Sessions

Narrative is a rich and compelling element of vocational writing, both personally and professionally. Moreover, it is a platform for enhancing pedagogy, scholarship, reflection, and self-narration. It can also enrich academic writing. Few higher education professionals are trained in the art of personal narrative, however. This pre-conference workshop will equip participants with tools and practices for crafting vocational stories. The workshop will include instruction on craft, a range of writing activities, and practice with the art of giving and receiving constructive feedback within a community of writers. Participants will leave the workshop with seeds for a future project. Writers of all experience levels are welcome. 

Experiential learning reinforces the authentic, relational experiences that transformative education can foster—experiences at the heart of our universities’ missions and critical value propositions. This pre-conference workshop explores the intersection of vocation and community-engaged learning (CEL), emphasizing the benefits of deepening our vocational discernment practices with students who are engaged in the powerful work of CEL. The workshop will include practical tools, shareable assignments, and expert resources to deepen vocational discernment with students. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions, develop an activity or assignment connecting vocation with community-based teaching, and gain strategies for sustainable integration across courses and institutions.

Calling all poets and poetry lovers! This session will feature volunteers of all levels of mastery to share a favorite poem, be it their own work or someone else’s that they admire. All conference participants are invited to this time of relaxed and informal sharing, and the roles of audience and readers are equally valuable.

An optional gathering led by CIC President Marjorie Hass. Participants from all faith traditions are welcome. Host: Marjorie Hass, President, CIC