Faculty Colloquium

The Faculty Colloquium is a half-day event designed to bring faculty together for focused professional development. It is held on an annual basis the week prior to the start of the spring semester. The colloquium features a keynote address from a nationally recognized expert in higher education teaching, offering fresh insights and strategies for the classroom. Following the keynote, attendees participate in an interactive Q&A session and a hands-on workshop aimed at practical application. The event also includes a lunch, providing time for informal networking and discussion among colleagues.

2026 Event Information

Keynote Address

Teaching in Turbulent Times: Establishing Presence and Purpose 

The past five years have been immensely challenging for higher education. The isolation of the pandemic, political polarization, and the arrival of AI each ushered in fresh teaching challenges that don’t have simple solutions. Our students are increasingly lonely and turn to digital interactions instead of developing interpersonal skills necessary to navigate professional and personal relationships. We’ll explore practical strategies to establish presence in our teaching and help students find purpose and joy in learning through embodied experiences in traditional classes and digital spaces.

Date: Friday, January 9, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.*
Location: South Stadium Club, Tiger Stadium 

*Breakfast and registration begins at 8:00 a.m. 

Biography of Keynote Speaker

Marc Watkins directs the AI Institute for Teachers and is an Assistant Director of Academic Innovation at the University of Mississippi, where he is a Lecturer in Writing and Rhetoric. He has led research initiatives, exploring generative AI’s impact on student learning, training workshops for faculty on AI literacy, and multiple institution-wide AI institutes. His work with generative AI in education predates ChatGPT and he advocates approaching the technology’s integration in education with curious skepticism. When training faculty in applied artificial intelligence, he believes educators should be equally supported if they choose to work with AI or include friction to curb AI’s influence on student learning. Marc’s work with training faculty in AI literacy has been profiled in The Washington Post. He regularly writes about AI and education on his Substack Rhetorica.

A Message from our Sponsor

This event is sponsored in part by Campus Federal. Campus Federal was established in 1934 by seven employees of Louisiana State University. The bond between Campus Federal and Louisiana State University continues to remain strong. Our mission is to be your trusted financial partner for every stage of your life. We are a forward-thinking financial institution offering flexible, competitive products and exceptional member service. Our commitment to strategic, diversified growth ensures long-term financial stability and strong performance.

 

Accessibility Statement

We strive to host events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Baylee Banta at (225) 578-2665 and bzeringue@lsu.edu. At least two weeks' advance notice will help us to provide seamless access.

Registration

Please reach out to Baylee Banta at bzeringue@lsu.edu with any registration questions.