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Missouri Teacher of the Year
Keynote Speaker
Jennifer.Jones@LSR7.net

Opening Ceremony Keynote
EMBRACING INDIVIDUALITY: THE TEACHER YOUR STUDENTS NEED

In this engaging and interactive session, I will explore the powerful message that every aspiring educator has a unique role to play in shaping students’ lives. Through a mix of movement, discussion, and reflection, attendees will discover that the kind of teacher they become will be exactly what some students need.

Jennifer became the 56th Missouri Teacher of the Year since the program’s inception in 1957.

MRTA Executive Director
MariaWalden@MRTA.org

Closing Ceremony Keynote
INSPIRING THE FUTURE: YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS TODAY

Maria Walden has extensive knowledge regarding retirement systems, working with elected officials, collaborating and building consensus with other entities who support state retirement systems, and communicating effectively with multiple audiences. Beyond her 14 years with PSRS/
PEERS, she served as the Assistant Executive Director for the Missouri Parks and Recreation Association, and in leadership roles for the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions, and Professional Registration.

Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education
Jefferson City Schools
Troy.Hogg@JCSSchools.us

SESSION IN HAZEL 302, REEVES LIBRARY
“FINDING SUCCESS AND LONGEVITY IN AN EDUCATIONAL CAREER"

In his presentation, Dr. Hogg focuses on guiding soon-to-be graduates in finding success and building a fulfilling, long-lasting career in education, offering practical advice and encouragement to help them thrive as they embark on their professional journey.

Dr. Troy S. Hogg brings over three decades of experience in public education, having served as a teacher, administrator, and leader in diverse school districts. With a passion for innovation in education, Dr. Hogg has successfully established STEM academies, launched free preschool programs, and spearheaded curriculum improvements. His leadership and dedication to excellence have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the Missouri Distinguished Principal Award from KCEPA in 2020.

Legislative Director
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ’s Education Association
BHale.26@WCMO.edu

I am a junior at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ majoring in Physical Education. I am an active member of the Education Association and play as a defensive lineman for the Westminster football team.

SESSION IN HAZEL 311, REEVES LIBRARY
BRIDGING THE GAP: HOW FEDERAL, STATE, & LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHAPE EDUCATION

In this session, aspiring educators will explore the key differences between the responsibilities of state, local, and federal governments in shaping education policy. Participants will gain insight into how
each level of government influences curriculum, funding, and school operations. Additionally, the session will highlight recent and ongoing education-related legislation in Missouri, providing students with a practical understanding of how laws impact schools at the state and local levels. This session will equip future educators with the knowledge to navigate the legal landscape of education and advocate for effective policy changes.

Legislative Director
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ’s Education Association
CGoodwin@WCMO.edu

I am a senior at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ who is double majoring in Secondary Education and History. I am a member of multiple campus organizations and a member of Phi Theta Kappa, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Alpha Chi honor societies.”

SESSION IN HAZEL 311, REEVES LIBRARY
BRIDGING THE GAP: HOW FEDERAL, STATE, & LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHAPE EDUCATION

In this session, aspiring educators will explore the key differences between the responsibilities of state, local, and federal governments in shaping education policy. Participants will gain insight into how
each level of government influences curriculum, funding, and school operations. Additionally, the session will highlight recent and ongoing education-related legislation in Missouri, providing students with a practical understanding of how laws impact schools at the state and local levels. This session will equip future educators with the knowledge to navigate the legal landscape of education and advocate for effective policy changes.

Librarian
Reeves Library
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ
Victoria.Knight@WCMO.edu

SESSION IN REEVES LIBRARY (1ST FLOOR)
BOOK BANS: WHO DECIDES?

Join us while we explore the critical issue of book banning in education. We will examine the difference between challenges and bans, analyze real-world examples of banned books, and discuss strategies for navigating censorship and promoting intellectual freedom in the classroom.

Victoria Knight graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Arts in English, and a Master’s in Library and Information Science in 2018, and currently is working towards a Certification in Archival Studies from Louisiana State University. Victoria worked at Maryville University in St. Louis as the Head Research Librarian before coming to Ï㽶ÊÓƵ as the Director of Library Services in 2021.

Assistant Professor of Museum Studies & History
Coordinator of the Museum Studies Program
Ï㽶ÊÓƵ
(573) 592-5401 • Nichol.Allen@WCMO.edu

SESSION IN NATIONAL CHURCHILL MUSEUM
MUSEUMS IN EDUCATION: AMERICA’S NATIONAL CHURCHILL MUSEUM

Come one, come all—don’t miss out on this exciting journey through history! Join Dr. Nichol Allen for an engaging and lively tour of America’s National Churchill Museum, where history comes to life! Discover how
the past can be fun, fascinating, and full of surprises.

Tours start every half hour from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and last approximately 20 minutes.

Dr. Nichol Allen, Professor of Museum Studies and History Born in a small town with a rich history, Nichol developed a passion for the past from an early age. After high school, she joined the military, traveling extensively and immersing herself in diverse cultures and histories. These experiences deepened her appreciation for the ways people and places shape the world. When she began college, she realized her true calling was teaching—and she pursued that goal with unwavering dedication.

Technology Integration Specialist
MOREnet
The MILL
MartinRob@UMSystem.edu

SESSION IN HAZEL 301, REEVES LIBRARY
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR EDUCATORS

Let’s explore how Generative AI tools can help with lesson planning, activity creation, grading support, and more, for future teachers and experienced teachers alike! As a teacher, you want as much time as possible to focus on students. Learn practical ways future educators can leverage AI to enhance learning while keeping the human touch.

Bob is an experienced adult educator with over 20 years of experience, including 18 years specializing in technology integration in education. At MOREnet, Bob has been at the forefront of researching and implementing Artificial Intelligence in K-12 education. Over the past year, he has focused on how AI can be used by teachers, introduced to students, and integrated into the learning process. In the year, Bob has successfully introduced over 1500 teachers to AI tools and techniques through interactive presentations and custom classes