Harper College

National Learning Communities Conference 2024

Community of Voices

The history and growth of Chicago is reflected in the communities and neighborhoods that make up the city. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a thriving global city, Chicago welcomes people of all nationalities and backgrounds, fostering a rich 'Community of Voices'. Learning communities play a similar role in education, offering students the opportunity to build valuable communities and expand their understanding of diverse perspectives.

Embrace the spirit of inclusivity and collaboration at this year's National Learning Communities Conference, themed 'Community of Voices'. Join us as we come together to share, celebrate, and amplify our diverse experiences. Let your voice be heard and join other learning community colleagues from across various institutions in building a stronger, more connected community. 

Conference Registration

Registration for NLCC 2024 has begun. The registration fees are listed below.

Registration Options Fees Dates Available
Regular Registration $525/person Through September 30, 2024
Late Registration $625/person After September 30, 2024

Pre-conference sessions on Wednesday, November 6th will begin at 3 pm, see more information on the Featured Speakers tab. Conference sessions on Thursday, November 7th and Friday, November 8th will run from 8 am -5 pm. Additional schedule details will be posted at a later date.

*Registration fee includes free membership to the National Learning Communities Association (NLCA).

No Refunds (Please note that you can transfer your registration to another person that is in your institution.)

Plan Your Trip

The National Learning Communities Conference (NLCC) 2024 will be held at Loews Hotel – Chicago O’Hare with Pre-conference sessions on Wednesday, November 6th and full day sessions on Thursday, November 7th and Friday, November 8th.

Hotel

Loews Chicago O'hare Main Entance and Drive Up

Harper College is proud to partner with Loews Hotels to provide accommodation for conference attendees at a discounted rate. 

Group Rates Available: November 6, 2024 through November 8, 2024
Guest Room Rates: starting from $209 plus tax
Group Block Closes: October 14, 2024

To reserve a room and get additional information regarding event specific accommodations - Click Here

If you would prefer to speak to a Loews Travel Planner, please call 1.877.868.9134 and reference Group Code: HARN06.

Discounted group rates will be honored for attendees three days before the conference and three days after based on availability. You may reserve rooms for Wednesday (11/6) and Thursday (11/7) either online or on the phone at the discounted conference rate. Separately you can reserve shoulder dates at the normal rate, then request an adjustment to the discounted rate by sending an email to nlcc@harpercollege.edu with your registration information.

Hotel amenities include:

  • Complimentary shuttle to and from O'Hare airport every 15 minutes  
  • 50% discount on self-parking rates during the conference  
  • Onsite Dining  
  • Complimentary WIFI  
  • 24-hour Fitness Center  

Venue Information:
Address: 5300 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018
Phone: (847) 544-5300

Air Travel

International flags in a terminal at O'hare Airport
Photo by Engin Yapici on Unsplash

There are two airports in Chicago:

O'hare Airport (ORD)

Midway Airport (MDW)

Explore Rosemont

From fashion-forward finds to culinary delights, Rosemont offers an unforgettable experience beyond the conference room. We encourage you to see some of what Rosemont has to offer:

Call for Proposals

The planning committee for NLCC 2024 invites submissions from educators, researchers, administrators, and practitioners actively involved in the development, execution, evaluation, and maintenance of high-quality learning communities. The deadline for proposals is May 1, 2024.

Time Event
2-6 pm Conference Check-In
3-4:15 pm Pre-Conference Session A
4:30-5:45 pm Pre-Conference Session B
Time Event
7:30-8:30 am Breakfast/Conference Check-In
8:30-8:50 am Welcome
9-9:50 am Break-Out Sessions
10-10:50 am Break-Out Sessions
11-11:50 am Break-Out Sessions
12-1:30 pm Lunch/Keynote
1:45-2:35 pm Break-Out Sessions
2:45-3:35 pm Break-Out Sessions
3:45-4:35 pm Break-Out Sessions
5-6 pm Reception

Pre-Conference Sessions

The following Pre-Conference Sessions will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024:

Keynote Speakers

headshot of Shermann “Dilla” Thomas

Shermann "Dilla" Thomas

Shermann “Dilla” Thomas is passionate and well-versed in Chicago’s history, architecture, and culture. He brings the city to life through captivating storytelling and insider knowledge. The Chicago Emmy winning, self-taught historian was awarded the City of Chicago's Tourism Ambassador of the Year by Choose Chicago. Public Narrative has named Dilla the 2022 Studs Terkel Uplifting Voice recipient, and The Chicago Public Library has awarded Dilla the 21st Century Award for his recent achievements in promoting Chicago to the world. Dilla has been independently studying the history of Chicago for over 20 years, and his candid and truthful reflection of that history can be felt in his videos and presentations. Dilla embodies the essence of the city and reverberates his message everywhere that “Everything Dope about America Comes from Chicago”.

Headshot of Todd D. Zakrajsek

Todd D. Zakrajsek

Todd D. Zakrajsek PhD, is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Medicine at UNC at Chapel Hill, where he develops resources for faculty on teaching/learning, leadership, and publishing. Prior to joining the SOM he was a tenured associate professor of psychology and built faculty development efforts at three universities. Todd has served on many educationally related boards and work groups during his four decades of teaching and faculty development. Todd’s recent books include Classroom Assessment Techniques 3rd ed., Teaching at Its Best, 5th ed.; The New Science of Learning, 3rd ed.; Teaching for Learning, 2nd ed.; Advancing Online; and Dynamic Lecturing. Todd has given keynote addresses, campus workshops, and conference presentations in 49 states, 12 countries, and 4 continents.

Last Updated: 9/30/24