The University of Central Missouri Faculty Senate Teaching and Research Conference is supported by the Faculty Senate and the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. The theme for this year’s conference on Monday, Sept. 18 is “Strengthening Our Practice; Empowering Our Students.” This one-day event includes 20 breakout sessions, conducted by university faculty members; a discussion event with topic-based tables; and free box lunch and coffee stations all day. Flower Darby, an author and seasoned online and face-to-face educator with more than 25 years of experience in higher education, will present the keynote address.