Keynote Speaker

Thursday, November 13, 2024

8:00 am-10:00 am

Dr. Sharon Pierce

Dr. Sharon Pierce has been a transformative force as President of Minneapolis College since 2016, embodying the institution's Mission, Vision, and Values. Leading the President's Council, she steers the college's strategic direction, cultivating initiatives in collaboration with stakeholders both on and off campus. Dr. Pierce has strengthened partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and education leaders, extending the college's impact beyond its walls. A staunch advocate for urban education, she champions student success and addresses issues of equity in education and workforce development. Under her leadership, Minneapolis College declared itself an anti-racist institution in 2020, reaffirming its commitment to equity and inclusion. Beyond her presidential role, Dr. Pierce serves on several influential boards, including HealthPartners Inc., National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship, Minneapolis Foundation, Minneapolis Workforce Development, and Graywolf Press. With a background spanning nursing, education, and senior administration, she earned her doctorate in Urban Education from Morgan State University, adding depth to her dedication at the intersection of healthcare and education. Dr. Pierce's career, marked by roles such as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of the Nursing Education Program at Howard Community College, reflects her unwavering commitment to advancing education and healthcare in tandem.

Endnote Speaker

Saturday, November 16, 2024

9:00 am-11:00 am

Dr. David R. Arendale

David R. Arendale, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor Emeritus in the Curriculum and Instruction Department at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (UMN). Arendale investigates best practices of equity programs, learning assistance, and academic interventions supporting improved student achievement, inclusion, and persistence. He takes part in several writing groups, including Colleagues of Color for Social Justice, the Alliance for Postsecondary Academic Support, and a team that produced the third edition of a glossary for our profession. Arendale is the founder and editor of the EOA Best Education Practices Clearinghouse for TRIO Programs. For three decades, Arendale taught an introductory global history course which he embedded with best learning practices. At the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Arendale was the National Project Director of Supplemental Instruction. Arendale managed learning centers at three institutions. His research and publications are available at www.arendale.org and his podcasts and social media are at www.davidmedia.org