Adjunct Faculty Conference

The Future Is In Our Classrooms

Connected by Purpose. Empowered to Teach. Inspired to Innovate.

Saturday, April 3, 2027 | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Virtual Event Hosted by Adjunct Services at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) 

Who Should Attend?

• Adjunct Faculty
• Lecturers
• Counselors
• Librarians
• Workforce Instructors
• Academic Leaders

Overview

Higher education is evolving, and adjunct faculty are at the heart of that transformation. As artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and changing student needs reshape the educational landscape, the importance of human connection, collaboration and purposeful teaching has never been greater.

The Future Is in Our Classrooms celebrates the essential role adjunct faculty play in shaping the student experience while providing opportunities to explore innovative instructional practices, strengthen professional connections and navigate the changing realities of today's classrooms.

Through engaging conversations, interactive workshops, collaborative learning experiences and opportunities for reflection, participants will explore how innovation and human connection can work together to enhance teaching and learning. The conference will recognize the expertise, contributions and diverse perspectives adjunct faculty bring to the college while providing practical strategies to support their continued success.

Grounded in a shared commitment to student success, this conference invites faculty to embrace change with confidence, connect with colleagues through a shared purpose and leave empowered with new ideas and tools to inspire learning in the classrooms of today and tomorrow.

Call for Proposals

Share Your Expertise

Adjunct Services invites proposals for engaging interactive presentations that support teaching excellence and student success.

Session Format

• 45-minute presentation

Presenter Benefits

• Conference recognition
• Professional development contribution
• Networking opportunities
• Digital certification of appreciation

Registration is Free

Registration includes:

• Opening Session
• Keynote Address
• Three Concurrent Learning Sessions
• Networking Opportunities
• Conference Resources
• Professional Development Certificate

Agenda

Keynote

The Future of Teaching Is Human: Finding Our Purpose in the Age of AI

Artificial intelligence has created one of the most significant disruptions in higher education, raising concerns about academic integrity, student learning and the future of teaching. But what if the most effective response to AI isn't found in new detection technologies or restrictive policies, but in the teaching practices we already know work? This presentation challenges educators to move beyond a mindset of catching students using AI toward one of intentionally designing learning experiences that promote critical thinking, engagement and meaningful assessment. Drawing on the science of teaching and learning, we will explore how clear expectations, purposeful assignments, authentic assessment and human connection can help faculty navigate an AI-integrated educational environment. Through practical examples and a forward-looking perspective, participants will discover that the future of education isn't simply about adapting to technology. It's about empowering faculty to teach with purpose, innovate with intention and keep human learning at the center of our classrooms.

Keynote Speaker

Vincent Granito, Ph.D., is a professor of psychology and faculty chair of the Teaching and Learning Center at Lorain County Community College. He serves as co-chair of the college's AI Task Force for Teaching and Learning and previously served as an AI Faculty Fellow.

A nationally and internationally recognized presenter, Dr. Granito has delivered more than 130 presentations on artificial intelligence, innovative teaching practices, and assessment in higher education over the past three years. He has also authored book chapters and articles in national publications focusing on the intersection of artificial intelligence, teaching and learning in higher education.

His work emphasizes helping educators integrate AI responsibly while promoting student engagement, critical thinking and meaningful learning. Dr. Granito was recipient of the American Psychological Association's Wayne Weiten Teaching Excellence award, which recognizes the top two-year college psychology professor in the country.

Program

Full program details will be shared closer to the event.

Survey

Thank you for being part of this event. Afterward, you will receive a brief survey, and we encourage you to share your thoughts. Your feedback helps us continue creating meaningful and engaging experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Should Attend?

• Adjunct Faculty
• Lecturers
• Counselors
• Librarians
• Workforce Instructors
• Academic Leaders

Will professional development credit be available?

Tri-C adjunct faculty are eligible to receive two SEUs toward the Adjunct Development and Professional Training (ADAPT) program for attending the full conference.

Is registration required?

Yes. Advance registration is required to attend.

Can I present and attend?

Absolutely! Presenters are encouraged to participate in other conference sessions.

Will session materials be available?

Conference materials will be shared electronically following the event.