By Stephanie Afful

We’ve just returned from a fabulous Annual Conference on Teaching in Minneapolis two weeks ago, and I’m still riding the wave of inspiration. With over 300 attendees—nearly a third of them first-timers—it was our largest gathering yet! From karaoke and a surprise Ted Lasso sighting to meaningful, vulnerable conversations with colleagues and a charge for the next round of educational leaders, the conference was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. I left with my cup refilled.

One comment from a session continues to resonate with me: We teach humans, not courses. That sentiment echoed throughout the conference, where I felt both the physiological and psychological comfort of being surrounded by supportive colleagues—people who understand the current challenges we face in higher education, who lead with empathy, and who remain deeply committed to our shared mission.

I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as STP President this year and for the amazing members I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. If you don’t already know, our Executive Director, Sue Frantz, is the steady hand keeping this mission afloat. Our Executive Committee members are equally generous, consistently giving their time and energy to support our organization.

I’m excited (for more than one reason!) to pass the torch to your next STP President, Drew Christopher. And I want to give the loudest possible shoutout to our ACT Director, Garth Neufeld. His inaugural year was an absolute banger, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. He’s backed by a stellar team: Assistant Director Blake Nielson and committee members Chelsea Robertson and Jennifer Grewe, who helped make this conference a reality.

This month, I hope you’ll take time to invest in the humans you teach and the colleagues you work alongside—both at your home institution and within STP. I’m still savoring the sense of safety and connection I felt at the conference. It’s easy to lose sight of that as we are deep into midterm grades, advising, and spring planning. So pause, pass on some gratitude, and reconnect with your “why” for teaching.

Thank you for being an STP member!