Welcome to the School of Education’s annual event ElevatED: Passion to Profession presented by Dean Christopher Morphew!
The event draws together current students, alumni, staff and faculty to learn, celebrate, and support each other along rich and varied career paths. Participants will explore how to connect (or reconnect) with their passion while building or evolving a meaningful professional career.
This year’s event will feature an immersive life design experience, ten interactive workshops, focused mentoring and a plenary discussion hosted by Dean Christopher Morphew. For participants attending on campus, lunch will be provided, and the day will close with a Baltimore-themed dessert reception. Door prizes and networking opportunities will round out the experience for both in-person and virtual participants.
Doors open in-person at 10 a.m. and virtual doors open at 10:20 a.m.
Join us online
Can't join us in person? Join us online! Click the link below for our virtual event
10:30 to 11 a.m.
Good Work: An Immersive Life Design Experience
“Good Work” - What does 'good work' mean to you? It's more than just a job—it's about purpose, values, and fulfillment. Our workshop helps you reflect on the meaning of work in your life, empowering you to thrive where you are and envision your next big move. Define your path to meaningful work and a more purposeful career!
Patrick Brugh, PhD
Patrick Brugh, PhD, directs the Center for Staff Life Design at JHU. With 20 years of experience in secondary and higher education, he has worked for Loyola University Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, and Deloitte Consulting. He has been a life design educator for five years.
Lena Jackson, MS '19
Lena Jackson has guided students in career planning, academic support, job search, and professional growth using life design strategies since 2018. Her experience includes roles as educational advocate, communications consultant, ADHD coach, and White House policy analyst, as well as career development and success counselor for the School of Education.
Patrick Brugh, PhD
Patrick Brugh, PhD, directs the Center for Staff Life Design at JHU. With 20 years of experience in secondary and higher education, he has worked for Loyola University Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, and Deloitte Consulting. He has been a life design educator for five years.
Lena Jackson, MS '19
Lena Jackson has guided students in career planning, academic support, job search, and professional growth using life design strategies since 2018. Her experience includes roles as educational advocate, communications consultant, ADHD coach, and White House policy analyst, as well as career development and success counselor for the School of Education.
11 to 11:15 a.m.
Welcome and Announcements
Dean Christopher Morphew will begin the day with a warm welcome to all participants of the event. Whether you are joining us online or in-person, this welcome will introduce you to our exciting program and what is in store for you as you explore the different career paths and opportunities that lie in front of you. Stick around for a chance to win a door prize before heading into your breakout sessions!
Christopher C. Morphew, PhD
Christopher Morphew, PhD, has served as dean of the Johns Hopkins School of Education since 2017. During his tenure, the school has increased sponsored research funding, introduced innovative master’s programs, and secured endowed professorships. His latest book, Creating Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive Schools, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press in 2024.
Jennifer Pelton
Jennifer K. Pelton, MA, CFRE is the Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations at the School of Education. With more than 30 years of professional experience, she has raised funds and led teams in arts, human services, and civil legal service organizations focused locally, nationally and internationally.
Christopher C. Morphew, PhD
Christopher Morphew, PhD, has served as dean of the Johns Hopkins School of Education since 2017. During his tenure, the school has increased sponsored research funding, introduced innovative master’s programs, and secured endowed professorships. His latest book, Creating Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive Schools, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press in 2024.
Jennifer Pelton
Jennifer K. Pelton, MA, CFRE is the Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations at the School of Education. With more than 30 years of professional experience, she has raised funds and led teams in arts, human services, and civil legal service organizations focused locally, nationally and internationally.
11:25 to Noon
Breakout Sessions 1
Navigating Your Career: Networking, LinkedIn & Beyond
In this workshop, we’ll cover foundational networking skills for career advancement, and strategies to share your professional goals, experiences, and mission with others. Through reflection and discussion (drawing from resources by Simon Sinek and Andrew Simonet), you’ll come away with a better understanding of the “what”, “why”, and “how” of your career and how to express your professional identity and mission through tools like LinkedIn and a professional website, among others. Participants will develop an understanding of networking outcomes using LinkedIn and other tools. Participants will learn how to share their experiences, skills, and identity/mission through online tools and other communications.
Christina Manceor, EdD '24
Christina Manceor, EdD, is a percussionist, adjunct faculty member, and assistant director of LAUNCHPad career services at Peabody Conservatory. She teaches career development, manages experiential learning programs, and performs as a freelance musician. Christina earned her doctoral degree from JHU and music degrees from Peabody and the University of Michigan.
Aisha Almond, EdD '23
Aisha Almond, EdD, founder of Reach1 Teach1 Consulting Group, champions initiatives supporting first-generation and underrepresented students. A former Baltimore principal, she launched an early college program and developed the Critical College Persistence Model during her doctoral studies at JHU. She mentors women professionals and volunteers with the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation.
Christina Manceor, EdD '24
Christina Manceor, EdD, is a percussionist, adjunct faculty member, and assistant director of LAUNCHPad career services at Peabody Conservatory. She teaches career development, manages experiential learning programs, and performs as a freelance musician. Christina earned her doctoral degree from JHU and music degrees from Peabody and the University of Michigan.
Aisha Almond, EdD '23
Aisha Almond, EdD, founder of Reach1 Teach1 Consulting Group, champions initiatives supporting first-generation and underrepresented students. A former Baltimore principal, she launched an early college program and developed the Critical College Persistence Model during her doctoral studies at JHU. She mentors women professionals and volunteers with the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation.
Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Coaching for Educators
What are the secrets to transformative coaching for educators? Get fresh insights from the creator of an approach that leading experts have called "a total game changer in the field of induction and mentoring," and come away with the keys to reigniting passion for the profession!
Ruidy Ruiz, EdD '23
Rudy Ruiz, EdD, is founder and CEO of Edifying Teachers and an adjunct faculty member at the School of Education. His organization mentors teachers globally, addressing shortages through culturally sustaining mentorship. Recognized for his data-driven approaches to diversifying the workforce, he is a national leader in rehumanizing education through connection.
Ruidy Ruiz, EdD '23
Rudy Ruiz, EdD, is founder and CEO of Edifying Teachers and an adjunct faculty member at the School of Education. His organization mentors teachers globally, addressing shortages through culturally sustaining mentorship. Recognized for his data-driven approaches to diversifying the workforce, he is a national leader in rehumanizing education through connection.
Higher Ed Careers Uncensored: A Fireside Chat
Two people. Two careers in higher education. Two scholars studying the field they work in. Join this insightful conversation between Dean Chris Morphew and current PhD student Bingyao Hu for their perspectives on the field -- looking back and looking forward. (In-person only)
Bingyao Hu
Bingyao Hu, a doctoral student at JHU, researches equity in higher education access, transnational education, and student mobility. With a background in mathematics and international education policy, she bridges K-12 and higher education. Previously, she worked as a higher education administrator at a joint-venture university, focusing on cross-cultural collaboration.
Christopher C. Morphew, PhD
Christopher Morphew, PhD, has served as dean of the Johns Hopkins School of Education since 2017. During his tenure, the school has increased sponsored research funding, introduced innovative master’s programs, and secured endowed professorships. His latest book, Creating Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive Schools, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press in 2024.
Bingyao Hu
Bingyao Hu, a doctoral student at JHU, researches equity in higher education access, transnational education, and student mobility. With a background in mathematics and international education policy, she bridges K-12 and higher education. Previously, she worked as a higher education administrator at a joint-venture university, focusing on cross-cultural collaboration.
Christopher C. Morphew, PhD
Christopher Morphew, PhD, has served as dean of the Johns Hopkins School of Education since 2017. During his tenure, the school has increased sponsored research funding, introduced innovative master’s programs, and secured endowed professorships. His latest book, Creating Safe, Healthy, and Inclusive Schools, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press in 2024.
From Passion to Commitment: Incorporating Mentorship, Sustainability and Wellness in Career Development
This session will assist participants with incorporating mentorship and wellness to sustain their career aspirations and development. As result of attending this workshop participants will: (1) Understand the role mentors play in pursuing and maintaining a career. (2) Recognize how to focus on commitment when passion may diminish. (3) Know strategies to ensure sustainability and wellness in career development.
Erik Hines, PhD
Erik M. Hines, PhD, professor at George Mason University, prepares graduate counselors and researches Black male academic and career outcomes. His work spans parental involvement, STEM career exploration for students of color, and equity-based postsecondary transitions. He has secured over $12.5M in funding and authored more than 80 publications.
Erik Hines, PhD
Erik M. Hines, PhD, professor at George Mason University, prepares graduate counselors and researches Black male academic and career outcomes. His work spans parental involvement, STEM career exploration for students of color, and equity-based postsecondary transitions. He has secured over $12.5M in funding and authored more than 80 publications.
Leveraging Appreciative Inquiry: From Education to Consulting
Appreciative inquiry is a powerful approach that helps individuals develop inner strength by focusing on what works well in their lives rather than solely on problems. When faced with challenges, instead of simply trying to solve them, we can ask ourselves questions that lead us to discover new insights and solutions. This process encourages us to explore our experiences, build upon our strengths, and appreciate the positive aspects of our situations. By removing judgment and embracing a mindset of curiosity, we can celebrate our achievements and the best parts of ourselves. This shift in perspective not only enhances our quality of life but also positively impacts those around us, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Jen Townsend, MEd '10
Jen Townsend, founder of Universal Access Consulting, specializes in appreciative inquiry, universal design for learning, and social neuroscience. A JHU graduate and the author of Think Differently: An Educator's Approach to Appreciate What Works, Jen empowers educators and families to create meaningful change through innovative practices.
Jen Townsend, MEd '10
Jen Townsend, founder of Universal Access Consulting, specializes in appreciative inquiry, universal design for learning, and social neuroscience. A JHU graduate and the author of Think Differently: An Educator's Approach to Appreciate What Works, Jen empowers educators and families to create meaningful change through innovative practices.
12:10 to 12:45 p.m.
Breakout Sessions 2
Educator & Counselor Wellness: Strategies for Thriving
In the session Educator & Counselor Wellness: Strategies for Thriving, participants will learn how to prioritize their well-being while managing the unique challenges of their roles. Participants will explore practical strategies for building resilience, practicing self-care, and maintaining emotional balance to thrive personally and professionally. By the end, participants will have actionable tools to foster a sustainable, fulfilling career while preventing burnout and enhancing their overall wellness.
Rufus Tony Spann, PhD, MS '10
Rufus Tony Spann, PhD, founder of Libido Health, is a certified sex therapist and Forbes Health Advisor. Formerly a school psychologist and USC professor, he bridges sexual health and wellness gaps through his inclusive health app. He holds advanced degrees from Howard University and Johns Hopkins University.
Rufus Tony Spann, PhD, MS '10
Rufus Tony Spann, PhD, founder of Libido Health, is a certified sex therapist and Forbes Health Advisor. Formerly a school psychologist and USC professor, he bridges sexual health and wellness gaps through his inclusive health app. He holds advanced degrees from Howard University and Johns Hopkins University.
International Opportunities for Educators: The Fulbright Program as a Tool for Professional Growth and Development
Fellowships like the Fulbright US Student Program, the US State Department’s flagship program, offer a wide range of teaching and research opportunities abroad. While these are highly prestigious awards that support international English language instruction, independent research, or graduate study, these programs offer educators numerous pathways to gain valuable teaching experience or conduct international research. Our workshop will highlight specific opportunities that relate most closely to School of Education graduate students. This includes an overview of the application process, advice on how and when to begin, and a discussion of how the National Fellowships Program team supports applicants.
John Milstead, PhD
John Milstead, PhD, is assistant director of the Scholars & Fellows Programs, advising applicants seeking external fellowships and scholarships at JHU. John completed his own dissertation research as a Fulbright Scholar and has also supported fellowship applicants at Iowa State University and Washington University in St. Louis.
Kathleen Barry, PhD
Kathleen Barry, PhD, a fellowships advisor at JHU, helps students secure nationally competitive scholarships. Formerly a historian and Mellon Fellow at Cambridge, she authored Femininity in Flight. A Harvard graduate with a PhD from NYU, she combines her academic and public history expertise to guide students in reflective and strategic self-advocacy.
John Milstead, PhD
John Milstead, PhD, is assistant director of the Scholars & Fellows Programs, advising applicants seeking external fellowships and scholarships at JHU. John completed his own dissertation research as a Fulbright Scholar and has also supported fellowship applicants at Iowa State University and Washington University in St. Louis.
Kathleen Barry, PhD
Kathleen Barry, PhD, a fellowships advisor at JHU, helps students secure nationally competitive scholarships. Formerly a historian and Mellon Fellow at Cambridge, she authored Femininity in Flight. A Harvard graduate with a PhD from NYU, she combines her academic and public history expertise to guide students in reflective and strategic self-advocacy.
Passion to Purposeful Research: Freedom Dreaming for Community Empowerment
We, as Black PhD students at Johns Hopkins University, seek to engage the Johns Hopkins community in this workshop, using our position within the academy to affect positive change for Black communities aiming to first, to practice critical reflexivity by inviting community members beyond academia who are impacted by our education systems. We aim to share power in our academic spaces by amplifying the voices of those directly affected by educational inequities. Second, we will engage in freedom dreaming—envisioning actionable steps to connect our insights to the realities of our education system. This workshop is inspired by Walter Rodney, a self-titled “Guerilla Intellectual.” Rodney situated himself within the community, and we aim to follow his example by centering Racial justice-oriented scholarship that benefits people through collective learning and freedom dreaming. (In-person only)
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Devin T. White
Devin T. White, a doctoral candidate at JHU, studies barriers and supports for Black students and faculty in STEAM fields. His dissertation focuses on Black graduate student parents in STEM education. Devin is developing a website documenting 400 years of racism and resistance in STEAM disciplines.
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Zariah Nicole
Zariah Nicole, an Educational Equity Fellow and doctoral student at JHU, researches Black experiences, language, and education as socialization. She contributes to the R-RIGHTS team, focusing on justice and equity in STEAM disciplines. Her work highlights Black practices of sustenance and Afrofuturism within educational contexts.
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Noah Nelson
Noah Nelson, a doctoral student at the School of Education, examines the intersections of education and activism. His research highlights Black teachers as sociopolitical organizers, exploring their roles in shaping social movements and transformative change historically and contemporarily.
Devin T. White
Devin T. White, a doctoral candidate at JHU, studies barriers and supports for Black students and faculty in STEAM fields. His dissertation focuses on Black graduate student parents in STEM education. Devin is developing a website documenting 400 years of racism and resistance in STEAM disciplines.
Zariah Nicole
Zariah Nicole, an Educational Equity Fellow and doctoral student at JHU, researches Black experiences, language, and education as socialization. She contributes to the R-RIGHTS team, focusing on justice and equity in STEAM disciplines. Her work highlights Black practices of sustenance and Afrofuturism within educational contexts.
Noah Nelson
Noah Nelson, a doctoral student at the School of Education, examines the intersections of education and activism. His research highlights Black teachers as sociopolitical organizers, exploring their roles in shaping social movements and transformative change historically and contemporarily.
Educational Entrepreneurship: A Fireside Chat
In this session, Josh Ambrose, the director of Student Ventures at the Pava Center will discuss funding, framing, and launching ideas into action. He will be in conversation with Dr. Jodi Miller, an SOE alum and founder of WellCheq, Abby Coyle, co-founder and CEO of ClassBank, and Katie Gracey, member of the ClassBank team.
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Josh Ambrose
Josh Ambrose, director of the Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship at JHU, accelerates ventures to drive change and expand opportunities in Baltimore and beyond. With a diverse higher-education background, he supports innovation and community impact through entrepreneurship.
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Jodi Miller, PhD
Jodi Miller, PhD, is founder of WellCheq, a digital tool for improving emotional wellbeing now used by over 500 educators and 15,000 students. A former biology teacher, she earned her doctorate at JHU and focuses on emotional health’s impact on academic success.
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Abby Coyle
Abby is the Co-Founder and CEO of ClassBank. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Abby founded EDvance Tutors, a micro-schooling organization that provided high-quality academic support to students and families. Currently, Abby is building ClassBank, a digital platform that teaches financial literacy through hands-on experiences and promotes positive behaviors in K-12 classrooms.
Josh Ambrose
Josh Ambrose, director of the Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship at JHU, accelerates ventures to drive change and expand opportunities in Baltimore and beyond. With a diverse higher-education background, he supports innovation and community impact through entrepreneurship.
Jodi Miller, PhD
Jodi Miller, PhD, is founder of WellCheq, a digital tool for improving emotional wellbeing now used by over 500 educators and 15,000 students. A former biology teacher, she earned her doctorate at JHU and focuses on emotional health’s impact on academic success.
Abby Coyle
Abby is the Co-Founder and CEO of ClassBank. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Abby founded EDvance Tutors, a micro-schooling organization that provided high-quality academic support to students and families. Currently, Abby is building ClassBank, a digital platform that teaches financial literacy through hands-on experiences and promotes positive behaviors in K-12 classrooms.
Interrupting Bias in the Workplace
Biases act as mental shortcuts to understanding our world. Sometimes, those shortcuts are harmless, but often they can lead to actions and words that are harmful to members of minoritized groups. This workshop will help participants recognize different types of biases as well as offer tactics that can be used to address them in the moment. The presentation will also address practical applications to the workplace setting. This workshop is for anyone who would like to be better prepared to intervene when biases start to cause harm.
Niara Perry
Niara Perry (they/them) works in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the School of Education, executing initiatives to foster inclusivity. They hold DEI workplace certificates from Cornell and USF and are pursuing a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology. Niara published a poetry book, Mourning a Stranger, in 2021.
Alex Parker
Alex Parker, a doctoral candidate in the School of Education, researches stress, burnout, and emotional labor in K-12 educators, focusing on gender dynamics and challenges for teachers of color. With 11 years of public school teaching experience, he also explores restorative justice implementation in U.S. schools.
Niara Perry
Niara Perry (they/them) works in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the School of Education, executing initiatives to foster inclusivity. They hold DEI workplace certificates from Cornell and USF and are pursuing a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology. Niara published a poetry book, Mourning a Stranger, in 2021.
Alex Parker
Alex Parker, a doctoral candidate in the School of Education, researches stress, burnout, and emotional labor in K-12 educators, focusing on gender dynamics and challenges for teachers of color. With 11 years of public school teaching experience, he also explores restorative justice implementation in U.S. schools.
12:45 to 1 p.m.
Lunch
1 to 1:30 p.m.
Mentoring Match Ups and Online Networking Sessions
During lunch, connect with one of our mentors for a mini-mentoring session, fostering meaningful career advice and conversation in specific topics. Learn more about your career path and the opportunities that await you. These sessions will help provide you with the guidance and skills for success.
Online Networking
Choose from three different topics in education from leadership success to work in the counseling field
In-Person Mentoring
With seven topics to choose from, participants can find their perfect match-up and learn from top professionals in the field
Online Networking
Choose from three different topics in education from leadership success to work in the counseling field
In-Person Mentoring
With seven topics to choose from, participants can find their perfect match-up and learn from top professionals in the field
1:40 to 1:50 p.m.
Regroup Remarks and Door Prizes
1:50 to 2:40 p.m
Dean's Plenary Session
Educational Innovation & Leadership: Pathways to Impact (hybrid)
End the day at the Dean’s Plenary Session – a session designed to encapsulate the vibrant day of workshops, career architecture, and connection. Hear from Dean Christopher Morphew and others as we end the day and step into the next chapter with newfound tools and excitement as we ignite our passion!
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Thomas Thompson, MSEd ‘23
Thomas Thompson, CEO of Eduaide.Ai, researches generative AI in education. A former social studies teacher, he explores open educational resources and learning communities. Thompson co-founded Muckraker Media and earned degrees from Slippery Rock University and Johns Hopkins, focusing on education technology.
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Wanda Erinle, MSEd '09
Wanda Scott Erinle, founder of WE Consulting Solutions, brings 30 years of experience as a network engineer, educator, and diversity coach. A JHU graduate, she specializes in DEI, cultural competency, and leadership development. Wanda’s innovative coaching empowers leaders to authentically shine and foster change.
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Sookhee Plotkin, EdD '09
Sookhee K. Plotkin, EdD, assistant principal in Montgomery County Public Schools, champions culturally responsive teaching and technology integration. A JHU graduate, she has served as an ESOL teacher and instructional technology specialist, fostering inclusive, high-quality learning environments throughout her career.
Thomas Thompson, MSEd ‘23
Thomas Thompson, CEO of Eduaide.Ai, researches generative AI in education. A former social studies teacher, he explores open educational resources and learning communities. Thompson co-founded Muckraker Media and earned degrees from Slippery Rock University and Johns Hopkins, focusing on education technology.
Wanda Erinle, MSEd '09
Wanda Scott Erinle, founder of WE Consulting Solutions, brings 30 years of experience as a network engineer, educator, and diversity coach. A JHU graduate, she specializes in DEI, cultural competency, and leadership development. Wanda’s innovative coaching empowers leaders to authentically shine and foster change.
Sookhee Plotkin, EdD '09
Sookhee K. Plotkin, EdD, assistant principal in Montgomery County Public Schools, champions culturally responsive teaching and technology integration. A JHU graduate, she has served as an ESOL teacher and instructional technology specialist, fostering inclusive, high-quality learning environments throughout her career.
2:45 to 3 p.m.
Final Remarks
Join Counseling student Kavya Dave and other participants as we close out the day's events. Kavya will share the student perspective and reflect on the work done today and what the future has in store!
Kavya Dave
Kavya Dave is a counseling student at Johns Hopkins University passionate about mental health and fostering empathy. Known for her creativity, critical thinking, and strong listening skills, Kavya thrives in collaborative environments. She values personal growth, enjoys creative writing and dance, and is committed to promoting mental well-being.
Kavya Dave
Kavya Dave is a counseling student at Johns Hopkins University passionate about mental health and fostering empathy. Known for her creativity, critical thinking, and strong listening skills, Kavya thrives in collaborative environments. She values personal growth, enjoys creative writing and dance, and is committed to promoting mental well-being.
3 to 3:30 p.m.
Dean's Reception and Networking
After the event, In-person attendees are invited to join Dean Christopher Morphew for a Maryland-themed dessert reception for a chance to connect with peers, colleagues, and speakers and we bid farewell to ElevatED: Passion to Profession 2025! Online participants are invited to a Networking session hosted by Carey Borokoski.
Dessert Reception
After the event, you are invited to join Dean Christopher Morphew for a Maryland-themed dessert reception for a chance to connect with peers, colleagues, and speakers and we bid farewell to ElevatED: Passion to Profession 2025!
Networking & Next Steps
Ready to put your P2P insights into action? Join Carey Borkoski for this interactive virtual session to connect with other participants and begin to design what's next professionally. Share what resonated from today's program, build new professional relationships, and walk away with concrete steps for your career journey ahead.
Dessert Reception
After the event, you are invited to join Dean Christopher Morphew for a Maryland-themed dessert reception for a chance to connect with peers, colleagues, and speakers and we bid farewell to ElevatED: Passion to Profession 2025!
Networking & Next Steps
Ready to put your P2P insights into action? Join Carey Borkoski for this interactive virtual session to connect with other participants and begin to design what's next professionally. Share what resonated from today's program, build new professional relationships, and walk away with concrete steps for your career journey ahead.
Join us online
Can't join us in person? Join us online! Click the link below for our virtual event