Welcome!

Welcome to UPCEA’s 98th annual conference, Disruption 2.0: Game-Changers in Professional, Continuing, and Online Education.

Last year’s annual conference in Portland was shaped by the discourse of “disruption theory.”  This year, in Boston, we continue the conversation with a special focus on how our institutions are responding to disruption with innovative “game changers” that are truly re-shaping higher education. 

Agility, entrepreneurial spirit, ability to innovate and the propensity for risk taking have always defined our profession.  Now more than ever, those qualities are in high demand.  In what ways can we seize this unique opportunity to provide leadership in a time of dramatic transition, positioning ourselves as critical game changers on our campuses? 

This year’s conference will also provide us the opportunity to reflect on our future from different perspectives. If, at its core, disruption is about economic growth, how do we stay true to our core values and mission as continuing educators in the world of MOOCS, social media and the growing opportunity gap for increasing segments of the population? 

Meet Anya Kamenetz, an educational futurist and speaker on issues facing the millennial generation. Recognized as an “Educational Gamechanger" by Huffington Post, Kamenentz will share insights on change, technology and talent. 

Next, on Thursday, Jack Wilson explains how an effective distance education platform can spur economic development at the state level and transform higher education. Finally, Robert Sheets and Stephen Crawford introduces us to the "innovation space," on Friday. This is the space within higher education incorporating technology and entrepreneurship that can ultimately lead to better business models.   

Last but not least, Boston provides plenty of opportunities to network with your colleagues, new and old. So step out and enjoy a city renowned for its cultural and educational institutions, world class restaurants, and historic Freedom Trial. 

Looking forward to seeing you in Boston in April.

Bea Gonzalez
Chair, 2013 UPCEA Annual Conference Advisory Committee
Syracuse University