Freed Hardeman University to host Christian Education Conference, Association of Christian Education Preparation Programs (ACEPP)

Freed-Hardeman University will host the 32nd Annual Association of Christian Education Preparation Programs (ACEPP) conference beginning Thursday evening, Sept. 28, at 6 p.m. until noon Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. The theme of this year’s conference is “Focused on the Future: Reimagining Teacher Education.” 
The annual conference is held at a different church of Christ-affiliated university each year. In response to the many changes and challenges facing our schools today in a post-pandemic world, the ubiquitous, nationwide strain of teacher shortage is changing the dynamics of how education is generally delivered. The conference will focus on improving teaching and learning in current and future contexts, recruiting, retaining and supporting P-12 teacher candidates, leading and advocating for the profession, and attracting and mentoring teacher educators and administrators.
Teacher education programs from six of church of Christ affiliated universities, plan to be a part of the conference. There will be representation from Abilene Christian University, Harding University, Lipscomb University, Lubbock Christian University, Oklahoma Christian University and Rochester University. 
Thursday night’s schedule includes registration, dinner, guest speaker Dr. Ron Butterfield (a pioneer in the development of this great conference) and entertainment by Four Docs & a Jock hosted by the College of Education. Friday’s agenda will kick off with a welcome from FHU President David R. Shannon followed by conference sessions, a campus tour and dinner entertainment by The Clarks and FHU’s jazz ensemble at the Hardeman House. The conference will conclude around noon Saturday. 
The ACEPP Conference meets annually in the early fall on a rotating basis. Last year’s conference was hosted by Lubbock Christian University in Lubbock, Texas. To learn more about FHU’s College of Education, visit fhu.edu/education.
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees.