2026 MCEA Fall Conference: Full Schedule

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1:30pm CDT

Thursday October 22, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT

Discover how we transformed a standard two-hour monthly art class into a thriving, high-demand community meet-up. This session breaks down our framework for bridging diverse communities, sparking a genuine joy for learning, and encouraging creative risk-taking. Learn how designing a low-stress environment can lower social barriers, foster creative confidence, and build a sustainable engine for genuine human connection.

Speakers

Laura Campbell

Youth and Adult Coordinator, Access Citywide, 55+, Minneapolis Public Schools

Laura Campbell holds a BFA from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) and serves as the Citywide Access Coordinator for Minneapolis Community Education. Now in her ninth year with the organization, Laura enjoys fostering inclusivity in the arts, dedicating her career to... Read More →

Helene Gautier

Youth and Adult Coordinator, 55+ Citywide, Minneapolis Communtiy Education

Hélène Gauthier holds a degree in Public Relations. In her 19th year with Community Education, she has held positions both youth and adult enrichment and has worked exclusively with the 55+ lifelong Learning program for the last 9 years. She enjoys building relationships within... Read More →

Thursday October 22, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Suite 111 - Lower Level 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

Adult

1:30pm CDT

Award-Winning Ideas in Action: 2025 MCEA Project Award Showcase

Thursday October 22, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT

Suite 101 - Lower Level

Discover three innovative programs recognized as 2025 MCEA Project Award Winners and take home practical ideas you can implement in your own community.
This fast-paced showcase features:

Mahtomedi Schools – Career, Internship & Volunteer Fair (Presenter: Kate Andersen) – Learn how to build meaningful partnerships with local businesses and community volunteers while connecting students to career exploration, internships, and volunteer opportunities.
Faribault Public Schools – School Supplies for All (Presenter: Cassie Riopelle) – Explore how community partnerships and coordinated support can eliminate school supply lists, reduce financial barriers for families, and ensure every student begins the school year ready to learn.
Proctor Public Schools/Hermantown Community Schools – DORA (Driving Opportunities with Recreational Activities) (Presenter: Kristal Berg & Kaitlyn Koehler) – Discover how a mobile recreation program can increase access, strengthen neighborhood connections, and provide high-impact, low-cost programming for children and families.

Whether you're looking to strengthen community partnerships, improve equitable access to programs and resources, or launch innovative initiatives in your district, this session will provide proven strategies from award-winning Community Education leaders.

Participants will:

Learn practical strategies from three award-winning Community Education initiatives that can be replicated in districts of any size.
Discover innovative approaches to engaging community partners, businesses, volunteers, and families.
Gain ideas for increasing access, equity, and participation through creative programming and collaboration.
Leave with actionable tools and inspiration to develop or enhance programs that positively impact students, families, and their communities.

Speakers

Kristal Berg

Director, Proctor Hermantown Comm Ed

Kate Andersen

Director, Mahtomedi Comm Ed

Cassie Riopelle

Director of Community Education and Engagement, Faribault Community Education

Kaitlyn Koehler

Youth Enrichment Coordinator, Proctor/Hermantown Comm Ed

Thursday October 22, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Suite 101 - Lower Level 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

Adult

2:45pm CDT

Building Dynamic Community Partnerships: How 125 LIVE & Rochester Community Education Are Expanding Lifelong Learning

Thursday October 22, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT

Suite 111 - Lower Level

Explore how 125 LIVE and Rochester Community Education built an innovative partnership to create diverse, responsive programming that serves evolving community needs. Learn how collaboration has expanded offerings in arts, fitness, outreach, multi-generational experiences, and educational programming while strengthening community engagement and creating adaptable models for lifelong learning.

Outcomes / Key Takeaways

Identify strategies for building and sustaining successful community partnerships.
Gain ideas for developing diverse programming that responds to changing participant interests and needs.

Speakers

Ken Baerg

Director of Operations, 125 LIVE

With nearly 20 years of experience in the field of exercise and wellness, Ken Baerg has dedicated his career to helping individuals improve their health, strength, and quality of life through evidence-based fitness and rehabilitation programs. Drawing upon his educational background... Read More →

Robin Hoelzle

Program Manager, 125 LIVE

Robin Hoelzle has served as a Program Manager at 125 LIVE for the past five years, where she coordinates and develops a wide variety of programs designed to engage, educate, and inspire active adults. Her programming experience spans diverse areas including fitness, pottery, educational... Read More →

Thursday October 22, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Suite 111 - Lower Level 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

Adult

1:30pm CDT

1:30pm CDT

2:45pm CDT

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