Speaker:  Dr. Sharon Lauricella

Topic: What is generative AI and why do I need to know about it?

This interactive session will introduce you to generative artificial intelligence (AI) and demonstrate simple, fun ways to use it in your everyday life.  We’ll discuss both the benefits and challenges of using generative AI.  You’ll leave with ideas and tools that you can implement right away after this meeting.

Sharon Lauricella is the inaugural Teaching Scholar in Residence at Ontario Tech University in Oshawa, Ontario. She holds the position of Full Professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities and is a scholar of Communication and the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Sharon has a doctoral degree from the University of Cambridge (UK), a BA from Wheaton College (Massachusetts), and a Certificate in Higher Education Teaching from the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning at Harvard University. Her research focuses on teaching with technology, the mental health of undergraduate students, and the value of fun and play in higher education.

Speaker:  Melody Crowe

Topic: First Nation’s resilience, giving personal and historical insight as she delves into the significance of honouring her Ancestors, while also highlighting Indigenous Peoples ways of knowing in today’s world.

Melody Crowe is a respected Elder of the Mississaugas of Alderville First Nation, a gifted educator, and a powerful bridge between Indigenous and

non-Indigenous communities.

Melody has devoted her life to preserving and sharing the richness of Ojibwe

language, culture, and teachings. As First Nation Education Liaison with

the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board since 2001, Melody has

played a vital role in transforming education—bringing Indigenous

knowledge, truth, and lived experience into classrooms, and guiding both

students and educators toward deeper understanding and meaningful

reconciliation.

An Eagle Feather Carrier, Jingle Dress Dancer, and lifelong Knowledge

Keeper, Melody is recognized for her wisdom, compassion, and

unwavering commitment to raising awareness and imparting a deeper

understanding of First Nations Peoples, culture, and ways of knowing.

Through her teaching, writing, and cultural work, she has empowered

countless individuals to reconnect with Indigenous perspectives while

fostering respect, awareness, and unity across communities.

Guided by a deep love and reverence for her ancestors, Melody carries her

teachings with pride and purpose. She speaks to honour those who have

walked before us, those who walk beside us today, and to generations yet

to come - creating pathways of learning, healing, and connection for all.

Her contributions have been honoured with numerous awards, including a

Lifetime Achievement Award from the Anishinabek Nation (Union of Ontario

Indians) for her work in preserving Indigenous language and culture, the

Honouring Our People Award from the Ogemawahj Tribal Council, along

with other recognitions celebrating her lifelong dedication and impact.