Pre-Conference Keynote Address
- Amy Popillion (Iowa State University)
Abstract
Dr. Amy Popillion will share her personal experiences as she defied expectations and overcame adversity to achieve unexpected success and fulfillment in her life. From a troubled upbringing marked by adverse childhood experiences, Amy's trajectory was uncertain until pivotal teachers and mentors saw her potential and offered support.
Despite facing challenges, Amy pursued higher education with determination, eventually finding love and stability. Through her partner and experiences as a foster and adoptive parent, Amy learned valuable lessons about inclusion, representation, and the power of compassionate interactions.
The keynote emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing biases, both internalized and societal, and actively striving for personal growth and positive change. Amy's story serves as a testament to the transformative impact of support systems, self-reflection, and a commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding in both academic and broader societal contexts.