Below is a list of live presentations.

Leadership Starts With You

Leadership is not defined by a title, position, or academic major; it is a skill every student can develop. This interactive discussion will examine how effective leaders build trust, inspire purpose, and create environments where people feel valued. Students from all majors are invited to gain practical strategies they can apply in college, their careers, and their communities.

Presenters: Dr. Donna Matanane, Dr. Jean Sampson

Location: PAC 222

Implicit Bias: Welcoming New Ideas and Different Perspectives

Biases can occur consciously or subconsciously; they are the brain's inherent ability to associate patterns. While implicit biases do not always hinder interactions, being aware of potential biases can help individuals better understand how these biases may influence their interactions, perceptions, and behaviors toward others.

Presenters: Angela K. Gilbreth DNP, RN, CLS, EBP-C

Location: PAC 220

Open Source Software: No-cost alternatives to expensive brands

Explore the best free software for video/audio editing, documents and spreadsheets, note-taking, graphic design and print, screen capture, live streaming, media encoding/playback, animation, 3D modeling, file sync, and password management. Discover how to find and install this software, and locate learning materials for their use.

Presenters: Sam Speer

Location: PAC 218

ALL IN Party at the Polls!

Your voice matters! Discover how government, politics, and the issues affecting your community connect to your everyday life. Hear from voters across generations as they share their experiences and perspectives on democracy. Join us throughout the day for conversations and activities celebrating the importance of civic engagement and voting!

Presenters: All In Committee

Location: PAC 216

Build Before You’re Ready: Small Decisions, Strong Relationships, and the Career You Create Along the Way

Learn from a McKendree alumnus about how small decisions, meaningful relationships, and unexpected opportunities can shape your career path after graduation. Discover how stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors to personal and professional growth.

Presenters: Cory Berberich '18, LCPC

Location: PAC 214

Below is a list of live presentations.

Rest Is a Skill: Four Ingredients of Real Recovery

Taking time away from responsibilities does not always leave people feeling restored. This interactive session introduces four research-informed recovery experiences: psychological detachment, relaxation, mastery, and control. Students will apply this framework to identify at least one practical way to make the time they already have more restorative.

Presenters: Calvin Wertman

Location: PAC 222

Teamwork When Your Team Sucks(the Life Out of You): How to Work With Difficult People

Let’s be honest: teamwork sounds great until you’re stuck with someone who doesn’t communicate, misses deadlines, takes over, or simply doesn’t pull their weight. This interactive session will explore practical communication strategies for navigating difficult teammates, managing conflict, setting expectations, and contributing to a team—even when you didn’t get to choose the team.

Presenters: Dr. Sara Frank

Location: PAC 220

Career Kickoff: The First Year in the Real World

Transitioning from student to workplace life is a challenging yet exciting time. This session addresses topics such as workplace etiquette, seeking out a mentor, navigating workplace dynamics effectively, challenges new employees face and how to overcome them, and more.

Presenters: Anna Leitner

Location: PAC 218

Doing Good for a Living:  Careers in Nonprofits and Philanthropy

Explore how a passion for social good can become a profession. This session introduces students to careers in nonprofits and philanthropy, highlighting the skills, opportunities, and challenges of doing good for a living.

Presenters: Christie Derbin

Location: PAC 216

A Loser Tells You How to Win

What does it really take to succeed when others doubt your potential? From being labeled a “loser” in high school to earning multiple advanced degrees and becoming a published author and speaker, Rev. Dr. Cecil Penn shares his inspiring journey of overcoming obstacles and defying expectations. This session encourages students to embrace challenges, develop a winning mindset, discover their passions, and create a vision for their future.

Presenters: Rev. Dr. C. Ray Penn ’70

Location: PAC 214

Below is a list of live presentations.

Balancing Academics and Athletics in College: Succeeding in Both Arenas

Balancing academics and athletics at the collegiate level requires more than just time management; it demands intention, discipline, and support systems that empower student-athletes to succeed in both arenas.  This session explores strategies for thriving in both arenas by developing transferable skills, building a personal performance system, and choosing daily habits that reflect long-term goals.  Success isn’t about doing it all perfectly, it's about doing it all with purpose and resilience.

Presenters: Nickie Sanlin

Location: PAC 222

McKendree Alumni Panel - Career Advice

McKendree alumni who majored in political science will offer advice on starting and growing careers. Kenneth Herman (Class of 2006) works for the Department of Defense in geospatial analysis; Zachary Kilhoffer (Class of 2013) is a Product Manager in AI Governance at Dynatrace; Tabitha Meador (Class of 2005) is the Director of Economic Development in Salem, Illinois; and Tony Mitchell (Class of 2010) is the Senior Director of Government Affairs at Gilead Sciences.

Presenters: Dr. Brian Frederking, Kenneth Herman, Zachary Kilhoffer, Tabitha Meador, Tony Mitchell

Location: PAC 220

I Don't Know How She Does It...Neither Does She

In this candid session, Dr. Allie Helfrich challenges the idea that successful women have somehow mastered the perfect balance between motherhood, career, and ambition. Drawing from her own experiences as a mother and professional, she explores the constant reprioritizing, support systems, and imperfect choices that come with building a life where both family and career matter.

Presenters: Dr. Allie Helfrich

Location: PAC 218

Know Yourself, Speak Up, and Think It Through

Success in college and everyday life involves more than academic achievement; it requires self-awareness, effective communication, and strong critical thinking skills. Throughout this interactive and informative presentation, audience members will explore how to recognize personal strengths, navigate challenges, communicate their needs efficiently, and make thoughtful decisions. Through discussion and reflection, attendees will explore practical strategies to build confidence, support and strengthen relationships, as well as build continued success in college and beyond the classroom.

Presenters: Emma Riley, Karyn Wilson

Location: PAC 216

Career Ready: Understanding the McKendree Career Ecosystem

Students will be introduced to the McKendree Career ecosystem and learn how their classes, campus involvement, leadership roles, jobs, athletics, service, and other experiences help them build career-ready skills. Students will also learn about the new co-curricular badge system and how they can begin earning badges for career competencies developed outside the classroom.

Presenters: Dr. Jennifer Miller

Location: PAC 214

Below is a list of live presentations.

Know Yourself, Speak Up, and Think It Through

Success in college and everyday life involves more than academic achievement. It requires self-awareness, effective communication, and strong critical thinking skills. Throughout this interactive and informative presentation, audience members will explore how to recognize personal strengths, navigate challenges, communicate their needs efficiently, and make thoughtful decisions. Through discussion and reflection, attendees will explore practical strategies to build confidence, support and strengthen relationships, as well as build continued success in college and beyond the classroom.

Presenters: Emma Riley, Karyn Wilson

Location: PAC 222

NO MORE ICEBREAKERS: An Introvert’s Guide to Success

Our culture often rewards the people who speak first, network effortlessly, and somehow seem excited about “going around the room and introducing themselves.” Drawing in part from Susan Cain’s Quiet, this panel explores why introverts may be overlooked, the strengths they bring to work and leadership, and why being quiet does not mean having nothing to say. We’ll also share practical strategies for succeeding in an extrovert-friendly world—without forcing yourself to become the loudest person in the room. (I promise, I won't make you introduce yourself!)

Presenters: Dr. Rich Murphy

Location: PAC 220

Social Emotional Learning in the Classroom

Explore how emotional awareness can help us better understand ourselves and others in the classroom and workplace.

Presenters: Ms. Nikki Brown

Location: PAC 216

Career Ready: Understanding the McKendree Career Ecosystem

Students will be introduced to the McKendree Career ecosystem and learn how their classes, campus involvement, leadership roles, jobs, athletics, service, and other experiences help them build career-ready skills. Students will also learn about the new co-curricular badge system and how they can begin earning badges for career competencies developed outside the classroom.

Presenters: Dr. Jennifer Miller

Location: PAC 214

Below is a list of live presentations.

From Stressed to Your Best: Managing College Pressures

This session will help students understand the sources and impact of stress in college life. It teaches practical, evidence-based strategies— mindfulness, reframing, self-compassion—to manage pressure in healthy ways. The presentation empowers students to view stress as a normal part of growth and to develop stress management strategies through balance, awareness, and support.

Presenters: Melissa McHenry

Location: PAC 222

Ciao, Educators! Teaching and Learning in Italy

Participants will journey through Italy to discover how culture, history, and education come together beyond the classroom. Along the way, they will explore how studying abroad can spark fresh ideas, broaden perspectives, and inspire future teaching.

Presenters: Dr. Alexandra (Niki) Owens

Location: PAC 220

Personality Traits, Self-Awareness, and Leadership Styles! Oh My!

What makes a great leader? It starts with knowing yourself! Explore how your personality traits, strengths, and weaknesses shape the way you lead, influence others, and make decisions—and discover how self-awareness can help you turn your unique qualities into your greatest leadership strengths.

Presenters: Dr. Mary McKee

Location: PAC 218

Introduction to Genially

Students! Ever need to give a presentation, design an infographic, or create a timeline and you want it to be interactive, so that you don't have to do all the talking? Genially is the tool for you! Through Genially (a free tool) you can design interactive presentations, infographics, timelines, concept maps, games, and review activities to help demonstrate your understanding of course content and support your study skills. 

Presenters: Dr. Jen Barr-Starms

Location: PAC 216

Resume Ready: Essential Strategies for Professional Success

This presentation offers essential strategies for crafting a standout resume, focusing on how to effectively present your skills, experiences, and achievements. Attendees will learn techniques to enhance their professional image both on paper and in person to increase their chances of securing job opportunities.

Presenters: Dr. Allie Helfrich

Location: PAC 214

Join a conversation with McKendree alumni whose lives and careers have taken unique and unexpected turns. Find out how they have found growth in lifelong learning using the foundations developed while at McKendree to achieve life and career goals.

Jim Polarine '93 Studied Biology, Principal Consultant, Technical Services at STERIS Corporation

A biology graduate of McKendree, Jim Polarine is a Principal Consultant of Technical Services at STERIS Corporation, where he has spent more than 25 years specializing in microbial control and contamination prevention. An award-winning industry expert, Jim has lectured around the world, contributed to scientific publications, and taught industry professionals and regulators. He also holds a master's degree in biology from the University of Illinois. Outside of his professional career, Jim pursues a unique passion for storm chasing, tornado research, and weather safety.

Brian Scott '00 Studied Marketing, Owner/Vice President - Managing Partner at Stryde Staffing Agency

A marketing graduate and former McKendree baseball player, Brian Scott is the Owner and Managing Partner of Stryde Staffing Agency, a St. Louis-based firm specializing in professional staffing and recruitment. After building a successful career in the staffing industry, Brian took an entrepreneurial leap in 2019 to launch his own company. He was recently inducted into the McKendree Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 1999–2000 baseball team.

Jackie (Busekrus) Jackson '08 Studied Accounting and Finance, Director of Finance at Pairwise and Dressage Trainer at Marshall Show Stable

An accounting and finance graduate of McKendree, Jackie Jackson serves as Director of Finance at Pairwise, where she brings a passion for problem-solving, business growth, and empowering teams. Beyond her corporate career, Jackie has turned her love of horses into an entrepreneurial venture as a dressage trainer and riding instructor at Marshall Show Stable. Her journey reflects the value of pursuing personal passions while continuing to grow professionally.

Sarah (Goetze) Anderson '17, '18 Studied Sociology/Criminal Justice, Executive Director at Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Centers

A graduate of McKendree's sociology, criminal justice, and professional writing programs, Sarah Anderson serves as Executive Director of the Franklin-Williamson Child Advocacy Center. She leads efforts to support children and families affected by abuse, working alongside law enforcement and community partners. A trained forensic interviewer and dedicated child advocate, Sarah was recently honored with McKendree's 2026 Academy of Excellence Award in Social Sciences.

Location: THE HETT

Leadership Isn't a Position You Wait For - It's a Choice You Make.

Leaders are not just born. Anyone can be a leader if they have a few basic skills. Let's have some fun and learn some basic leadership skills.

Presenters: Dr. Donna Matanane, Dr. Jean Sampson

Location: PAC 218

Math Majors Make Good

Open to all students, this session will provide an update on the careers of three successful McKendree graduates.

Presenters: Brad Copelin, Noah Crocker, and Shannon Sanders

Sponsors: Dr. Alan Alewine and Jamie Pace

Location: PAC 222

Join us at the Major/Minor Fair, where curiosity meets opportunity! Whether you're just starting your academic journey or considering a new direction, this event offers the perfect space to explore programs, connect with faculty, and discover how your passions can shape your future.

Location:

PAC Lobby

Creating an Atmosphere of Self-Care

Lifelong Learning Exploration Day provides the opportunity for a high-quality educational experience rooted in the principles of responsible citizenship, engagement, academic excellence, and lifelong learning. The Division of Nursing will be hosting an online active discussion on self-care from 12pm-1pm. Attached is an article on self-care within healthcare. Nursing students attending the event should read the article in preparation for active discussion. If attending, two hours towards current practicum will be obtained.

Article:

Education on Self-Care (PDF)

Location:

Teams Link

Meeting ID: 294 286 138 890 191 6

Passcode: df2W5hU7

The Power of Positive Leadership

Build a great culture, lead with optimism, develop a connected and committed team, and achieve results. The research is clear. Being a positive leader is not just a nice way to lead - it's THE way to lead if you want to build a great culture, develop a connected and committed team, and achieve goals.

Presenters: Dr. Kelly Stewart

Location: Hybrid/PAC 220

Empowering Your Path to Success

Learn how intentional self-development and critical thinking can help you make informed career decisions, build professional confidence, and create a meaningful path toward your future goals.

Presenters: Ms. Kelly Kendrick, Dr. Jennie Fowler-Williams

Location: Hybrid/PAC 116

Ciao, Educators! Teaching and Learning in Italy

Participants will journey through Italy to discover how culture, history, and education come together beyond the classroom. Along the way, they will explore how studying abroad can spark fresh ideas, broaden perspectives, and inspire future teaching.

Presenters: Dr. Niki Owens

Location: PAC 114

Introduction to Google Gemini for Education

In this session, participants will explore how this new era of generative technology can help handle the 'heavy lifting' of instructional design, allowing you to scale the best practices you already value. To do this, participants will be introduced to a personal AI assistant for teaching and learning: Google- Gemini for Education. Participants will work through a few learning scenarios. At the end of the presentation, participants will take a short quiz to earn a completion badge/micro-credential. Note: Participants should bring their own devices.

Presenters: Dr. Julie Tonsing-Meyer

Location: Hybrid/PAC 220

Introduction to Genially

Students! Ever need to give a presentation, design an infographic, or create a timeline and you want it to be interactive, so that you don't have to do all the talking? Genially is the tool for you! Through Genially (a free tool) you can design interactive presentations, infographics, timelines, concept maps, games, and review activities to help demonstrate your understanding of course content and support your study skills.

Presenters: Dr. Jen Barr-Starms

Location: Hybrid/PAC 116

From Good to Great: Simple Strategies to Improve the Depth and Quality of your Work

Are you tired of getting feedback that your answers are too surface-level or missing the big picture? In this session, you'll learn some simple, powerful ways to transform your assignments from "basic" into complex, deeply reasoned arguments. We will look at concrete examples of how to connect your ideas, defend your points, and show true mastery of the material. Walk away with practical strategies you can use immediately on your next paper or project to boost the depth and the quality of your work.

Presenters: Dr. Jennie Winters

Location:

Zoom Link

https://mckendree.zoom.us/my/drwinterszoom

Building Your Professional Brand as an Educator

Your professional brand begins long before your first teaching position. In this session, we will discuss effective communication, professional presence, and relationship-building that can help you stand out in the classroom, the workplace, and throughout your educational career. Participants will leave with practical tools and strategies they can immediately apply in their university coursework, field experiences, and future careers.

Presenters: Mrs. Samantha Krieg

Location: Hybrid/PAC 220

SEL in the Classroom and Workspace

Make your classroom more effective and enjoyable. Understand that social-emotional learning can help you gain more academic time and help with classroom management.

Presenters: Mrs. Nikki Brown

Location: Hybrid/PAC 116

The Art of Lifelong Learning: A Drawing and Painting Demonstration

Join two experienced university artists—a faculty member and a staff member—for an engaging drawing and painting demonstration exploring the role of art in lifelong learning. Using a live model, the artists will share their creative processes, experiences, and insights on how they have sustained their artistic practices throughout their lives. Students are invited to connect with the artists, ask questions, and participate by drawing alongside them, experiencing firsthand how creativity and learning continue to evolve over time.

Presenters: Jeffrey Nihiser, Jane Rix

Location: Benson Wood