Explore Chicago

The POD Network Annual Conference is the perfect opportunity to explore a vibrant and diverse city! As you engage with your colleagues, make the most of your trip by experiencing the rich cultural tapestry, iconic architecture, and diverse culinary scene that the Windy City offers. Don’t miss the chance to take in the stunning skyline views along the Chicago River, world-renowned museums and theaters, and bustling neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and character.

Land Acknowledgment

As we come together for this conference, celebrating the role of relationships at the core of educational development, we pause to acknowledge the rich history and enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on whose ancestral lands we are gathered. This land, known today as Chicago, is the traditional homelands of the Council of the Three Fires: the Potawatomi, Odawa, and Ojibwe Nations, as well as the Ho-Chunk, Meskwaki, Sauk, and Miami Nations.

We recognize and honor the deep-rooted connection these Nations have to this land, a connection that has been sustained through countless generations. The region we now call Chicago remains home to diverse Native people whose cultures, traditions, and contributions continue to enrich the community.

As educators and professionals dedicated to shaping the future through higher education, we have a unique responsibility to reflect on the history of the Native peoples and the stewardship of ancestral lands to form more dynamic relationships in the teaching and learning environment. Through reflection, we can be called to action: to integrate Indigenous knowledge and diverse perspectives into our curricula, to support Native students and colleagues, and to advocate for the rights and recognition of Indigenous communities, and in doing so, open teaching and learning to a greater diversity of thought and cultivate a more supportive environment for our students.

This conference will emphasize the importance of relationships and relationality in our work. Relationality reminds us that our connections to the land, to each other, and to our shared history shape our present and future. We must commit to fostering these connections, recognizing that our actions today have ripple effects and impact the generations to come.

Let this acknowledgment be more than a thought. Let it inspire us to build meaningful relationships with one another, to listen and learn, and to contribute to a future where education serves as a bridge to understanding, respect, and equity.

Excursions

Choose Chicago is your go-to resource for discovering the best of the city, offering insider tips on local attractions, dining hotspots, and must-see events. Here are some notable attractions in Chicago we thought you might enjoy, including their ticket prices and a list of free activities and landmarks:

Free Museums, Conservatories, and Activities

Landmarks

Additional Cost Attractions

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about the 2024 POD Network Annual Conference.