UST Blackboard Day - Powered by Anthology

Registration

Why Attend?

Be among the first to experience what’s coming to Blackboard Ultra in 2026. Dive into Anthology’s groundbreaking research on artificial intelligence in education and discover how it’s shaping the classroom beyond the hype. Your voice matters—share your feedback directly with Anthology experts and help influence the future roadmap. Plus, enjoy a complimentary lunch while connecting with colleagues who are navigating the same digital learning journey.

Agenda

Time	Topic
9:30 am - 10:00 am	Registration - Sign In
10:00 am - 10:15 am	Welcome to UST Blackboard Day
10:15 am - 11:00 am	Celt Circle Conversations - Discussions on AI Manuel Fernandez, Senior Instructional Designer, TeachOnline, University of St. Thomas Dr. Beena George, Professor of Management & Interim Dean, Cameron School of Business, University of St. Thomas Description: In this session Manuel Fernandez and Dr. Beena George will present how the University of St. Thomas is engaging with AI developments since 2023 by high quality implementation of AI in courses, the internal operations of the TeachOnline Department, faculty development opportunities through Faculty Circles and even extra-curricular summer camps like our AI and Entrepreneurship Summer Camp for high school students.
11:00 am - 11:10 am	Break
11:10 am - 12:15 pm	Blackboard Feature Roadmap Leslie Kent, Customer Success Strategist, Anthology Description: This session will spotlight what’s ahead for Blackboard, including exciting updates, innovations, and what they mean for your teams and learners. Whether you're deeply involved in Blackboard or just curious about what’s coming, this is a great opportunity to stay informed and inspired.
12:15 pm - 12:45 pm	Lunch - Provided by Anthology
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm	Reframing Bloom's for the Age of AI Dr. Justin Louder, AVP of Academic Innovation, Anthology Description: This session delves into reframing Bloom's Taxonomy for the AI era. We will explore its historical roots, connect traditional cognitive hierarchies with AI-enhanced practices, and highlight recent research on AI's role in enhancing critical thinking and application. Using data from Anthology’s 2025 Thrive Faculty Survey of 2,500 instructors, we’ll discuss aligning AI with Bloom’s cognitive levels to address workload, engagement, and ethical concerns. Practical strategies and faculty examples will show how AI can support teaching, allowing instructors to focus on higher-order learning and impactful student engagement.
1:45 pm - 2:15 pm	Discussion: AI in the Classroom Manuel Fernandez, Senior Instructional Designer, TeachOnline, University of St. Thomas Dr. Justin Louder, AVP of Academic Innovation, Anthology Jacob Spradlin, Executive Director, Online Instructional Support, SHSU Online Terry Patterson, Director, Learning Technologies, University of St. Thomas Description: This engaging 30-minute conversation with four leading voices in educational technology explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in higher education. This discussion covers how AI is reshaping teaching strategies, enhancing student engagement, and redefining assessment practices in college classrooms. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions in advance, ensuring the conversation addresses the most pressing topics and concerns from our community.
2:15 pm - 2:30 pm	Day Wrap Up Description: Final thoughts and thank yous.
2:30 pm	Dismissal

Download the PDF (Print) Agenda

Thank Yous

Event Location and Parking

We are excited to welcome other area colleges and universities to our campus for UST Blackboard Day! Here are the details on parking and the event location.

Date: Friday, November 14

Location: University of St. Thomas

Address: 1100 Sul Ross St, Houston, TX 77006

Building: Jones Hall

Check In: 9:30 am - 10:30 am

A screenshot of Google Maps showing the eastern part of Houston and referencing the location of the University of St. Thomas campus.

Parking will be available at Parking Lot S located at the corner of Montrose Blvd and Branard Street. The parking lot entrance and exit is on Branard Street. Below is a screenshot of the parking lot and event location marked for reference. Please allow a few extra minutes for parking and walking to Jones Hall. Also below is a link to a PDF of our UST Campus Map.

A screenshot of Google Maps showing the location of the parking lot and Jones Hall. It also provided a dotted blue line for directions from the parking lot to the event location.

Download the UST Map - PDF (Print) Version

Event Feedback

The survey will be made available later.