College of Education (COE)
College of Education Hosts ASCEND Conference Focused on Character and Leadership
Thursday, 19 February 2026 - The ASCEND Conference at the University of Memphis brings educators and leaders together to explore character development, leadership and student success.
The University of Memphis College of Education (COE) hosted its ASCEND conference on Feb. 17, bringing together faculty, researchers and education leaders to explore how character, intellectual development and leadership can strengthen student learning and responsible citizenship.
The conference theme, “Educating for Character, Building Values in a Changing World,” guided discussions on preparing students to think critically, act responsibly and engage meaningfully in their communities.
“More than ever, learning well and being responsible democratic citizens requires the practice of intellectual virtues such as curiosity, intellectual humility and intellectual courage,” said Dr. Jason Baehr, professor of philosophy at Loyola Marymount University and an internationally recognized scholar in intellectual virtues, moral philosophy and educational theory. “With its attention to character, values and intellectual formation, the University of Memphis is well positioned to address this important need.”
The event reflected the College’s commitment to connecting research with practice and strengthening partnerships across Memphis and the Mid-South.
“Our partnerships with Memphis and Mid-South area schools and district leaders keep this work grounded in reality,” said Dr. Dustin Hornbeck, assistant professor in the Department of Leadership. “We are regularly in conversation with district partners about integrating practical, research-informed ideas into leadership preparation. Character development is one of the themes that consistently surfaces.”
Faculty also emphasized the importance of developing empathy and perspective in classrooms.
“I advocate for every student to have a voice in the classroom,” said Dr. Jeffrey M. Byford, professor of social studies education in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership. “When students actively engage in inquiry and decision-making, they gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and learn to think critically about the world around them.”
Mike Miller, dean of the University of Memphis College of Education, said the conference aligns with the College’s mission to prepare educators and leaders who make a meaningful impact.
“ASCEND reflects our commitment to advancing both academic excellence and community engagement,” Miller said. “By bringing together national thought leaders and our faculty, we are strengthening the connection between research, practice and purpose.”
