Dr. Mary Hess, author of Engaging Technology in Theological Education and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at Luther Seminary, will be a keynote speaker for the 40th Anniversary SACEM Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio, February 15-17, 2008. (See also Interview with Dr. Mary Hess )

The 2008 Annual Gathering of SACEM members and others interested in lifelong learning for ministry will be held at the Blackwell Hotel and Conference Center on the campus of Ohio State University in Columbus.

The 2008 conference is focused on Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning in the Digital Age. To help us address issues related to the opportunities and challenges of the digital age, Dr. Mary Hess will present two keynote sessions and various others will present workshops.

The 2008 conference will also feature a report on Sustaining Pastoral Excellence, a reception and banquet at Trinity Lutheran Seminary, a night out on the town in Columbus, and opportunities to dialogue around the future of SACEM as we move into the digital age.

The conference will open with lunch at noon on February 15, with the opening presentation at 1:30 pm (ET). The conference will conclude mid-morning on Sunday, February 17, following the SACEM business meeting.

The New Directors Workshop for those who are new to SACEM and to directing a lifelong learning for ministry program will be held at the Blackwell Hotel and Cenference Center starting mid-day on February 14 and concluding prior to the opening lunch session for the conference on the 15th.

Registration for the conference is $290 per person for double occupancy and $400 per person for single occupancy. The registration fee includes the conference, two nights hotel accomodations, and conference meals including the Friday evening reception and banquet. The registration does not include a Saturday evening meal. There are a limited number of rooms in the Blackwell Hotel and Conference Center and later registrations may be housed at the nearby Holiday Inn on Lane Avenue.

The Blackwell Hotel and Conference Center, conveniently located on the Fisher College of Business campus of The Ohio State University, identifies itself as an upscale hotel like none other; featuring the very best in guest service and comfort along with the highest levels of technology and resources. It is also close to the city’s arts, entertainment, sports and business centers.

DOWNLOAD CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM