We are thrilled to announce that Leonard Geddes will be delivering the keynote address at our second annual LCLCA symposium. Leonard is a nationally recognized expert in using metacognition to achieve greater academic success. As the founder of The LearnWell Projects, he has dedicated his career to uncovering the deeper factors that shape student learning and performance. His groundbreaking work empowers educators with practical, research-based strategies that help students think more effectively, learn more deeply, and achieve greater academic success. Leonard is a leading voice in academic success and metacognitive learning. Through his work with colleges and universities, he has helped implement metacognitive-based Quality Enhancement Plans (QEPs) that boost academic performance, retention, and close equity gaps. His insights are invaluable for those dedicated to enhancing post-secondary learning.

Leonard’s book, How to Successfully Transition Students into College: From Traps to Triumph, published by Routledge Press, is a culmination of years of experience working directly with students throughout North America, including at LCLCA institutions. His work has helped educators and institutions operate more effectively to achieve their core goals, providing actionable strategies to help students overcome obstacles, take greater ownership of their learning, and persist to graduation.
 

Keynote address

Leading Institutional Transformation: Learning Centers Must Lead from Behind

Despite the public scrutiny and disruptive innovations like generative AI that seem to threaten higher education, I believe the successful path will lead us back to our foundational mission: academic transformation. This keynote explores the pivotal role learning centers play in shaping the future of higher education. By transforming how students approach academic work, learning centers can drive institutional success and prosperity. Participants will leave inspired and equipped with the perspectives, tools, and stories needed to effectively lead from behind, fostering transformation at every level of their institution.