In his interactive presentation
What does it mean to be human in the age of Al?, Hudson will explore big questions about Al and imagine small ways we can live out our answers to those questions. Participants will learn and talk about what it means to be human in a world where AI can simulate human behavior in many ways. They will consider how AI is affecting the world and our futures and look at the work of researchers, philosophers, and technologists. Then, students will have a chance to think about their own values: What should they think, feel, say, and do in the face of these big ideas? Where are places in school and beyond where we should explore this question?
Eric Hudson is a facilitator and strategic advisor who supports schools and students in making sense of what is changing in education and specializes in focusing on a human centered approach. He has recently spent a decade at Global Online Academy, first as an instructional coach and ultimately as Chief Program Officer, working with schools around the world to rethink where, when, and how learning happens. He also spent 12 years in more traditional classroom settings where he taught English, Spanish, and Journalism to middle school, upper school, and college students. He holds an MA from the University of California, Berkley, and a BA from Cornell University.
A variety of workshops exploring the concepts of authenticity and originality in today’s world will follow the keynote.
WORKSHOPSAfro-Latinx Dance + Activism
The Haus of Glitter Dance Company + Performance Lab + Preservation Society (based in Providence, RI) is a Queer, BIPOC-led collective of artists, educators, and cultural organizers using dance and creative practice to build a more caring, just, and liberated world. Rooted in Global and Afro-Latin Diasporic traditions, the collective merges movement, music, storytelling, and social justice to connect art with community change. Their performances, workshops, and public activations invite participants to explore how movement can become a tool for truth-telling, healing, and collective action. Through projects across the U.S. and abroad—including collaborations with museums, schools, and heritage sites—The Haus of Glitter transforms spaces into classrooms for imagination and care. Their work reminds us that dance can move not only our bodies, but our world.
Tango, Identity, and... Gay Animals?: Composing the queer experience in video games
Alex Ostergard discusses their work composing for video games, with a focus on their current project Campo Largo. The game, effectively a type of playable book called a visual novel, semi-autobiographically retells developer Michael Haycock's experience questioning his Mormon faith and having revelations about his sexuality while on a mission trip to Argentina. Aiming to be authentic to both the setting and to the queer experience depicted, the soundtrack incorporates elements of Argentine music, church music, and game music tropes to enliven the narrative.
Authentic Voice: Telling Our Own Stories
Each person has a unique story, and, at the same time, we have a shared humanity. When we speak what is true for us, and tell personal stories, we invite listeners to get a sense of our lived experiences. Crafting authentic personal stories helps us to reflect on how we interact and show up in various social settings. We can find meaning when we begin to see a narrative arc in our own lives. Telling these stories out loud to others who listen with empathy can be validating and empowering.
“The Human Advantage: What AI Can’t Do for You”
In this interactive workshop, students explore what originality and authenticity look like in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Through a fast-paced activity using real career scenarios, students will determine which tasks can be handed to AI—and which require uniquely human judgment, empathy, creativity, and courage. The goal is to help students see that while AI can support their work, it cannot replace their ability to make meaningful, human-centered choices. Students will leave with a clearer sense of their own “human advantage” and how to bring authenticity into whatever future path they pursue.
Observation and Vision: The Beauty of Authentic Storytelling in the Age of AI
Details coming soon…
Fashion and Color Analysis Business -- How to be Authentic when You are the Brand?
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Design + Architecture
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Modern Art
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Athletics: the College Student Athlete in the Age of NIL
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Q-Focus
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