Living-Learning Programs Conference

Bannister delivers keynote address, K-State faculty part of panel at Living-Learning Programs Conference

Oct. 27, 2014 — Stephanie Bannister, associate director of housing and dining services, presented the keynote address at the Living-Learning Programs Conference, Oct. 25-27, in Kansas City, Missouri.

The address "Charting a Course to Connectedness" explored the evolution of campus residential environments into integrated communities that combine the strengths of student affairs professionals and faculty to provide an enhanced experience.

Following the presentation, a panel of K-State faculty led a discussion to identify ways in which attendees can facilitate collaboration at their respective institutions. The panel, moderated by Carlie Ness, area coordinator for student recruitment and academic support, and Kyle Evans, assistant coordinator for departmental initiatives, included:

• Charles "Chuck" Sanders, associate professor of history, instructor for the American Story Residential CAT Community and a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching;
• Emily M. Lehning, assistant vice president for student life, director of new student services and the student life connect for K-State First;
• Gregory Eiselein, professor of English, university distinguished teaching scholar and director of K-State First;
• Don Saucier, associate professor of psychological sciences, instructor for the Psychology of Prejudice Residential CAT Community, chair of the K-State First Research and Assessment Committee, and a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching; and
• Jenna Brack, former learning assistant coordinator for K-State First and instructor of English at Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley.

The conference was hosted by the Association of College and University Housing Officers-International, and focused on ways to better engage students and faculty to create environments that foster diversity, leadership, academic success and personal growth.