Academics

2017 Hendrick Conference to explore ways to promote adult learner success

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — An educational psychology expert will explore how to apply several universal principles for student success to adult learners during the keynote of the upcoming 2017 Hendrick Best Practices for Adult Learners Conference on May 9.

Joe Cuseo, professor emeritus from Marymount California University, will draw on his experiences, which include 25 years as the director of the university’s first-year seminar. Cuseo currently serves as an education adviser and consultant for the nonprofit organization Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID.

The conference will be held at the Nittany Lion Inn at the University Park Campus and is open to Penn State employees from all campuses. Registration is open through April 21.

In Cuseo’s keynote, he will discuss applying seven research-based principles of student success: personal validation, self-efficacy, growth mindset and grit, finding meaning and purpose, engagement, reflection, social integration and self-awareness. Attendees will hear how to identify and apply them to adult learners.

Cuseo’s address will round out the one-day conference, which will also offer sessions on partnerships between academic affairs and student affairs; using prior learning assessment in advising; best practices in communicating with adult learners; serving unique student veteran populations and more.

Penn State’s Commission for Adult Learners sponsors the annual conference, which is named in honor of the late Shirley Hendrick, associate dean for continuing education in the Penn State Smeal College of Business and the inaugural chair of the commission. The group comprises administrators, faculty and staff from across Penn State who are dedicated to reviewing policies and practices that will improve the adult learner experience at the University.

Visit the Hendrick Conference website for the full program agenda or to register.

To join the email list or volunteer to assist with the conference, contact Judy Wills at jcw25@psu.edu or 814-863-1316.

Joe Cuseo Credit: Penn StateCreative Commons

Last Updated March 22, 2017