Across VCCS, around 30% of our post-high school students are over the age of 25. People who are older than “traditional" college students bring a wide range of experiences that are important to consider as we engage with them as learners. Explore best practices to support these adult learners, including practical strategies to make your work more flexible, inclusive, and impactful. 

Presenter: Tally Botzer, Coordinator of Professional Development | VCCS System Office

In this session, we will discuss practical, evidence-based strategies to create inclusive and structured environments for neurodiverse learners. We will explore proactive classroom management techniques and universal design principles that support diverse cognitive styles while maintaining academic standards. By the end of the session, instructors will have actionable tools to reduce classroom anxiety, manage behavioral dynamics, and foster success for all students.

Presenter: Dr. Cynthia R. Deutsch, Professor of Psychology and the Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence | Central Virginia Community College

In this session, we will discuss how to go beyond traditional assessments to measure student learning. Participants will discuss different types of authentic assessments, the benefits associated with alternative assessments, and how they can be applied in different disciplines. 

Presenter: Alissa Cruz, English instructor and Co-Director of the Teaching and Learning Center | Blue Ridge Community college

We are taught that AI removes engagement and humanity and ethics, but it can actually improve them. In this session, gain a solid introduction on how faculty can use AI to align course objectives, assist with assessments, and preserve academic integrity.

Presenter: Megan VanBuskirk, Dean of Online Programs and Learning Support | Germanna Community College

If you thirst for more work-life balance, this interactive session will give you a jumpstart. You’ll explore the reasons work-life balance is critical, identify time challenges, and gain practical strategies to gain balance. 

Presenter: Tarena Caffee, Circulation Supervisor | Tidewater Community College

In this panel discussion, participants will learn about various approaches to building a faculty career that leverages connections across Virginia’s community colleges. You’ll hear about the benefits of engaging in peer groups and governance activities at your college and beyond. There’s no need to travel solo on the journey to create a fulfilling career. 

Presenters: 

Araceli Bachner, Professor | Northern Virginia Community College

Dirk Burruss, Professor of Information Systems Technology | Reynolds Community College

Jeff Hollar, Human Anatomy & Physiology Professor | Laurel Ridge Community College

Donna Levy, Associate Professor of English | Reynolds Community College

George Studtmann, Engineering Instructor | Virginia Western Community College

Building a quality relationship with your dean is essential to establishing professional capital in the academic realm. In this session, gain a better understanding of the dean’s role, the dean’s priorities, and what deans need from faculty members to help the academics division run efficiently and effectively. Plus, these deans will share their journeys in a way that may inform your thoughts about climbing the academic ladder. 

Presenters: 

Dr. Melissa Arthur, Dean of Nursing, Allied Health, and Natural Sciences | Southside Virginia Community College

Dr. James "Jay" Gillispie, Dean of Languages, Arts, and Social Sciences, Manassas Campus | Northern Virginia Community College

Dr. Nancy Sévère-Barnett, Dean of Business, Engineering, and Technology | Brightpoint Community College

Dr. Brian Wright, Dean of Arts & Sciences | Southwest Virginia Community College

Some faculty may not think about planning career development. As one faculty member put it: We grade papers, grade more papers, then we die. However, it does not have to be that way. You can build a robust career with the support of your dean that allows you to focus on teaching excellence and service to students and the community. Learn how to leverage the annual professional development objectives process and hear ideas on ways to enhance your career along the way. 

Presenters: 

Dr. Andréa Palmisano, Professor of Psychology | Tidewater Community College

Dr. Tiffany Randall, Dean of Mathematics, Science, Health, and Human Services | Brightpoint Community College