2026 MCEA Fall Conference: Full Schedule

11:15am CDT

Space: The Final Frontier - Teaching Space Science to Your Community

Friday October 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT

Space exploration is advancing rapidly, and many people are curious and excited about it. In this session you’ll discover some tools, tips, and resources you’ll need to teach your own space lessons to students of all ages, in order to help motivate and prepare them for humanity’s future in space. Plus, you’ll get a take-home space lesson starter kit.

Speakers

Ben Joslin

Planetarium Director, Rochester Public Schools

Ben Joslin is the Director of Rochester Public School’s Planetarium at Mayo High School. He grew up loving space, being inspired by Star Trek, and building model rockets and Lego spaceships. He graduated with a degree in science education from the University of Arizona, and has... Read More →

Friday October 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
Suite 110 - Lower Level

Youth Programming, Adult

1:15pm CDT

Pause. Notice. Connect. Forest Therapy Practices for Wellbeing and Community Education

Friday October 23, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT

Suite 111 - Lower Level

Experience forest therapy, an evidence-informed practice that supports wellbeing through sensory engagement and mindful attention. Participants will take part in a guided mini forest therapy walk and leave with practical nature-based strategies they can use personally or adapt for community education programs.

Outcomes

Describe how forest therapy supports wellbeing through sensory engagement and mindful attention.
Practice simple nature-based techniques that can be used for personal wellbeing and stress regulation.
Identify opportunities to incorporate nature-based experiences into community education programming.

Speakers

Nicole Brudos Ferrara

Owner, Damselfly Forest Therapy

Nicole Ferrara is a certified forest therapy guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and founder of Damselfly Forest Therapy in Rochester, Minnesota. She guides nature-based experiences that invite people to slow down, engage their senses, and deepen their connection... Read More →

Friday October 23, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Suite 111 - Lower Level 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, MN 55904, USA

Youth Programming, Wellness, Adult

2026 MCEA Fall Conference

11:15am CDT

Ben Joslin

1:15pm CDT

Nicole Brudos Ferrara

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