HETMA Virtual Conference 2025: Alphabet Soup – Day 2 Recap
Day 2 of the HETMA Virtual Conference 2025 was packed with insightful discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and, of course, our record-breaking happy hour! The day featured a deep dive into funding strategies, classroom technology evaluation, institutional disparities, and innovative faculty training solutions. Here’s a full recap of all the highlights from another fantastic day of collaboration and learning.
Morning Coffee: Stirring the Pot on Funding
The day kicked off with a dynamic Morning Coffee session, where attendees gathered to discuss one of the most pressing topics in higher education technology: funding. This casual yet informative discussion covered creative approaches to securing financial support for AV/IT initiatives, the importance of advocating for technology in academic budgeting, and strategies for making the most of available resources. The exchange of ideas set the perfect tone for a day of deep conversations and shared problem-solving.
Keynote Session: Flexing the Future of Learning Spaces
The morning keynote featured an engaging discussion with Rebecca Frazee and Lisa Stephens, who provided valuable insights into Flexspace, a framework designed to support flexible and technology-enhanced learning environments.
A major highlight of the keynote was the exciting announcement that Lisle Waldron will be taking the helm as the new Flexspace Chair. This leadership transition marks a new chapter for Flexspace, promising continued innovation in designing learning environments that adapt to the evolving needs of students and faculty.
Additionally, Atkins Fleming spoke about the Learning Space Rating System (LSRS) and the benefits of holistically scoring rooms. By taking a data-driven approach to evaluating classroom technology, institutions can make informed decisions that enhance teaching and learning experiences.
Panel Discussion: AV/IT Resources in PWI and HBCUs
The first panel discussion of the day, “AV/IT Resources in PWI and HBCUs: How It Can Impact the Student Experience,” was a thought-provoking conversation about the differences and similarities in technology resource allocation at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Moderated by Kameesha Jones, the panel included John Douglas, Jashua Joseph, and James King, who shared their experiences and perspectives on how AV/IT infrastructure impacts student learning across different institutional settings. While disparities exist, a key takeaway was the shared challenges that all institutions face and how standardized technology practices and communities like HETMA can bridge resource gaps. The discussion underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing to create equitable learning environments for all students.
AV Training for Faculty: Will Micro-Credentialing Assist?
The next session, moderated by Chris Kelly, featured Adaline Tatum and Kevin Hartman as panelists, with Darryl Krall speaking on behalf of Panasonic. Their presentation, “AV Training for Faculty: Will Micro-Credentialing Assist in End-User Training?”, explored innovative ways to improve faculty engagement with classroom technology.
The panelists emphasized the importance of structured training sessions and discussed how micro-credentialing could incentivize participation. One creative approach highlighted was offering student support for the first few classes for faculty members who complete training programs. Additionally, the conversation touched on the critical role of marketing faculty training, ensuring that these sessions are well-promoted and that participation is encouraged through tangible benefits.
One Button to Rule Them All: Simplifying Interfaces for Faculty
The final presentation of the day, titled “One Button to Rule Them All, Really Just One?”, featured Ann Kelly, Aaron Baker and Scott Ramsayer from Shure diving into the simplification of AV interfaces for faculty members.
As AV professionals know, complex systems can lead to frustration, downtime, and underutilization of available technology. The discussion focused on designing intuitive, easy-to-use controls that enhance faculty confidence in using classroom tech. By prioritizing user-friendly interfaces, institutions can reduce support calls and foster a more seamless teaching experience and by creating simpler to install and configure products manufacturers can further support their customers by simplifying all aspects of the products lifecycle.
The Marathon Happy Hour: Breaking Records Again!
Of course, no HETMA event would be complete without our legendary Happy Hour, and this year we shattered our own record yet again! The networking event ran for a staggering 8 hours and 16 minutes, in honor of HETMA member Ace Hazziez’s birthday of August 16th, proving once more that the HETMA community values connection, collaboration, and a good time. Attendees shared insights, reflected on the day’s sessions, and built lasting professional relationships in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Day 2 of the HETMA Virtual Conference 2025 showcased the power of community-driven learning and collaboration. From funding discussions to faculty training innovations and equitable AV/IT resource strategies, the sessions provided attendees with actionable insights to take back to their institutions.
With one more day of incredible sessions ahead, we’re excited to see what’s next in this year’s Alphabet Soup journey. See you tomorrow for Day 3!
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