Our Keynote Speakers
Scott Warren
Humanitarian Activist
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Scott Warren is a geographer, volunteer, and activist with No More Deaths, No Más Muertes. Warren's work centers on the humanitarian crisis in the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. His public speaking events often draw on his experience providing life-saving aid to migrants and facing criminal charges for his humanitarian work. His work illuminates the critical need for humanitarian aid and compassion in the face of militarization and political resistance.
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Jennifer Carroll Foy
Virginia State Senator
Jennifer Carroll Foy is a dedicated public servant. A graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, she was one of the school's first women graduates, later beginning her legal career as a magistrate judge and becoming the first public defender ever elected to the General Assembly. While serving as a Delegate, she successfully led the effort to make Virginia the 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and passed significant legislation on reproductive rights, wage theft, and environmental cleanup. Now serving in the State Senate, she continues to prioritize economic development, expanding labor rights, and addressing systemic inequities in education and criminal justice.
Day 1 - Happy Hour
Don’t head back to the hotel right away—we are concluding Day One with a Happy Hour at Tradition Brewing Company. To start the evening, your first beverage is on us! Join us from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM to relax and connect with your peers. This is an excellent opportunity to network with fellow attendees, meet local community leaders, and forge new partnerships with nonprofit innovators.
Day 2 - Closing Reception & Art Exhibition
On Wednesday, we will conclude the conference with a Closing Reception in the David Student Union Ballroom. This event will feature social justice art and poster presentations highlighting local research and advocacy. We invite you to join us for hors d’oeuvres and engaging conversation. If you would like to present information regarding your research or organization, please submit your proposal here.
Beyond the official schedule, there are several opportunities for enriching experiences.
Enhance your conference experience with an intimate jazz concert, a compelling dramatic play, or a peaceful stroll through an art gallery.
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Christopher Newport University's Jazz Ensemble presents Jazz 4 Justice "Generations" in partnership with the Newport News Bar Association.
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The CNU Department of Performing Arts presents “The Laramie Project”, by Moisés Kaufman and the Members of Tectonic Theater Project. Directed by Gregg Lloyd.
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The Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center is free to visit and presents changing exhibitions in four gallery spaces.
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Panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display in the Studio Theatre Lobby (Ferguson Center) April 10 - 19, 10 am to 5pm.
Staying in town longer? Join us for a special film screening and panel discussion of Common Threads on April 16 at 5:30 pm in the Torggler Lecture Hall.