BETHANY COLLEGE TO HOST THIRD ANNUAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Advancing Innovation and Excellence in PreK-12 Learning
LINDSBORG, KS. November 20, 2025 — Bethany College will host its third annual Education Conference on Saturday, April 11, 2026, offering an interactive, intergenerational learning experience for veteran educators, future teachers, and anyone exploring a career in education. This year’s event will once again focus on practical, innovative strategies designed to strengthen PreK–12 learning across Kansas.
The 2026 conference will provide attendees with hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and opportunities to earn professional development points or two graduate credit hours. Participants will also have the chance to collaborate with peers, connect with leaders in the field, and engage in conversations about the future of education.
Featured Speakers Include:
- Chris Perry – Executive Director of Cultivate Education; behavior specialist and state-trainer
- Beth Clavenna-Deane – Senior Program Associate at WestEd; expert in MTSS and inclusive instructional practices
- Rachel E. Finnell – Assistant Professor of Political Science; focuses on civic engagement and student simulations
- Mary Ellen Hodge – State Trainer with Technical Assistance Systems Network (TASN) and Autism Tertiary Behavior Supports (ATBS); former classroom teacher and district leader in special education
- Paula Hough – Director of Teaching and Learning at Emporia, KS; veteran educator with expertise in personalized learning and curriculum
- Stephanie Stindt – Literacy specialist with 30+ years in education; graduate-level instructor in reading & literacy
- Janell Neer – Kansas State Department of Education associate; focuses on the science of reading and dyslexia support
- Brittany Torres – Director of Learning Systems & AI Initiatives at Bethany College; leads campus AI and learning ecosystem projects
- Mark McDonald – Veteran faculty member at Bethany College; expertise in biology, curriculum reform, sustainability, and campus leadership
- Emily Rude – Assistant Professor of Biology at Bethany College; specializes in genetics, environmental science, and connecting research with the classroom
- Molly Mosher – Behavior consultant & adjunct professor at Bethany College; strong background in special education and statewide professional development
- Daniel Magie – Upcoming presenter
For biographical details and full session listings, visit: www.bethanylb.edu/education-conference-speakers This year’s conference will feature three focused learning threads: Science of Reading, AI in Education, and Academic & Behavioral Interventions. In addition to these specialty tracks, presenters will share practical techniques, emerging best practices, and classroom-ready strategies relevant to educators across grade levels and content areas.
Registration is now open, with early registration beginning March 1, 2026. More information, pricing, and registration details are available at: www.bethanylb.edu/education-conference The event is organized by the Bethany College Education Department, one of the oldest accredited
teacher preparation programs in Kansas, and supported by faculty, staff, and partners across campus.
About Bethany College
Bethany College (bethanylb.edu) is a higher educational institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas. Bethany College was established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881. For more than 140 years, Bethany College has been dedicated to educating, developing, and challenging individuals to pursue truth and excellence while leading lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany College, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who support them as they discover, explore, and navigate their purpose. Bethany College is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
CONTACT: Christie Denniston
Vice President of Advancement & Alumni Engagement
dennistoncl@bethanylb.edu
303-827-5164
Bethany College
335 East Swensson Street
Lindsborg, KS 67456
