ACC announces the keynote speakers for the 2024 General Assembly: Stephanie Land and Dr. Sara Goldrick-Rab. This year’s event takes place Friday, November 8, at the Travis County Expo Center.
The 2024 General Assembly theme is Loving Students to Success. Both speakers embody the core values of meeting basic student needs and fostering an environment that supports every student’s journey to success.
About the Keynote Speakers
Stephanie Land is an accomplished author and activist whose powerful narratives shed light on the complexities of poverty and resilience. Her acclaimed memoir, “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” not only reached No. 2 on the New York Times bestseller list but also resonated with readers worldwide, selling over half a million copies.
In her recent work, “Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education,” Land continues this crucial conversation, detailing her experiences as both a mother and a student grappling with socioeconomic barriers. This dual perspective not only sheds light on her challenges but also reflects the broader struggles many students face today. Her work serves as a poignant reminder that love, empathy, and support can significantly impact a student’s ability to succeed against daunting odds.
Dr. Sara Goldrick-Rab, a prominent scholar-activist, has dedicated her career to transforming how higher education institutions address the needs of college students. Her groundbreaking book, “Paying the Price: College Costs, Financial Aid, and the Betrayal of the American Dream,” reveals systemic failures that hinder access to education for low-income individuals. Dr. Goldrick-Rab’s research has been pivotal in shaping policies that recognize the importance of meeting students’ basic needs, including food, housing, and healthcare.
As the founder of the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, and Believe in Students, Dr. Goldrick-Rab has driven the creation of programs that provide emergency aid to students in need. Her innovative approaches remind us that educational institutions must prioritize compassion and understanding in their operations.
Together, Stephanie and Sara will inspire our community to rethink how we support our students, and we look forward to their insightful perspectives at General Assembly.
About General Assembly 2024
Every fall, Austin Community College hosts General Assembly, a vibrant event that brings together employees to connect, share insights, and discuss the college’s initiatives and future goals.
General Assembly 2024: Loving Students to Success
Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724
All employees, except adjunct faculty, scheduled to work during the time of the event are required to attend. The event is optional for adjunct faculty. Part-time and hourly employees who are scheduled to work for only some of the hours of the event should work with their supervisors to determine their best option.
Visit this form to register. An RSVP is required for those attending to help plan for transportation needs, food, and other details; however, meal selection is not guaranteed after the registration deadline of Wednesday, October 23.