We are very excited about our 2010 annual international conference, “Many Faces, Many Voices: Learning and Development in a Changing World” to be located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This year’s theme recognizes the significant role that faculty, staff, and organizational developers play in the global community. As is our tradition, the conference will highlight practical solutions to current challenges.
The NCSPOD conference is always a mix of stimulating presentations and engaging activities which facilitate individual problem-solving and networking. A variety of session formats will be available within the conference’s broad themes of Inclusiveness/ Diversity, Leadership, Sustainability and Technology and with the following categories in mind: staff development, faculty and instructional development, and program and organizational development. Additionally, some sessions will be specifically tailored for new practitioners in professional development within higher education and related fields. Our keynote speaker, Angaangaq Angakkorsuaq is an Eskimo-Kalaallit Elder whose family belongs to the traditional healers of Greenland. Uncle, as he is frequently called, bridges the boundaries of cultures and faiths in people young and old. His work is acclaimed in promoting interracial and intercultural harmony and his presentation is sure to infuse a unique energy into the conference.
Vancouver is a popular destination and easy to access from anywhere in the world. One of the world's most spectacular cities, it is also the site of the 2010 Olympic and Para-Olympic Winter Games. This sea-level port city is known for its temperate climate as well as the surrounding snow-covered slopes with breathtaking views of the city twinkling below. Vancouver is one of the few places in the world where it's possible to ski in the morning and sail in the afternoon.A special Thursday afternoon and evening conference excursion will highlight the history and beauty of the city and surrounding mountains.
We recognized that conference attendance is a sacrifice not only financially but also in your time commitment. We are committed to planning a conference where these sacrifices result in a significant return – that is, you will gain immediate ideas and resources to put into use -- saving you time and money in the development of your professional development programs. If you can only attend one conference this year, we hope that it will be this one.
Vancouver is a popular destination and easy to access from anywhere in the world.You can fly into the Vancouver International Airport from pretty much anywhere. If you are traveling from the USA, you have the opportunity to cut costs by flying into Seattle and boarding an Amtrac train or bus to Vancouver, a 3-4 hour ride departing daily at a cost of about $35. An additional benefit is the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Canadian Rockies along the way.
For ways to save on travel, please see the tab on Ways to Save for our travel partner information.
After arriving at the Vancouver International Airport, you can take the Canada Line rapid rail service directly to the heart of Downtown Vancouver, a 26 minute trip that will cost you $3.75. Please note, Passports are required when flying across borders.
The North American Council for Staff, Program and Organizational Development is an affiliate council of the American Association of Community.
