Good Ideas Conference - 40th Annual!
Tuesday-Thursday | January 7-9, 2025
UWSP Wausau Campus and Live Online!
Additional Interests, Adult Fine Arts, Lectures, Live Training and Classes, Retirement Learning, See Stevens Point Offerings, See Wausau Offerings
Good Ideas Conference 
Tuesday-Thursday | January 7-9, 2025​
UWSP Wausau Campus in-person or online.
You choose how to attend!

​Thank you for joining us for 2025. See you in 2026!

Details


A University Experience for Adults! Join a group of adult lifelong learners for an enriching three-day conference.  A January thaw for your mind and spirit. 

Attendance Options

Offered in-person or select virtual options. You choose how to attend!

Please see below for out of town attendees

​​​Scholarships

Scholarships are available. Please contact Mara Prausa at mprausa@uwsp.edu for more information.

Register Online

​​
  • Regular: $85
  • LIFE member and UWSP Alumni: $75 (will be confirmed)
  • Lunch Add-on: $48
  • DISC Assessment class add-on: $25 (for the DISC assessment)​​


Paper Registration​


​For those who prefer to mail in their registration, please follow the instructions below:


Complete the form above and mail to:

Continuing Education, UW-Stevens Point 
2100 Main St. Rm 032 Old Main ​
Stevens Point, WI 54481

For additional information or assistance with registration, please email Customer Service at uwspceweb@uwsp.edu or call 715-346-3838.

Hotel Blocks


This year we are offering hotel blocks for out of town attendees! View the options below.


‭(Hidden)‬ Jefferson Street Inn

 


Jefferson Street Inn  
Rooms held until Dec. 6
Ask for the "Good Ideas" block for a rate of $145 (per night) plus tax.

‭(Hidden)‬ La Quinta





La Quinta
Rooms held until Dec. 2
Ask for the "Good Ideas" block for a rate of $94 (per night) plus tax.


‭(Hidden)‬ Hampton Inn




Hampton Inn
Rate of $149 plus tax.
Call the hotel directly, 715-848-9700, refer arrival/departure dates and "Good Ideas Conference" Room bloc​​k.

Direct weblink is https://group.hamptoninn.com/0usq0x (Please be advise if link does not open, copy and paste into a new browser.)​



​Recorded Classes

All  hybrid class sessions will be recorded and available to view for one month after the date of posting. The recordings will be posted within 2 weeks of the end of the conference and will be accessible by anyone who registered for Good Ideas. This provides an opportunity for you to view all programs, so if there is more than one morning or afternoon class you are interested in, no need to worry! This is also a great opportunity for those who cannot attend the conference live due to prior commitments!

Zoom Basic Training Assistance


Join us for Zoom Basics Training where we will go over all the basic functionalities of Zoom and answer any questions you may have!

To get started, click here for our Zoom Tutorial Help page! For additional help, email uwspcelife@uwsp.edu

​Program Information


Daily Schedule

Conference Schedule for 2025

8:30-8:45 a.m.​
​Coffee and Chat (Student Union)
​8:45-9 a.m.
Welcome and Announcements 
​9-10 a.m.
​General Sessions 
10-10:30 a.m.
Morning Break
10:30 a.m.-Noon
Morning Class (See "Morning Classes" Below)
​Noon-1 p.m.
​Lunch
​1-2:30 p.m.
​Afternoon Class (See "Afternoon Classes" Below)
​2:45-3:45 p.m.
General Sessions and Last Day will be a Reception

Zoom Links will be sent separately closer to the conference.

Good Ideas: Morning General Sessions | 9-10 a.m.

Tuesday, January ​7 *offered hybrid

How to Lie with Maps: Navigating Truth and Fiction in Cartography​​ with Lisa Siewert (Senior Lecturer, Department of Geology & Geography, UWSP)

Ever wonder how maps shape our perception of the world? Join us to uncover the surprising ways maps can mislead, reveal hidden truths, and influence our view of geography, politics, and beyond​

Elizabeth Siewert is a seasoned geoscience educator with over a decade of teaching experience at UWSP. With a deep foundation in geology, cartography, and GIS, she brings expertise in how maps shape our understanding of the world. ​


Wednesday, January 8 *offered hybrid

Welcoming our New Neighbors: Refugee Resettlement 101 with Tana De Lonay (Community Engagement Coordinator)

Participants will learn about refugee resettlement in Central Wisconsin. Topics will include the history of local refugee resettlement agency-ECDC Multicultural Community Center, an overview of the resettlement process, and stories about welcoming our new neighbors.

Tana joined ECDC in January 2024. She has worked with hundreds of youths, adults and families in traditional human service settings for over 12 years. Tana holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology and is currently pursuing an MBA in Applied Leadership and Decision-Making from UW-Stevens Point. ​


Thursday, January 9 *offered hybrid

From skaldic verse to Icelandic art song: the transformation of “Þat mælti mín móðir”​ with Dr. Dana Carlson-Kottke

This lecture presentation dives into Icelandic song tradition and medieval performance practice; including the intersectionality of Icelandic literature in poetry and prose, oral tradition, and musical settings of Icelandic Saga texts while incorporating views on medieval and contemporary culture studies, including a demonstrative experience for the audience via the performance of three solo song settings of the famous Icelandic verse “Þat mælti mín móðir.”

Alum of University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and recent graduate from The Ohio State University, Dr. Carlson-Kottke is delighted to be teaching two choral ensembles at UWSP and UWSP at Wausau as well as private voice lessons at the Wausau Conservatory of Music. Research interests include Icelandic language, literature and vocal repertoire as well as evidence-based pedagogical practices within the choral rehearsal and private voice studio.​


Morning Classes | 10:30 a.m.-Noon (choose one)

​1. Cambodia and Myanmar: Past and Present *Offered Hybrid

Paul Whitaker (Assistant Dean, UWSP School of Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry​)

In May, Paul was the only natural scientist in a group of 16 faculty from across the US on a trip to Cambodia for a two-week seminar on political, human rights, economic, and environmental issues in Cambodia and Myanmar. Originally scheduled for Myanmar in June 2020, the trip was postponed by the COVID-19 pandemic and then by the military coup in Myanmar. With the civil war continuing in Myanmar, the seminar was relocated to Cambodia. This class will explore how past events have shaped some of the the contemporary issues facing these two developing southeast Asian countries.

After 25 years teaching biology and related classes, mostly at the Wausau campus, Paul accepted his current administrative position in July 2024. In May, he joined 14 other faculty from various disciplines and from across the US on a trip to Cambodia for a two-week seminar on political, human rights, economic, and environmental issues in Cambodia and Myanmar.​

​2. Growing Your Creative Garden

Nancy Laliberte (Artist, Nancy Laliberte Fine Art​​)

Begin the new year dreaming of spring and the gardening season. We’ll break out the garden catalogs and art supplies, and creatively cultivate our dream garden with botanical-themed art projects. No art experience necessary, just a willingness to be curious, dream big, and enjoy the process. 

Wausau artist Nancy Laliberte is an avid gardener who enjoys combining her love of plants and painting into her daily life. Her love of art is evident in both her work, and her classes. Find her online at nancylaliberte.com​


3. American Christian Nationalism ​*Offered Hybrid

Ryan O'Leary (Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies)

Christian nationalism is a topic of much discussion in our politics these days. But what is Christian nationalism? How is Christian nationalism different than just being a Christian in America? And how did American Christian nationalism originate? We explore the roots of Christian nationalism in the colonial and revolutionary generations, how it has impacted American politics since then, and how it finds expression in our culture today.

Dr. O'Leary is a Wisconsin native who enjoys exploring our unique landscape by trail and kayak. His current research takes place at the intersection of religion, American culture, and political discourse. His publications include “The Irony of the Secular: Violent Communication at the Limits of Tolerance,” and “The Freedom Narrative and the War on Terror: Civil-Religious Idolatry for the 9/11 Generation.”​​

​​4. Russian Culture

Svetlana Dziak (Executive Assistant to the Provost & Vice Chancellor​)

Svetlana will share insights about being a native of Russia living in the U.S. She will provide valuable perspectives and bridge cultural gaps covering topics like geography, history, culture and traditions, literature, language, cuisine and people in Russia.​

I came to Wisconsin from Russia a year ago and I still have strong connection with Russia. I teach English language to Russian students who want to study in the USA. ​

Afternoon Classes | 1-2:30 p.m. (choose one)


​5. Abraham Lincoln: Lessons from His Life and Leadership for the 21st Century *Offered Hybrid

Dr. Brett Barker (Professor of History, UWSP)

In this class, Prof. Barker will look at key elements of Abraham Lincoln's life, personality, and leadership style. Drawing on his writings and other materials, we will analyze what made him a great political leader and American. The course will also consider ways in which these traits would serve our country well in the current divisive political climate.

Dr. Brett Barker is Chair of the Department of History and International Studies at UW-Stevens Point. He lives in Wausau and began teaching at the Wausau campus in 2002. His major research interest is the northern home front during the Civil War. This will be the 11th time presenting at Good Ideas.



​6. Music for the New Year

​​Jacob Roseman (Artist/Instructor of Flute at the Wausau Conservatory of Music)

Through a plethora of wonderful classical holiday music exists, one should not overlook the great body of classical works for the New Year. Join us to explore these great gems that are an extension ​of the holiday season in more ways than one!

Jacob Roseman is Artist/Instructor of Flute/Music Appreciation at the Wausau Conservatory of Music. He has taught at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, and Morehead State University. He holds degrees from the University of Arts, the Eastman School of Music, Florida State University, and Mozarteum (Salzburg, Austria)



7. Card Camaraderie

Becky Wirkus (UWSP Youth Program Manager)

​Want to socialize with others over cards, but don't know the games being played? Be ready to learn the basics to sheepshead, cribbage, and hand and foot, so you can master the art of card camaraderie. All experience levels are welcome! If time permits, we can delve into other games as well that you can play with all age levels.

With decades of K-12 classroom experience, teaching a plethora of courses, with diverse content matter, Becky truly believes in lifelong learning. Becky feels that helping others learn, empowers them on multiple levels and enjoys using hands-on learning to maximize retention.



8. DISC Dynamics: Personality Styles for Lifelong Learning *Offered Hybrid

Todd Kuckkahn (CEO of www.toddkuckkahn.com)

What if you could tap into your greatest motivations and dramatically improve your relationships? Your individual personality affects every aspect of your life. That's why one of the best things you can do to grow yourself and others is to understand your personality and what naturally drives you. When you recognize your strengths and weaknesses, you are able to give your best as you interact with the people around you.

Todd Kuckkahn is on a mission to revolutionize company culture and leadership. Throughout his career, Todd has done countless keynotes and workshops at local, state, national and international conferences.

Todd is passionate about sharing his experience and knowledge in personality styles, workplace culture, leadership, communication, teambuilding, and generations. He is a DISC certified consultant for the Maxwell Leadership Team.​​

Good Ideas: Afternoon General Sessions I 2:45-3:45 p.m.

Tuesday, January 7 *offered hybrid

Artificial Intelligence for the Common Person​​​​ with Noah LaMaide (Professional Development Outreach Specialist, UWSP Continuing Education)

You’ve probably heard a lot about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the news. It’s a technology that’s rapidly transforming industries, influencing job markets, and shaping the future of everything from healthcare to entertainment. But perhaps you’re thinking, “How does this affect me?” or “AI has no place in my day-to-day life.” What if it could?​

Noah LaMaide is an Outreach Specialist at UW-Stevens Point Continuing Education & Outreach. A passionate advocate for AI technology, Noah frequently employs tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT in his professional work, promoting their benefits to colleagues. He played a pivotal role in organizing the AI Innovations at Work conference held at UW-Stevens Point in February 2024. ​​


Wednesday, January 8 *offered hybrid

Geo-Archeology: Using Radar to Locate Unmarked Graves in Wisconsin and Abroad​ with ​​Tristan Wirkus (Undergraduate Student Researcher)

In this class, the instructor will briefly discuss his journey at UW-Eau Claire before diving into the various research projects he has partaken in, including a local project in Dunn County Wisconsin and an international project in Latvia and Lithuania. ​

Tristan is a Geospatial Analysis and Technology Major, attending his 4th year at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. He has been engaged in high-impact research since he was a Freshman, working closely with Dr. Harry Jol where he utilizes ground penetrating radar (GPR) in attempts to located unmarked graves and mass burials​



Thursday, January 9 *offered hybrid

Reception 

​​​

​​ ​

Lunch for 2025


Lunch will be provided by Chicago Styl​e'z and will be an additional fee of $48 (covers all 3 days of the conference).

Menu:​

  • Day 1 - Chicken Alfredo, bread sticks and salad
  • Day 2 - Turkey/Corned beef subs, chips
  • Day 3 - Baked chicken, mashed potatoes, corn and dinner rolls

For gluten free or vegetarian diets, there will be gluten free noodles and bread, veggie subs and fresh salad. Please make this selection upon registration. 

UWSP Continuing Education works hard to communicate all special meal requests and allergies to the conference venue. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we cannot guarantee all special dietary needs can be met. If you have dietary needs (i.e., kosher, low salt, low carb, keto, etc.), you may wish to make alternative meal arrangements. Conference fees cannot be adjusted due to special dietary needs. 

Coffee and pastries will be available in the mornings to all in-person registrants.

​Zoom Conferencing


Registrants are responsible for ensuring they have the minimum computer standards for participating in the virtual Continuing Education and Outreach program via Zoom.

Sign up for a free Zoom account by clicking here. Zoom works best with Chrome or Firefox.

UW-Stevens Point is not responsible for registrant technological issues, including but not limited to, inadequate bandwidth and/or registrant equipment malfunction. 

Parking Information

Attendees can park in Lot G.

Do not park in Lot B. That is the Faculty Lot, and you may be ticketed if you park there.

​Contact Information


For additional information or assistance with registration, please email Customer Service at uwspceweb@uwsp.edu or call 715-346-3838.

​Cancellation Policy


Refunds will be granted if the Continuing Education and Outreach office is contacted at least seven (7) days before the start of a class. No refunds will be given with less than seven (7) days notice. Program that involve pre-ordering of materials and/or travel will not qualify for a refund unless your space can be filled from a waiting list. We reserve the right to cancel a course due to low enrollment, severe weather, or instructor illness. ​​BE SURE to provide your email address and phone number when registering so we can contact you if a class is cancelled for any reason. Email Continuing Education Customer Service at  uwspceweb@uwsp.edu to cancel your registration.

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Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two week in advance. Please contact Continuing Education Customer Service at 715-346-3838 or uwspceweb@uwsp.edu.