholas Vick, Dean, Applied Sciences and Technology, Tallahassee State College

PRECONFERENCE SEMINAR Teaching and Learning

Evidence-Based Practices for Reducing Student Anxiety in the Classroom

Since the pandemic, students’ stress levels have risen dramatically. Given that chronic stress can negatively affect students’ ability to learn and be successful in the classroom, it benefits faculty to learn how to recognize student stress and respond by teaching with compassion. In this interactive workshop, participants learn evidence-based strategies from the fields of educational psychology and neuroscience that provide practical tools for communication, rapport building, social interactions, self-regulation, and academic support.

Silke Morin, Associate Professor, Biology, and Assistant Department Chair for Student Relations, Austin Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Equitable Opportunity and Outcomes

Expungement Assistance: Empowering Students with Justice Involvement for Economic Mobility

Alamo Colleges District's innovative Expunction Assistance Pilot is designed to support students with justice involvement providing pathways to clear criminal records and remove barriers to employment. This session explores how the program helps students pursue economic mobility through increased employability, fostering a fresh start for those burdened by past criminal records. Attendees will gain insights into effective partnerships, like the collaboration with Easy Expunctions,that provide legal services at affordable costs and learn how this model is scalable across campuses. The program supports a more inclusive campus environment by addressing marginalized communities' unique challenges. The session also shares data collection strategies, evaluation metrics, and valuable lessons learned, offering attendees practical tools to implement similar initiatives to foster student success and close gaps.

Yousef Kassim, Founder, CEO of Easy Expunctions, Partner to Alamo Colleges District; Julia Stotts, Director, Strategic Priorities, Alamo Colleges District

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Faculty Onboarding: Planning and Adjustments Over Five Years at Harford Community College

Effective onboarding is important in connecting faculty with their new environment and in building a strong campus culture. This session will outline the system introduced at Harford Community College in 2020 and the adjustments we made each year. It will highlight key ideas that drove its design and the elements surrounding the sessions used to enhance its impact. (And show the mistakes we made along the way.) The session will also look at how our onboarding connects with five-year planning for new faculty as they progress toward tenure and promotion. Discussion will focus on comparative practices at your institutions. (If time permits, adjunct onboarding will also be discussed.)

Jeff Ball, Director, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, Harford Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Faculty Professional Development: Surprising Trends and Lessons

Houston Community College’s Faculty Academy offers faculty-created, faculty-led professional development, including workshops, showcases, and Colleague Connection Groups. After operating for three years, we have learned some unexpected lessons about popular timing, trends, and topics for faculty professional development. What are the most popular months for participation? Which departments participate the most (or the least)? Which book club selections had the most interest? You think you know…but it is not what you think. Finally, participants will analyze the strengths and challenges of the Faculty Academy model to determine how it might work or be adapted for their institution.

Laura Ayers, Director, Faculty Academy, Anthropology, Houston Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Financial Confidence for First-Gen Students: Breaking Stigmas, Building Success

Financial wellness is crucial for student success, yet many first-generation and low-income students face barriers to financial education, including stigma and lack of engagement. This session will explore strategies for integrating financial wellness programs into community colleges, equipping students with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed financial decisions. We will also discuss the challenges of breaking the negative perception around talking about money and share innovative approaches used to increase student participation in financial wellness workshops.

Raymond Dominguez, Manager, Title V Activity, HSI Grant Services Department, Southeast New Mexico College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Flipped Classroom: An Experiment and a Learning Curve

This session will explore various aspects of a flipped classroom: lecture videos, classroom discussions, student presentations, retention of knowledge, student responses, and overall impact on student success. The presentation will include a discussion about the pros and cons of using the flipped classroom model.

Gaumani Gyanwali, Instructor, chemistry and physical sciences, University of Arkansas Rich Mountain

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

From Idea to Implementation: Rethinking Tutoring Services with AI-Powered Support

This session explores the development and implementation of an AI tutor designed to assist students when human tutors are unavailable. More than just answering questions, this AI tutor directs students to librarians, tutoring services, and student well-being programs. Currently in a pilot phase, the AI tutor is being evaluated through student surveys to assess engagement and effectiveness. While results are forthcoming, this session will share preliminary insights and lessons learned from integrating AI tutoring across 12 courses, including developmental education. A unique aspect of this project is using AI to train AI by leveraging ChatGPT to refine responses and directives. The session also explores AI literacy training for tutors, including a micro-credential initiative for responsible AI use.

Ustadza White, Library Manager, Technical Services and Technology, Marketing and Communications, Interim Manager,Learning Center, Yavapai College

BREAKOUT SESSION Community and Workforce Partnerships

From Input to Action: Building Responsive Industry Advisory Councils

Shifting from a traditional advisory committee to a Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) can be challenging—but the results are worth it. Unlike conventional advisory boards, a BILT actively engages industry experts in identifying and voting on the essential skills graduates need, ensuring programs stay aligned with workforce demands. In this session, we will share practical lessons learned while implementing a BILT for the Information Technology program at a rural community college. We will highlight strategies to navigate challenges, foster engagement, and apply the model across disciplines. Learn how to build strong, responsive industry partnerships that drive curriculum relevance and student success. Whether you are starting fresh or refining an existing advisory council, this session will equip you with actionable steps to make industry input truly count.

Danny Darden, Associate Professor, Computer Information Technology, Kilgore College; Ginger Dennis, Department Chair, Business and Information Technology, Kilgore College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

From Insights to Action: How Delgado Community College Transformed Academic Success with IntelliBoard

What happens when leadership, faculty, and the right tools work together to turn data into real action? At Delgado Community College (DCC), learning analytics aren’t just numbers on a screen—they’re driving student engagement, faculty accountability, and academic success. By working with IntelliBoard, DCC streamlined access to key data, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual reports. But the benefits did not stop there—automated notifications keep students and instructors on track with timely alerts that encourage action and accountability. In this lively conversation, Angela Camaille (Delgado) and Becky Keith (IntelliBoard) will share how visualizing data transformed decision-making, the challenges they tackled along the way, and the impact on student success. Bring your questions-let's talk about how you can turn data into action at your institution!

Angela Camaille, Director, Instructional Technology, Support, and Professional Development, Delgado Community College; Becky Keith, CEO, IntelliBoard

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

From Sacrifice to Success: Supporting Military Spouses in Higher Education Transitions

Military spouses face unique challenges while pursuing higher education, including frequent relocations, financial constraints, and a lack of institutional support tailored to their needs. This session presents findings from a qualitative study examining the barriers military spouses encounter navigating their education. The research highlights critical factors influencing their academic persistence and success, including access to resources, social support networks, and institutional policies.Attendees will gain insight into the lived experiences of military spouses and explore actionable strategies for institutions to better support this population. The session will conclude with a discussion on policy implications and best practices for improving retention and completion rates among military-affiliated learners. This presentation is ideal for educators, administrators, and policymakers seeking to create inclusive pathways for military spouses in Higher Ed.

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

From Summer Revamp to Classroom Impact: Redesigning Courses for Excellence in Teaching and Learning

How can summer course redesign projects transform student engagement, elevate teaching excellence, and support faculty development? In this session, you will learn how one campus embraced summer course redesign, focused on incorporating emerging and engaging pedagogies and technologies in programmatic and general studies courses. Participants will learn how to develop and implement a course redesign model that encourages and supports faculty to incorporate practical methods to enhance student participation, foster meaningful learning experiences, and implement cutting-edge tools for engagement. Through real-world examples and interactive discussion, participants will gain actionable insights on how to revitalize their course redesign process and create dynamic learning environments. Whether you are refining an existing course or starting fresh, this session will provide inspiration and proven strategies to enhance teaching and learning.

Elizabeth Cassady, Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Ivy Tech Community College, Sellersburg; Mary Springer, Dean, Teaching, Learning, and Academic Support, Ivy Tech Community College, Sellersburg

BREAKOUT SESSION Equitable Opportunity and Outcomes

From Vinyl to Viral: Teaching Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers Together

In the community college environment, we must be prepared for students of all ages. This session offers a brief overview of the four generations you might encounter as an instructor and what you need to know to help each student be successful in your course. In today's diverse classrooms, instructors often face the challenge of teaching students from multiple generations, each with their own learning styles, communication preferences, and technological fluency. From Vinyl to Viral: Teaching Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers Together explores how to effectively engage students across these generational divides. This session will provide educators with practical strategies for navigating the unique strengths and needs of each generation, from the tech-savvy Gen Z to the experiential Baby Boomers.

Tina Bausinger, Faculty Fellow, Faculty Development, Alamo Colleges

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Future-Ready Learning: AI-Enhanced Strategies for Career Success and Student Engagement

As AI reshapes education and our workplace, how can we prepare students for success? This session explores AI-enhanced teaching strategies that build career readiness, critical thinking, and student engagement. Learn how to utilize free AI tools to teach everything from writing, interview prep, and workplace communication while also fostering ethical AI use. Attendees will gain practical strategies to integrate AI into learning experiences that connect classroom skills to real-world applications.

Kayla Almaguer, Assistant Professor and System Liaison, Communications/Rhetoric/Mental Health, Lone Star College System

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Game On: Building an Esports Program from the Ground Up at a Community College

Esports is rapidly growing in higher education, offering a unique opportunity to engage students, foster academic success, and open doors to emerging career pathways. However, for many two-year colleges, getting started can be a daunting challenge—especially when balancing student interest, administrative buy-in, funding, and academic integration. Midlands Technical College (MTC) is in the early stages of building its esports program from the ground up. This session will provide a firsthand look at how a technical college can start an esports initiative, from forming an interest group and securing institutional support to identifying academic and workforce connections.

Shickre Sabbagha, Dean, School of Education and Public Service, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Midlands Technical College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

GenAI and the Coreq Model: Teaching Students How to Use GenAI Ethically in Academia

Students everywhere are using generative AI and now many instructors are using it as well. AI can be a powerful tool for relevant information, but it can also be a tool for misinformation. Now that we have all had more time with generative AI, it is extremely important to share and discuss with our corequisite students the current trends in Gen AI and how they may use this tool to enhance and supplement their learning. It is equally important that we help them understand how to use Gen AI ethically, responsibly, and transparently. Join this interactive session to build an assignment and resource bank of great Gen AI resources to share with your students and use in your own instructional design.

Camisha Broussard, Professor, English, Houston Community College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Get Up and Engage!

We all know that excessive sitting contributes to a number of health complications. So why do we keep our students seated for an 80-minute class lecture? In this presentation, we explore the issues associated with sitting for long periods and then show a number of formative active learning methods that can get students up and moving during the class. These methods can apply to a number of disciplines, and participants should plan to actively participate. So, let's get moving!

Ed Augustitus, Associate Professor, Exercise Science, Health and Physical Education, Harford Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

Adult learners often come to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience that should not be negated or overlooked. This experience comes in a variety of forms from required continuing education/professional development, military experience, work experience in a related field, or prior coursework that is similar but does not exactly fit our mold. To assist in reducing time and cost constraints, we must help these students leverage the skills they have gained outside of a traditional classroom and award them credit. Learn how Piedmont Community College, along with the North Carolina Community College System, has worked to develop policies for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and Experiential Learning (EL) to increase student completion.

Barbara Buchanan, Vice President, Instruction / CAO, Piedmont Community College; Alisa Montgomery, Dean, Health and Public Safety, Piedmont Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Hand Me a Tissue! How Novelists Evoke Empathy Using Gradual Revelation and First-Person Narratives

Literature takes readers on an emotional journey that inculcates empathy and emotional intelligence. Novelists create characters whose struggles, joys, victories, and sorrows are deeply felt by readers. The relationship between the reader and the characters is fostered and deepened by a novelist's use of gradual revelation and first-person narrative. In this workshop, English Professor Katie Sweeting will reference key works of literature, including The Covenant of Water, by Abraham Verghese, The Magnificent Ruins, By Nayantara Roy, and The Death of Ivan Ilych, by Leo Tolstoy. This workshop is for English professors, novelists, and those who read for pleasure. Polls and questions embedded in the Nearpod presentation will deepen audience engagement.

Catherine Sweeting, Professor, English, Hudson County Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

How Do You Know: Identifying and Addressing AI-Generated Student Writing

As AI tools become increasingly more sophisticated, they present new challenges to academic integrity. This workshop offers a comprehensive approach to identifying and addressing AI-generated content in student work. Participants will analyze writing samples for telltale signs of AI assistance in addition to acquiring effective questioning techniques through role-play scenarios that help navigate sensitive conversations with students suspected of AI use. Participants will leave with a toolkit of practical strategies and a deeper understanding of the evolving ethical considerations surrounding AI in higher education.

Fonda Ginsburg, Instructor, English, College of Lake County

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Implementing the Pedagogy of Real Talk to Connect with Students At-Promise in the Classroom

This session will consist of a discussion around the foundational principles of Real Talk, a pedagogical method focused on creating connections with at-promise students. This equity-focused pedagogy leads educators through the development of a community of practice that teaches faculty to create a sense of belonging and engage students with an inclusive curriculum within the classroom.

Nicholas Cochrane, Professor, Business, Mount Wachusett Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Improving English and Mathematics Placement Success with EdReady

Effectively placing students into English and mathematics courses to optimize student success continues to be a struggle for two-year institutions. York Technical College has been seeking English and mathematics placement practices that appropriately place students in an accessible, equitable, and sustainable manner. After implementing placement with high school GPA, institutional leadership and key stakeholders identified and implemented EdReady as an alternative to the traditional high-stakes placement options. EdReady is an adaptive learning platform provided by the non-profit organization NROC to personalize math and English instruction for students. The session will discuss EdReady’s benefits as an alternative placement option, York Technical College’s EdReady implementation, and the metrics being used to assess the implementation’s success.

Alexandra Allen, Department Chair, English and Foreign Languages, York Technical College; Steven Richardson, Department Chair, Mathematics, York Technical College; Wesley Spinks, Associate Dean, Arts and Sciences, York Technical College; James Thomas, Associate Vice President, Business, Computers, Arts, and Sciences, York Technical College; Jackie Yarka, Regional Partnership Manager, Math and English, The NROC Project

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Inspiring Students (and Faculty) with Hope, Self-Determination, and an Active Learning Ultimatum

This session will explore simple strategies associated with hope theory and self-determination theory (SDT), as well as the instructor’s purpose and role in creating an inspiring classroom environment conducive to active learning resulting in successful learning outcomes. Utilizing both original concepts from over twenty years of teaching experience and existing research related to positive thought and interpersonal communication skills, this session will both define and teach a process of having students (and faculty) become more accountable for their own motivation and more aware of “mindset consequences” in and outside the classroom.

Derek de la Pena, Instructor, Psychology, Wharton County Junior College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Invisible Man: The Psychological Impact of the Mental Health Pandemic in Higher Education

The mental health crisis in higher education has reached unprecedented levels, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and a profound sense of disconnection among scholars. Invisible Man delves into the hidden struggles students face as they navigate a world reshaped by isolation, uncertainty, and diminished social interaction.This session examines the far-reaching effects of this mental health pandemic on academic performance, motivation, and overall well-being. Participants will explore the concept of “failure to thrive” in the collegiate setting and its correlation with declining engagement and academic persistence. Join this session for a candid and solutions-focused discussion about transforming higher education into a space where students can flourish academically and emotionally.

Kamara Taylor, Professor, Psychology, Diablo Valley College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

It’s Not My Chair, After All: I Blinked and Now I’m Department Chair

You did not apply for it, but here you are—department chair, like it or not! Whether you were the last one standing, blinked at the wrong moment, or just wanted to "help out," this session will explore the unexpected challenges (and occasional joys) of academic leadership. From budget battles and faculty quirks to meetings that never end, we will share survival strategies, boundary-setting tips, and a few laughs along the way. If your inbox never stops, your calendar is out of control, and you are wondering how you got here, this session is for you. Let us navigate the chaos together and figure out how to make the most of the seat you never meant to take!

David Pyle, Chair, Education, Professor, Faculty Fellow for the Center of Advancement in Teaching and Learning, Lone Star College-Montgomery

BREAKOUT SESSION Equitable Opportunity and Outcomes

Journey to Liberation: Empowering Equity Conversations Through Courageous Leadership

Join us for an empowering session designed to help you confidently navigate conversations about race, identity, and equity. In a time of growing resistance to justice efforts, courageous leadership is more important than ever. We will start by establishing agreements to support open, honest dialogue, then dive into the Journey to Liberation framework—providing historical context and practical tools to address bias, stereotypes, and microaggressions. Through group discussions, restorative questions, and the 5 Pillars of Courageous Family Leadership, you will gain strategies to promote equity-centered dialogue at school, work, and home. Leave equipped with actionable steps and renewed resilience to advance justice and liberation where you live, learn, and lead. This session is for educators, leaders, parents, and community members committed to real change.

Shelley Jones-Holt, CEO / Founder, Leadership Legacy Consulting, LLC

CAMPFIRE SESSION Equitable Opportunity and Outcomes

Language, Culture, and Identity: How to Support Students of the U.S. / Mexico border

Cochise College is a community college located less than two miles from the U.S. / Mexico border. For sixty years, students that live on both sides of the border attend the college while navigating life as transborder students. They live between two countries, two languages, and two cultures. Their experiences and definitions about education can be different than what is established as a traditional American-based model of education.Cochise College support for the transborder student exists through initiatives that help communicate culture, language, learning styles, instructional method, and the curriculum.The presenter will share best practices that support academic success for these students including international partnerships, high impact learning practices, and educational experiences outside the classroom that support in-classroom learning.

Abraham Villarreal, Campus Dean, Academic Affairs, Cochise College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Launching, Learning, and Leaning on AI: Lessons From My First Semester Teaching

After graduating in December, I was asked to teach two days before the start of the new semester. Yay! But also – um, HELP!? With no time to prepare, I turned to AI to help me brainstorm lessons, prepare content, engage with students, and more. In this session I will share what worked, what flopped, and how AI can be an ally (without replacing the human touch). Whether you are new to teaching, curious about AI, or just love a good trial-by-fire story, this session will provide practical takeaways and a few laughs along the way.

Bryana Atkinson, Online Systems Manager, Spartanburg Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Leadership Styles and Adjunct Faculty Well-Being: Transforming Research into Impact

Adjunct faculty play a critical role in higher education institutions, yet research shows they often experience isolation, lack of institutional support, and marginalization. This session explores how different leadership styles impact adjunct faculty well-being, drawing on findings from a study conducted at the College of DuPage (COD) and Elgin Community College in Illinois. Using Bass & Avolio’s full range leadership model and Seligman’s well-being theory (PERMA), we examine how transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership styles influence faculty engagement, satisfaction, and student outcomes. Participants will leave with actionable insights on leadership approaches that foster a thriving adjunct faculty workforce.

Kate Szetela, Manager, Adjunct Faculty Support, College of DuPage

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Leadership that Empowers, Includes, Motivates, and Retains. Leveraging the Neuroscience.

Effective leadership is the ability to positively influence others through highly developed self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and communication skills. In the best cultures, people lead from every level and area of an organization. These are skills that can be practiced, honed, and developed.We all have a profound impact upon the emotional state of the people that we engage with every day. Leading individuals or groups, the neuroscience is clear: The affective/emotional domain powerfully impacts a person’s ability to think, problem solve, persistence in the face of challenges, sustain motivation, and perform at their highest level.This multidimensional, interactive, fun presentation will develop leadership skills that promote positive, enthusiastic, and engaged collaboration, while encouraging personal growth, team cohesion, and organizational resilience and excellence.

David Katz III, Professor Emeritus / Leadership Consultant, Leadership / Organizational Development, davidkatzpresents.com

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Leadership that Empowers, Includes, Motivates, and Retains. Leveraging the Neuroscience.

Effective leadership is the ability to positively influence others through highly developed self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and communication skills. In the best cultures people lead from every level and area of an organization. These are skills that can be practiced, honed, and developed. We all have a profound impact upon the emotional state of the people that we engage with every day. Leading individuals or groups, the neuroscience is clear: The affective/emotional domain powerfully impacts a person’s ability to think, problem solve, persistence in the face of challenges, sustain motivation, and perform at their highest level. This multidimensional, interactive, fun presentation will develop leadership skills that promote positive, enthusiastic, and engaged collaboration, while encouraging personal growth, team cohesion, and organizational resilience and excellence.

David Katz III, Professor Emeritus / Leadership Consultant, Leadership / Organizational Development, davidkatzpresents.com

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Lessons from a 15-Year Partnership: The Art of Internationalizing the Curriculum and Building Cross-Cultural Exchange

For 15 years, faculty from Valencia College in Florida and Koning Willem I College in the Netherlands have collaborated to create a reciprocal short-term study abroad program that fosters cross-cultural learning and enhances interpersonal communication competencies. This session will explore how institutions can develop sustainable international partnerships, embed global learning in the curriculum, and design short-term study abroad experiences that emphasize meaningful cultural exchange. Presenters from both colleges will share best practices, challenges, and successes from their long-standing collaboration, offering a model for institutions seeking to internationalize their curriculum through experiential learning.

Gideon Swart, Lecturer / Education Coordinator, Building and Living, Koning Willem I College - Netherlands; Suzette Ashton, Tenured Professor, Speech / Communication, Valencia College; Paul Swinkels, Educational Manager, Hospitality and Tourism's-Hertogenbosch, Koning Willem I College - Netherlands

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Leveraging the Dual Enrollment Survey of Student Engagement (DESSE) to Promote Dual Enrolled Student Success

Dual enrollment programs offer high school students an invaluable opportunity to engage with college-level coursework and earn college credit while still in high school. Although participation rates in dual enrollment programs are rapidly increasing, access and long-term student success varies significantly, especially among underrepresented groups. To support dually enrolled students equitably, colleges must understand their experiences, especially those of underrepresented groups. This presentation explores how colleges can use the Dual Enrollment Survey of Student Engagement (DESSE), to evaluate and improve programs for dual enrolled students. Temple College, a 2022 and 2024 DESSE pilot participant, will share how they used the DESSE to evaluate student experiences in their dual enrollment program, and made enhancements to improve engagement and support for their students.

Courtney Adkins, Director, CCCSE, University of Texas at Austin; Rosa Berreles-Acosta, Executive Director, Dual Credit, rosa.berreles-acosta@templecollege.edu, Temple College; Anthony Perez, Program Manager, DESSE, CCCSE, University of Texas at Austin

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Louisiana Gumbo: Reimagining the Annual Faculty Evaluation Process.

In August 2022, a group of faculty members formed a task force to reimagine the evaluation process at Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC). The task force developed a vision of teaching excellence that represents the academic and technical identities of BRCC. We will share how we brought active faculty, students, and administration together to reconceptualize the evaluation process and foster a constructive dialogue based on a shared definition of teaching excellence in the evolving educational landscape. We will discuss the ingredients we mixed and the lessons we learned while cooking up this new approach.

Christopher Brumfield, Associate Professor, Fine Art and Communication/Liberal Arts, Baton Rouge Community College; Vinetta Frie, Professor, Fine Arts and Communication / Liberal Arts, Baton Rouge Community College; Sandra Guzman, Professor, Biology / Science / STEM, Baton Rouge Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Leadership and Governance

Membership Matters: Lessons From TCCTA on Stabilizing and Growing Professional Associations in Higher Education

What can we learn from the challenges and successes of one long-standing faculty association? This session explores research and reflections from the Texas Community College Teachers Association (TCCTA) about stabilizing and growing membership in a shifting educational landscape. Whether your organization is experiencing growth, stagnation, or decline, you will gain insights into how to increase relevance, build belonging, and adapt engagement strategies to better serve today’s faculty.

Ashlee Wigham, Director, Membership and Programs, Texas Community College Teachers Association; J.P. Winston, Executive Director, Texas Community College Teachers Association

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Metacognition: The Key to Student Engagement and Increased Learning!

Many students struggle in college not because of lack of ability, but because they have not been taught the critical thinking skills required for success. These skills can be increased rapidly and substantially by teaching students about metacognition and providing specific metacognitive learning strategies. The session will discuss definitions of metacognition and metacognitive equity and present causes for the lack of metacognitive skills observed in many current students. Participants will engage in activities to demonstrate strategies that transform students’ attitudes about the meaning of learning. This leads to increased student success, confidence, and upwardly spiraling motivation.

Saundra McGuire, Professor Emerita / Director Emerita, Chemistry / Center for Academic Success, Louisiana State University

Leading From the Middle

Middle Ground Leadership: Embracing the Modern Learner Through Student-Oriented Teaching

Department chairs and mid-level leaders play a crucial role in guiding faculty toward teaching practices responsive to the evolving needs of modern learners. This session emphasizes the importance of shifting from traditional, teacher-centered pedagogies toward dynamic, student-oriented approaches that deeply connect with community college students' lived experiences and future goals. Through adaptive leadership and strategic use of technology, including AI, leaders will explore how to effectively champion a culture shift toward meaningful, relevant, and engaging education.

Krista Hanna, Instructor, Business, Coffeyville Community College

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Mindful Teaching: Proven Techniques to Reduce Stress and Improve Student Performance in the Adult Education Classroom

Join us for a workshop on Mindful Teaching, where you will learn proven techniques to reduce stress and improve student performance in the adult education (AE) classroom. Discover practical mindfulness strategies to create a relaxed and focused learning environment, manage anxiety and stress, improve attention and concentration, and enhance memory and retention. Engage in interactive, hands-on activities to equip yourself with tools to help both yourself and your students navigate the challenges of teaching, learning and living in today's society.

Stacy Ramirez, Coordinator, Staff Development, Adult Education, Austin Community College; Aida Watkins, Instructor, CPW, Adult Education, Austin Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Navigating Engagement: Faculty Pursuits for Students’ Success

As educational institutions increasingly recognize the critical role of well-being, the integration of evidence-based wellness programs can foster a more positive, productive, and engaged community. In the classroom, student well-being is closely tied to academic achievement and overall learning outcomes. Research shows that students who are physically and mentally well are more likely to engage in learning, perform better academically, and retain information effectively. This session will discuss various wellness initiatives, such as mindful teaching strategies. Then, we will discuss how to evaluate them within an educational context, and end with how to implement such initiatives in ways that promote a holistic approach to teaching and learning.

Miguel A. Rivera, Director, Counseling and Accessibility Services, Daytona State College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Overwhelmed to Empowered: Rethinking Assessments for Success and Retention

We have increased student success and retention as we have updated our summative assessments’ logistics for better continuity throughout the semester, reordered the content for a better student workflow and we have provided continuous support for our instructors.

Lyndsy Frazier, Associate Professor, Biological and Physical Sciences, Columbus State Community College; Eric Kenz, Associate Professor, Biological and Physical Sciences, Columbus State Community College; Kayla Robinson, Assistant Professor, Biological and Physical Sciences, Columbus State Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Positive Vibes, Positive Classrooms: Infusing Positive Psychology and Well-Being Into Curriculum and Institutions

Over the past several decades student mental health issues in the United States have risen exponentially at colleges and universities with outcomes linked to lower GPAs and early withdrawal. In order to address these growing concerns, many evidenced-based positive psychology studies were launched during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic at colleges and universities worldwide. From this research, a number of innovative evidence-based positive psychology programs building upon student strengths and supporting student well-being have been implemented. This session will provide attendees with actionable evidence-based positive psychology strategies to improve student engagement and well-being that may be integrated into existing curriculum or as part of institutional initiatives. This session is appropriate for faculty, counselors, student support services staff, and administrators.

Jennifer Graydon, Adjunct Professor, Psychology, Austin Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Rethinking Assessments in the Artificial Intelligence Era

Generative Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the future of learning as AI continues to reshape education at a high speed. Educators confront the challenge of understanding and ethically partnering with powerful AI tools while recognizing its opportunities to increase student engagement and improve learning outcomes. The session will explore case studies to unlock the power of AI and help educators adapt to this new era of human thinking to develop curriculum and provide academic support to learners. This presentation will explore practical strategies for effectively transforming educator AI literacy and expertise to integrate Artificial Intelligence into course design. The strategies include using Generative Artificial Intelligence tools to foster a personalized learning experience, engage learners in course content, create assessments, and provide customized feedback.

Hanan Hanna, Professor, Information Technology, Pasco-Hernando State College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Rethinking Remedial Math: Inclusive and Flexible Approaches for Student Success

Remedial math courses are essential for students, especially those from historically underserved backgrounds. However, traditional in-person formats may not fully address the diverse needs of today’s learners. With the rise of online and hybrid models, alongside enhanced college-level support systems, we now have the opportunity to rethink how we deliver remedial math courses. This includes supporting students in taking remedial math concurrently with college-level courses, providing more flexibility and academic progression. By adopting various instructional modalities, we can create inclusive learning environments that support all students, particularly underserved ones. This approach not only helps overcome the challenges of remedial math but also increases student success, retention, and achievement.

Bernard Adamitey, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Hudson County Community College; Claudia Delgado, Professor, Mathematics, Hudson County Community College; Kewal Krishan, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Hudson County Community College; Laura Samuelsen, Assistant Professor, Mathematics, Hudson County Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Revolutionizing Language Learning with AI: Best Practices for Classroom Integration and Beyond

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way languages are taught and learned. This session explores the best practices for integrating AI into the language classroom and beyond, offering innovative ways to enhance student engagement and proficiency. Participants will learn how AI-powered tools can assist with personalized learning, real-time feedback, and immersive language practice. Additionally, ethical considerations of AI in education will be discussed to ensure responsible use. Through real-world applications and practical demonstrations, educators will gain insights into how AI can support students not only in the classroom but also as a companion for continued practice outside formal instruction. By the end of this session, attendees will be equipped with strategies to effectively incorporate AI into their language courses for more dynamic and effective instruction.

Luis Anchondo, Assistant Professor, Education and Spanish, Southeast New Mexico College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Self-Care U: Surviving Academia Without Losing Your Sanity

Feeling like your inbox is plotting against you? Wondering if coffee counts as a meal? This session is here to remind you that yes, you can take care of yourself while surviving the chaos of higher education. We will cover simple (and hilarious) ways to protect your mental wellness, sneak in some physical well-being (beyond pacing during office hours), and build emotional resilience—so you don’t spontaneously combust. Join us for practical, real-world self-care tips that fit into your academic life—because you deserve more than stress-eating granola bars between meetings.

Michelle D. Burnett, Associate Director, Center for Student Information, Alamo Colleges

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

Step Aside—Mastering Conflict and Crisis Leadership with Confidence and Clarity

Effective leaders must navigate conflict with grace and guide institutions through crises without compromising trust, transparency, or integrity. This session explores how to step aside strategically—not as an act of disengagement, but as a means to facilitate resolution, encourage collaboration, and maintain forward momentum. Using the FEAR framework (Focus, Evaluate, Act, Reflect), participants will learn to de-escalate tense situations, foster open dialogue, and turn conflicts into opportunities for growth. The session also introduces “Seeking Opportunities in Every Experience,” helping leaders reframe crises as catalysts for improvement. Attendees will engage in scenario-based training and guided discussions to develop practical skills in conflict resolution and crisis leadership. By the end, leaders will be prepared to handle high-stakes situations with confidence, integrity, and strategic foresight.

Stephanie Duguid, Owner and Speaker, Do Good Leadership

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Step Away—Prioritizing Leadership Well-Being for Sustainable Impact and Long-Term Success

Burnout is a significant challenge in higher education leadership, impacting effectiveness, decision-making, and longevity. This session explores how to step away strategically to recharge, refocus, and sustain leadership impact without feeling guilty or losing momentum. Using the battery level framework, participants will assess their current energy levels and identify strategies to prevent depletion. The Synthesize in Leadership approach will shift the focus from compartmentalization to integration, helping leaders create a seamless balance between personal well-being and professional success. Attendees will engage in self-reflection exercises, interactive discussions, and practical strategies to increase resilience, manage stress, and maintain long-term leadership effectiveness. By the end of this session, leaders will have an actionable plan to sustain energy, productivity, and career fulfillment while leading with strength and purpose.

Stephanie Duguid, Owner and Speaker, Do Good Leadership

PRECONFERENCE SEMINAR Teaching and Learning

Step Together: Inspire, Empower, and Lead Positively

Leadership is not a solitary journey—it’s a collective endeavor where success is built on trust, collaboration, and empowerment. This immersive and dynamic workshop invites participants to explore the power of “stepping together” as leaders who inspire, empower, and create positive environments. In this interactive and engaging workshop, participants explore the essential role of collaboration in leadership, uncover strategies to build trust, and learn to create inclusive and empowering environments. Through thought-provoking activities, participants gain actionable insights into fostering teamwork and inspiring others to achieve collective success. Participants leave with a personalized team empowerment action plan, ready to implement collaborative strategies and inspire those they lead. If you’re ready to amplify your leadership impact and foster a culture of inclusion and trust, this workshop is your next step forward.

Stephanie Duguid, Owner, Do Good Work

MAKE-AND-TAKE WORKSHOP Teaching and Learning

Strategies to Improve Student Engagement using Artificial Intelligence: From First Year Experience to Capstone Project

Are you concerned about AI’s proliferation in our classroom and do not know where to start? Join this interactive session to explore two high-impact teaching strategies that utilize three AI tools to engage students. This session provides examples, exercises and strategies from used in a first year experience course that utilizes AI for tutoring, and interactions for Bloom’s level for lower-order thinking skills. This session will also provide examples from a project-based learning embedded capstone course that utilizes AI powered tools for simulating a real-world example for Bloom’s level of higher-order thinking skills. This session will provide participants with samples of exercises, prompts, and assessments that they can implement in their coursework.

Rahnuma Ahsan, Senior Associate Professor, Business, Miami Dade College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Student-Faculty Bridge program from high school to first semester shows success for 2-year STEM students

At Columbus State Community College, we offer an immersive experience bridging the high school-to-college gap. Our week-long program is designed to help students smoothly transition into college, allowing for the fear of the unknown or the increase in rigor to be tackled before school even begins. Our goals include easing the transition by addressing academic, financial, administrative, and social challenges that students may face in a more independent educational environment. Through the organization of a 5-day pre-semester event, we introduce our students to a series of laboratories, mentorship and breakout sessions that increase academic responsibility, self-confidence, diversity, equity, and inclusion, social engagement and overall greater collegial success for the transfer to 4-year institutions. Join us to learn about our program and what the data says about our approach.

Lyndsy Frazier, Associate Professor, Biological and Physical Sciences, Columbus State Community College; Kayla Robinson, Assistant Professor, Biological and Physical Science, Columbus State Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Supporting Non-Traditional Student Success in Online Higher Education

Identify barriers and creative solutions to support non-traditional childcare employees to improve retention, persistence and completion in online higher education coursework. Learn how strategies and resources employed in a six-year department of education collaboration with higher education and community partners evolved in response to real world student need and brainstorm ways to transfer these strategies to other professional development.

Ingrid Everett, Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Education, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Supporting the Whole Student: Integrating Holistic Support for Student Well-Being

In this session, we will explore the importance of taking a holistic approach to supporting college students, focusing on their academic, emotional, social, and physical well-being. Attendees will learn how integrating various support services—such as counseling, academic advising, wellness programming, community partnerships, and peer to peer support—can create a more effective and inclusive student experience. Through case studies, practical strategies, and interactive discussions, we will highlight the interconnectedness of student needs and how a coordinated support system can enhance student success, retention, and overall well-being. Whether you’re a campus professional, educator, or student advocate, this session will provide you with valuable insights on how to foster an environment where students feel supported, empowered, and equipped to thrive both academically and personally.

Jaime Anzalotta, Vice President, Student Affairs, Chief Enrollment Officer, Miami Dade College; Arlen Garcia, Professor, Psychology / Social Sciences, Miami Dade College; Lourdes Perez, Director, Student Wellness, Miami Dade College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

Taking Root: Establishing and Sustaining Mental Health First Aid through a Grassroots Initiative

This workshop explores the transformative power of community engagement in promoting mental health awareness and support. Participants will learn how our college successfully adopted an existing Mental Health First Aid program, emphasizing grassroots efforts that involved students, faculty, and staff. We will share effective strategies for cultivating a sustainable culture of care, building vital support networks, and nurturing resilience among our student body. Through collaborative discussions and practical insights, attendees will leave equipped with the tools to implement similar initiatives in their own institutions, fostering an environment where mental well-being is prioritized and accessible to all. Together, we can make a lasting impact on mental health in our communities.

Mark Beluscak, Faculty, Criminal Justice, Arapahoe Community College; Megan Rector, Faculty Chair, Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, Arapahoe Community College; Sonya Riffel, Faculty, Behavioral Health, Arapahoe Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teach the Teacher: What Happens when the Teenagers Become the Experts?

What happens when students and teachers switch roles? ‘Teach the Teacher’ is a groundbreaking role-reversal initiative transforming vocational education. Students take the lead, teaching their teachers a practical skill learned from another course—deepening engagement, strengthening teacher-student relationships, and reminding educators what it feels like to be a learner again. Already a leading approach across Further Education colleges in the UK, this session explores its practical applications in the U.S. and beyond. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to re-engage disengaged learners, boost attendance and retention, and create dynamic, student-led classrooms. Walk away with innovative techniques that challenge traditional pedagogy, inspire collaboration, and revitalize teaching and learning. Designed for educators and leaders who want to experience the power of role-reversal to transform your classroom!

Rachel Arnold, Quality Coach, English Lecturer and PhD Researcher, Solihull College and University Centre (England) and University of Cambridge

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teaching AI Literacy to Non-Technical Students Without Math or Programming

AI (Artificial Intelligence) functionality and adoption are evolving rapidly. The need for an AI-capable workforce will grow dramatically across all industries and prompts a pivot towards developing students’ AI literacy skills. This session will present key insights into teaching AI literacy by sharing the process of developing AI User, a course for teaching AI Literacy to non-technical students without requiring math or programming skills. Attendees will view demonstrations of the AI User course, developed through an NSF-funded AI institute. Then, participants will engage in discussions about AI, AI literacy, and teaching about AI. Finally, participants will reflect on how they can bring AI literacy into their own courses. Participants will leave with insights to create interactive and engaging learning experiences that improve AI literacy.

Christopher Bogart, Systems Scientist, Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University; Adam Zhang, Data Scientist, Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teaching and Learning in an Order of Perpetual Crisis

We live in a global order of perpetual crisis, in which it is often easier to imagine the end of the world than it is to conceive realistic solutions to the crises that threaten us existentially and materially. Teaching, in and of itself, cannot resolve these economic, cultural, political, and environmental crises. Yet teaching remains urgent, in large part because teaching offers the opportunity to ingrain habits and values that run counter to those that have brought us to global crisis. In this campfire session, we will discuss the approaches instructors have to teaching in an order of perpetual crisis. In particular, we will discuss how crises-- for example, increasing economic and ecological insecurity--manifest in the classroom, and how we as teachers deal with them.

Chandler Fry, Professor, English, Piedmont Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teaching Beyond Screens: Balancing AI Integration with Human Connection

Faculty often express concerns about losing meaningful human connections in classrooms increasingly mediated by screens and AI tools. Yet, what if strategic AI integration could deepen rather than diminish these connections? This conversational campfire session explores how intentionally delegating low-impact tasks to AI can empower educators to invest more energy into high-impact, human-centered teaching practices. Through guided group discussion, real-life scenarios, and thoughtful reflection, participants will explore practical ways AI can support, rather than detract from, authentic learning relationships.

Krista Hanna, Instructor, Business, Coffeyville Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teaching Beyond the Textbook—The Role of Storytelling in Online/Virtual/In-Person Students

Most students disengaged from traditional lectures suddenly find passion after hearing a real-life story. Engagement skyrockets when students see how concepts apply to real life. They retain information better and develop a problem-solving mindset, leading to stronger workforce professionals. In this session, we will explore the impact of storytelling as an educator tool to improve student engagement and critical thinking.

Chibuzor (Chichi) Nwankwo, Instructor, Anatomy and Physiology, Southern Crescent Technical College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Teaching Strategies to Enhance Effective Learning

This session explores effective teaching strategies that enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Participants will discover a variety of approaches, including active learning, collaborative techniques, and formative assessments, all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the material. Emphasis will be placed on creating inclusive and interactive learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. Strategies like flipped classrooms, inquiry-based learning, and the use of multimedia tools will be discussed to boost motivation and participation. By the end, educators will gain practical techniques to help students retain knowledge, think critically, and develop skills for lifelong learning.

Swathi Karamcheti, Adjunct Instructor, Sustainability, Hudson County Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Community and Workforce Partnerships

The Advantages of Being Uncomfortable: A Good Practice for Building Critical Thinkers in the Classroom!!!

This session discusses the positives and what to watch out for with having difficult conversations in the classroom. We will discuss the importance of supporting difficult conversations that grow students' critical thinking skills, how to over come students' fears of sharing opinions, and how to encourage student participation.

Charles Wayne Bass, Instructor, Communication / Humanities, Coffeyville Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

The ART of Deescalating Adults in the Academic Environment

What is the absolute worst statement that you can make to a person struggling to calm down? Answer: Calm down. There may not be a more important skill for institutional faculty today than the ability to effectively de-escalate people in crisis. A healthy campus climate is predicated on having a focused and consistent approach to diffusing conflict. From angry students to their disgruntled parents, campus staff must have the ability to guide conflict and bring calm to escalated situations. Even veteran staff can struggle in this critical area without a structured approach. Participants will explore why and how humans escalate before diving into research-based, impactful strategies that will aid in helping escalated individuals calm themselves, process the incident, and preserve the relationship for future interactions.

Kenneth Henry Jr, Assistant Superintendent, Cypress Fairbanks ISD

BREAKOUT SESSION Leadership and Governance

The Blueprint for Success: Ten Strategies for Effective Leadership

During this session, participants will explore ten practical and proven strategies tailored for educational leaders. Led by an academic dean from a rural community college, this presentation will offer real-world examples, anecdotes, and actionable insights into how these strategies can foster collaboration and enhance student outcomes. Topics will include effective communication, faculty development, resource management, fostering an inclusive campus culture, and developing a long-term vision for institutional growth. The session will be interactive, encouraging participants to ask questions, share their experiences, and discuss how they can implement these strategies in their own leadership roles. Whether you are a seasoned leader or new to administration, this session will provide you with valuable tools to lead with purpose and drive positive change in your educational community.

David Townsend, Dean, University Transfer and General Education, Piedmont Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

The Economics of Attention: Using Economic Principles to Maximize Classroom Effectiveness

Discover how economic principles can help transform your teaching! In this interactive session, explore how concepts like opportunity cost, tradeoffs, marginal analysis, and diminishing marginal utility can enhance decision-making for teachers. Learn to prioritize resources effectively, weigh the benefits of instructional strategies, and optimize classroom time for maximum impact. By applying an "economic lens," to instructional design and classroom dynamics, educators can foster student engagement, improve learning outcomes, and achieve greater personal and professional success. Leave with practical AI tools to make more strategic choices in the classroom. Join us to rethink all aspects of teaching through the power of economics!

Varun Gupta, Instructor, Economics, Wharton County Junior College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

The Intersection of AI and OER: Advancing Student Success Through Emerging Technology

AI is revolutionizing Open Educational Resources (OER), transforming how faculty create, scale, and enhance learning materials. This dynamic workshop dives into cutting-edge tools like ChatGPT, Brisk Teaching, and Open Video AI, empowering educators to produce high-quality, engaging, and accessible resources with unprecedented efficiency. Discover bold strategies to harness AI for student success while upholding academic integrity and innovation. Get ready to rethink OER, supercharge your courses, and lead the future of AI-powered education. Don’t miss this game-changing session!

Prakash Mansinghani, Chairperson, Government and Social Science, Professor, Government, Laredo College; Michelle Perez, Director, Center of Teaching Excellence and Learning, Professor, Government, Laredo College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

The Power of Connection: Building Online Communities that Thrive

In today’s digital world, building and nurturing online communities has become a key strategy in supporting students' success and retention. In this interactive workshop, we will explore strategies that contribute to creating thriving online communities that not only engage students but are also supportive, inclusive, and lead to their success.

Diane Schael, Chair, Early Childhood Department, College of Lake County

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

The Relevance to Reality: An Examination of Global Education Initiatives in a Community College

This session will underscore the importance of a global education, specifically within the community college setting. The presentation will chronicle the intentionality and design behind a variety of global education initiatives at Piedmont Community College. From globalizing curricula across multiple disciplines, the institution’s Global Scholars program, monthly passport events, student excursions and field trips, the College’s Pacers’ Perspectives series, and work-based learning and externship opportunities for students, this presentation will outline and discuss the ways in which the college emphasizes the importance of a global education and its impact on students’ understanding of themselves and the complex, ever-changing world in which they live.

Chandler Fry, Instructor, English, Piedmont Community College; David Townsend, Dean, University Transfer and General Education, Piedmont Community College

CAMPFIRE SESSION Student Services, Support, and Well-Being

The Trade-Off of Student Well-Being and Academic Achievement: A Perspective of Multidimensional Student Well-Being

Well-being and academic achievement are two crucial aspects of a student's educational journey. While the pursuit of academic excellence is often considered the primary goal of educational institutions, students' well-being should also be prioritized to ensure a holistic educational experience. There is an exhaustive list of potential tradeoffs when well-being is not ranked as important as academic success, including students’ emotional, mental and cognitive well-being. The relentless pursuit of academic excellence, without an emphasis placed on well-being, can result in a lack of balance in students' lives. This workshop explores the trade-off between student well-being and academic achievement and provides strategies that support the multiple dimensions of student well-being.

Danielle Whetstone, Educational Consultant, University of Texas at Arlington

BREAKOUT SESSION Community and Workforce Partnerships

Trauma-Informed Leadership: Strengthening Workforce Partnerships in Education and Beyond

In today’s workforce, unresolved trauma and stress impact student success, career readiness, and leadership development. This session explores how trauma-informed leadership—rooted in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—can transform education-to-workforce pipelines. Attendees will learn practical strategies for integrating trauma-informed practices into leadership, workforce partnerships, and student support programs. By fostering grit, emotional intelligence, and inclusive learning environments, educators and administrators can strengthen collaborations with industry, government, and nonprofits, ensuring long-term student and workforce success. Whether you are a faculty member, administrator, or industry partner, this session provides actionable insights to build a more engaged, adaptable, and high-performing workforce. Join us to explore how trauma-informed leadership can drive educational excellence and career empowerment.

Cendie Stanford, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, ACEs Matter, Corp

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Unchained: Integrating Formerly Incarcerated Scholars into the Academic Sphere

This session addresses the transformative power of education for formerly incarcerated individuals and explores how higher education institutions can foster an inclusive and supportive environment for these scholars. With an increasing number of individuals re-entering society after incarceration, colleges have a unique opportunity to act as bridges to empowerment, rehabilitation, and societal reintegration. During this presentation I will highlight the systemic barriers these individuals face, including stigma, financial hardships, and limited access to resources, while also celebrating their resilience and the unique perspectives they bring to academic spaces. This series is relevant because it aligns with our mission to provide equitable access to education and foster lifelong learning for all students by creating a supportive space for formerly incarcerated scholars.

Kamara Taylor, Associate Professor, Psychology, Diablo Valley College

BREAKOUT SESSION Student Success and Retention

Understanding how Cohort Models will Maximize Student Success in your Workforce Programs

Designed for Workforce Program Leaders at all levels, this presentation, led by a seasoned workforce education professional with 20 years of experience, explores the impact of cohort models on student success in workforce programs. The presenter has successfully implemented the cohort model at three colleges, achieving retention increases of 25-40%. Attendees will learn the reasoning behind cohort structures, their positive effects on retention and completion rates, and how they boost recruitment efforts. Additionally, the session will cover how cohort models enhance lab space utilization, ensuring maximum efficiency in program delivery. Whether you are considering adopting this model for a new program or seeking to optimize an existing workforce program, this session will provide actionable insights to improve student outcomes and operational efficiency.

Brian Sanders, Director, HVAC and Welding Technology, Collin College, Allen, Texas

BREAKOUT SESSION Leading From the Middle

Unearthing the Hidden Treasure: Elevating and Empowering Adjunct Faculty

Department chairs, join us for an exciting session designed to unearth the hidden treasure within your department—your adjunct faculty. This session offers dynamic strategies to integrate, support, and elevate adjunct instructors as vital contributors to academic excellence. Discover innovative frameworks and actionable tools to promote inclusion, targeted mentorship, and fair compensation. Through engaging discussions and real-life case studies, you will learn how to transform adjunct challenges into opportunities, fostering a collaborative culture that benefits faculty, students, and the entire academic community. Walk away inspired and equipped to champion the growth and success of adjunct faculty, unlocking their potential to drive departmental innovation and elevate teaching and learning outcomes.

Ashanti Foster, Dean, Professional Studies, Prince George's Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Unlocking Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace

This equips higher education employees with practical skills to enhance emotional intelligence (EI) in the workplace. Participants will learn to increase self-awareness, manage emotions, foster empathy, and improve social skills. Through interactive activities and real-world applications, attendees will develop actionable strategies to integrate EI into their daily professional interactions, creating a more supportive and effective educational environment.

Shani Brown, Faculty, Healthcare / Business, Dallas College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Using Riipen to Engage Students With Industry

Explore how we have infused innovation and engagement in the classroom experience for students with an industry partner. Attendees will learn about how we have implemented the Riipen concept into two of our business classes to engage with an organization. We selected a business that posted a challenge or goal of their organization and asked for students and faculty to partner to solve the problem or achieve their real-world goal.

Chunfu (Jeff) Cheng, Chair, Business Department, Community College of Aurora; Julie Stewart, Dean, Academic Success-Workforce and Industry Relations, Community College of Aurora

GENERAL SESSION Teaching and Learning

We Are All Guardians: Teaching, Learning, and Leading as Mission Protection

As confidence in higher education reaches an all-time low, declining enrollments threaten public funding, and legislative priorities force changes to student support programs, community college stakeholders—faculty, staff, administrators, trustees, and others—must work in ways that protect and defend the foundational principles upon which our institutions stand. Drawing on ways that community colleges have evolved over time in response to shifting priorities and expectations, this keynote address provides a roadmap for protecting the institutional mission and social role of our institutions through everyday work to serve students and communities.

Dr. Carrie B. Kisker, President, Kisker Education Consulting

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Wearing All the Hats: Insights from a LMS Admin, Student, and Teacher

In just one year, I transitioned from being an online graduate student to becoming a college classroom educator, all while managing my institution’s Learning Management System. This session explores the lessons learned from my journey, how my background in LMS administration shaped my experience as a student, and its impact on my decisions as a teacher. Participants will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of online education from the perspectives of an ed-tech professional, student, and instructor. Participants will gain practical strategies for improving not just online classrooms, but face-to-face and hybrid classes as well.

Bryana Atkinson, Manager, Online Systems, Spartanburg Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

What K-12 Can Teach Community College Communities

Have you wondered why students come to the community college with fear and inconsistent critical thinking skills? After transitioning from teaching full-time at community colleges to teaching full-time at a high school, I realized that much of my pedagogy was similar and much of it was not. This presentation will focus on the benefits of an inside look into the high school teaching world with an emphasis on engagement strategies and the teacher/student dynamic.

Sharon Prince, Embedded dual credit teacher, English, Houston Community College System

CAMPFIRE SESSION Teaching and Learning

Working Through AI: A Methodology for the Writing Classroom

Generative AI has brought an irreversible sea-change in students’ relation to the written word, and the foundational concept and practice of creating original written work. This campfire session begins with a freewheeling discussion of the problems instructors face at the intersection of AI and college writing. Participants will proceed to model forms of engagement with generative AI, in which problems faced come to be leveraged as strengths; in short, we will explore how AI can subvert the paradigm of rule-bending and come to serve as a productive tool in the writing classroom. (Note: all participants should bring laptops or smart devices for this session.)

Allison Vanouse, Adjunct Professor, English, County College of Morris

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

Working with ESL Students in English Composition and College-Level Courses

Our classrooms continue to reflect large and varied immigrant populations in our communities. Many spend two years in college English as a second language (ESL) programs or even four years in high school before they exit ESL and start taking college level courses. Some enter a community college with some English, and some enter only knowing a few phrases. Many spend two years in the ESL program before they exit it and start taking college-level courses. Unfortunately, two years spent on language, reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills do not guarantee that students will not struggle in content-level courses. The workshop aims to provide college-level instructors with strategies to help these students succeed in their classes and improve their English language skills.

Evgeniya Kozlenko, Associate Professor, ESL and English, Coordinator, ALE, Hudson County Community College; Michelle Vera, Instructor, ESL and English, Coordinator, ESL Pathway 2, Hudson County Community College

BREAKOUT SESSION Teaching and Learning

“It’s in the Syllabus”: Engaging Faculty in a Syllabus Review

Syllabi are often the first point of contact students have with a course, and they set the tone for learning and expectations. By critically reviewing syllabi, faculty can identify and challenge the assumptions, biases, and values that influence their approach to teaching, leading to more inclusive and effective practices. In this session, the presenter will share their experience of leading a Syllabus Review Workshop Series, designed to engage faculty in reflecting on and assessing their teaching practices through the lens of their syllabi.

Judah Leggett, Department Chair, Humanities, Communication, and Creative Arts Department, Northeast Lakeview College