Held at the beginning of the fall semester, the Tools for Teaching Conference is our premier event designed to support, inspire, and equip faculty and staff with effective strategies for teaching and student success. Each year, the conference focuses on a central theme in teaching and learning, offering a blend of theory, research, and hands-on practice to help educators refine their craft.
Our keynote speakers have included renowned authors and higher education thought leaders such as:
In addition to thought-provoking keynote sessions, the conference features practical, hands-on workshops, ensuring that faculty leave with concrete tools and strategies they can immediately apply in their courses. In past years, we have hosted interactive AI learning stations, allowing faculty to explore various AI applications in education, and engaging breakout sessions tailored to the evolving needs of our teaching community.
Whether you're looking to revitalize your teaching, explore innovative approaches, or connect with colleagues, the Tools for Teaching Conference provides a dynamic and supportive space to prepare for a successful academic year.
Join us for a powerful and inspiring talk by Dr. Cate Denial, award-winning educator and author of The Pedagogy of Kindness. Attendees will have a chance to win a copy of her book! Dr. Denial will explore how kindness—grounded in justice, belief, and imagination—can transform our teaching practices, reframe our understanding of rigor, and foster more inclusive, human-centered learning environments.
This session is for anyone who teaches or supports students and is seeking practical, meaningful ways to lead with compassion while maintaining high expectations.
In The Pedagogy of Kindness, Dr. Denial shares her own journey as an educator navigating trauma, burnout, and renewal. Through a blend of memoir and educational insight, she offers a call to reimagine what it means to care in the classroom. Her work has been celebrated as “a generous, vulnerable invitation to reorient how we show up for ourselves and others in higher education.” Learn more here.
Dr. Cate Denial is the Bright Distinguished Professor of American History at Knox College and an award-winning teacher and writer. She is widely recognized for her work on inclusive pedagogy, faculty development, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. Known for her warmth and authenticity, Dr. Denial inspires educators to bring humanity and care back into their work.
Date: Friday, September 19
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM (Lunch buffet to follow at 12:30 PM)
Location: Library basement auditorium
A delicious buffet lunch will be served immediately following the event.
There will also be book giveaways for attendees!