The LDL Connects is an annual event organized by the Learning Design and Leadership (LDL) team that offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with peers, share ideas, and explore new perspectives in our community. Vania Castro and Stuart Mattingly coordinated the event with amazing support from EPOL staff and leadership.

This year, the event, held from September 26-28, 2024, was an outstanding success, bringing together a diverse and dynamic group of students from around the world. Participants from Japan, India, Columbia, California, and Arizona, among other locations, gathered for three-days of enriching activities, discussions, and shared experiences.

This is what student said about the LDL Connects 2024: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAtj86by-vF/

“Three words about the LDL gathering? Connected, vibrant and collaborative with a sense of community.”

“It was so nice to have people come down to campus because it really made the class feel more real. The community we built… it was like nothing other”

“Network, support, and reaffirming.”

“The best experience was to have the opportunity to work with my supervisor and to share my ideas with the other peers.”

The event kicked off with a warm welcome that included the "Desserts with Dean Mouza" session at the O'Leary Center and "Donuts with Dr. Pak" on the following day, followed by an engaging Doctoral Student Mixer and Potluck on the lawn of the library. There were individual and group meetings with professors. One of the standout sessions was the Dissertation Support Group, where students had the opportunity to share progress and receive valuable feedback. A campus walking tour, led by Dr. Bill Cope, added a historical and educational layer to the event. The day concluded with an early dinner hosted by Dr. Bill Cope and Dr. Mary Kalantzis at their home, fostering further community bonding.They had such a great time that many students continued the evening with “LDL LOL After Hours.”

Saturday provided more structured yet flexible activities, including a focus group discussion led by the LDL team and a session on the implications of AI for dissertations, led by Dr. Liam Magee and Dr. Xinran Zhu. The event wrapped up with a closing group meeting, leaving participants inspired and eager for future gatherings.

LDL Connects 2024 not only provided an exceptional opportunity for professional growth but also strengthened the bonds within the LDL community, welcoming participants from all concentrations. This year’s event truly reflected the collaborative and innovative spirit of the program.

We hope to see everyone in the LDL Connects next year!