The Faculty Center for Learning Innovation (FCLI) and the Teaching & Learning Excellence Division’s Office of Faculty Development invite all Austin Community College (ACC) faculty to an evening of storytelling, connection, and celebration aboard the annual Riverboat Cruise.
This special faculty development event offers a unique opportunity to engage with colleagues from across the college while enjoying a meal, a scenic cruise through downtown Austin, and the spectacular flight of the city’s famous bats. Each year’s program features a themed session designed to inspire reflection and spark creativity.
“Words and Wheels: The Wonders of Storytelling” Keynote
This year’s Riverboat Cruise features an engaging keynote by Louisa Spaventa, Adjunct Professor of Composition and Literary Studies and 2024 Teaching Excellence Award recipient. Her session explores the ways storytelling can preserve our humanity—especially when traditional narratives fall short. From identity wheels and photo montages to dance and pie-making, Spaventa will highlight creative, inclusive ways to chronicle our experiences and celebrate the richness of our diverse lives.
About the Speaker
Spaventa has taught at ACC since 2003 and is known for using literature to build community and shape identity. Her work spans multiple programs, including Honors, Service-Learning, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Creative Writing. She co-develops integrated reading and writing courses, supports students as an Instructional Associate in the Learning Lab, and designs themed composition classes that center connection and creativity. A graduate of ACC’s Teaching and Learning Academy, Spaventa also brings her experience as a policy fellow and community volunteer, working with Equality Texas, Rainbow Connections ATX, Family Eldercare, and Austin Bat Cave’s Intergenerational Storytelling program.
2025 Riverboat Cruise Details
- Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
- Time: 5:30 – 9 p.m. (Boarding begins at 5:45 p.m.)
- Location: Capital Cruises Dock at the Hyatt Regency; 208 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704
- Ticket deadline: Friday, April 18, 2025, at 5 p.m.
- Ticket price: $25
- Faculty-only event: This event is exclusively for ACC faculty. Due to limited seating and the professional development focus, tickets are not available for guests or spouses.
Seating is limited. Early registration is encouraged.
For questions or additional information, please send an email to [email protected] or [email protected].