2025 DKGNJ Convention Offerings
Cathy Fortunato, First Vice President, Program Planning/EEC
The Program Planning Committee selected an outstanding variety of workshop presentations for the 2025 DKGNJ State Convention that includes seven convention program workshops for all and three programs mainly for active educators. While there are two books discussion workshops being offered, we ask that you only register for one so that more members can be accommodated. The earlier you register, the better chance you have of getting your first choices for workshops. Please be sure to take the time to complete the workshop evaluations that will be available online. The information you provided in the previous year was instrumental in helping us plan for this year’s convention. We thank you in advance for all your suggestions and recommendations.
Saturday Morning 10:30 – 11:45
1. Snap Back into Shape and “Resist” Your Way to Fitness! Limited to 20 participants Filled and closed Februaary 8, 2025
Presenter: Dr. Pamela Albert Devine (Mu)
Facilitator: Teresa Cuesta (Mu)
Do you resist exercising? Do you find it difficult to fit regular exercise into your daily routine? Do you find exercise equipment daunting? Do you want an exercise routine that you can do anytime, anywhere? Are you curious about resistance band workouts? If you answered yes to any of these questions and your fitness goal is to tone up and get stronger and if you ready to turn it up a notch, then this workshop is for you!!
In this workshop you will learn about the benefits of resistance bands and take home a plethora of easy to do at home exercises to help you reach your goal! This one small tool can deliver a safe and effective full-body workout at home, on a break from work, in the gym, or on the road. Resistance bands allow you to challenge your muscles from different angles, which will help you with everyday life tasks. Think about it: You do not just move your arms side to side or your legs up and down. You want to be able to move in a variety of directions. Each exercise will target a specific area of the body, allowing you to build strength and tone.
The good news is, no matter your physical health or fitness goals, resistance bands have benefits for everyone. Studies have shown that regular resistance band training can improve balance, mobility, gait, and prevent falls, having an overall positive impact on your daily life. (No special clothing or equipment needed, please bring a water bottle in case you get thirsty!)
Presenter: Dr. Pamela Albert Devine (Mu)
Facilitator: Teresa Cuesta (Mu)
Do you resist exercising? Do you find it difficult to fit regular exercise into your daily routine? Do you find exercise equipment daunting? Do you want an exercise routine that you can do anytime, anywhere? Are you curious about resistance band workouts? If you answered yes to any of these questions and your fitness goal is to tone up and get stronger and if you ready to turn it up a notch, then this workshop is for you!!
In this workshop you will learn about the benefits of resistance bands and take home a plethora of easy to do at home exercises to help you reach your goal! This one small tool can deliver a safe and effective full-body workout at home, on a break from work, in the gym, or on the road. Resistance bands allow you to challenge your muscles from different angles, which will help you with everyday life tasks. Think about it: You do not just move your arms side to side or your legs up and down. You want to be able to move in a variety of directions. Each exercise will target a specific area of the body, allowing you to build strength and tone.
The good news is, no matter your physical health or fitness goals, resistance bands have benefits for everyone. Studies have shown that regular resistance band training can improve balance, mobility, gait, and prevent falls, having an overall positive impact on your daily life. (No special clothing or equipment needed, please bring a water bottle in case you get thirsty!)
2. 20 Minute Counseling: Simple Strategies to Make Life Better In and Out of the Classroom
Presenter: Shelly Gass, guest
Facilitator: Gail Starr (Omicron)
I will discuss how to bring the very best of you into the classroom in order to get the very best from your students. I will share strategies to help you feel motivated, positive, and excited every time you walk into your room. I always keep in mind the end goal of feeling your best every day. These strategies are easily applied outside of the classroom as well.
Presenter: Shelly Gass, guest
Facilitator: Gail Starr (Omicron)
I will discuss how to bring the very best of you into the classroom in order to get the very best from your students. I will share strategies to help you feel motivated, positive, and excited every time you walk into your room. I always keep in mind the end goal of feeling your best every day. These strategies are easily applied outside of the classroom as well.
3. Never Let Go of Your Dreams
Presenter: Ben Hartranft, guest
Facilitator: Janet Stapleton (Gamma)
This session details Ben’s journey through the maze of Autism. The presentation features Ben’s resilience working through diagnosis, finding appropriate services, academic struggles, and social understanding to become a strong advocate for Autism awareness and action. Navigating the “adult cliff” of transition to adulthood has been the most recent challenge and a work in progress. Ben’s dream of becoming a full-time speaker came true last year when Benergy1 Presentations was founded. His “Ben-ergy” for life is contagious. This humorous and passion filled presentation will inspire and encourage those who attend.
*** BOOK SALE***exclusively sold in the workshop room. Swinging from the Chandeliers, Finding Joy through the Journey of Autism by Sandy Hartranft, $20.00 cash
Presenter: Ben Hartranft, guest
Facilitator: Janet Stapleton (Gamma)
This session details Ben’s journey through the maze of Autism. The presentation features Ben’s resilience working through diagnosis, finding appropriate services, academic struggles, and social understanding to become a strong advocate for Autism awareness and action. Navigating the “adult cliff” of transition to adulthood has been the most recent challenge and a work in progress. Ben’s dream of becoming a full-time speaker came true last year when Benergy1 Presentations was founded. His “Ben-ergy” for life is contagious. This humorous and passion filled presentation will inspire and encourage those who attend.
*** BOOK SALE***exclusively sold in the workshop room. Swinging from the Chandeliers, Finding Joy through the Journey of Autism by Sandy Hartranft, $20.00 cash
4. Partnering with Parents and Community through Grant Writing
Presenter: Lorie Jeskey (Epsilon) 2017 New Jersey County Teacher of the Year
Facilitator: Allison Shelofsky (Rho)
Attendees will review a variety of grants and grant sources that the presenter has utilized to support and partner with her local school community and school family. Tips and tricks of grant writing will be discussed and possible sources of funding for attendees’ projects will be highlighted. Attendees will be encouraged to brainstorm grant project ideas and will leave with a call to action.
Presenter: Lorie Jeskey (Epsilon) 2017 New Jersey County Teacher of the Year
Facilitator: Allison Shelofsky (Rho)
Attendees will review a variety of grants and grant sources that the presenter has utilized to support and partner with her local school community and school family. Tips and tricks of grant writing will be discussed and possible sources of funding for attendees’ projects will be highlighted. Attendees will be encouraged to brainstorm grant project ideas and will leave with a call to action.
5. Book Discussion: The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray Limited to 30 particiapants
Leader: Susan Brezina (Epsilon)
Facilitator: Cathy Cleenput (Alpha)
Historical Fiction: A novel about the extraordinary partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune—an unlikely friendship that changed the world, from the New York Times bestselling authors of the Good Morning America, Book Club pick, The Personal Librarian.
Leader: Susan Brezina (Epsilon)
Facilitator: Cathy Cleenput (Alpha)
Historical Fiction: A novel about the extraordinary partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune—an unlikely friendship that changed the world, from the New York Times bestselling authors of the Good Morning America, Book Club pick, The Personal Librarian.
Saturday Afternoon 2:30- 3:45
6. Meet the Authors!
Presenters: Panel
Facilitators: Dr. Terri Evans (Lambda) and Tracey Holland (Eta)
Panel of four DKGNJ State authors of children’s books. Authors will each introduce their own book, tell the inspiration for the story, and their personal writing and
publishing process. Time is allotted for a brief question and answer session.
● Ben and the Amazing Animal Adventure by Dr. Denise Furlong (Lambda)
● Max's Tree by Sharon Gardner (Iota)
● Meatball's Mixed-Up Moods by Cathy Longano (Mu)
● Let's Move Like the Animals in the Forest and Let’s Move Like the Animals in the Artic by Marie-Luise Weiss (Lambda)
Presenters: Panel
Facilitators: Dr. Terri Evans (Lambda) and Tracey Holland (Eta)
Panel of four DKGNJ State authors of children’s books. Authors will each introduce their own book, tell the inspiration for the story, and their personal writing and
publishing process. Time is allotted for a brief question and answer session.
● Ben and the Amazing Animal Adventure by Dr. Denise Furlong (Lambda)
● Max's Tree by Sharon Gardner (Iota)
● Meatball's Mixed-Up Moods by Cathy Longano (Mu)
● Let's Move Like the Animals in the Forest and Let’s Move Like the Animals in the Artic by Marie-Luise Weiss (Lambda)
7. Empowering Women Through Awareness: A Breast Cancer Awareness Informational Session
Presenter: Lisa Hirkaler (Epsilon) 2016 New Jersey County Teacher of the Year
Facilitator: Barbara Henderson (Epsilon)
This program outlines an initiative to support breast cancer awareness, promote women's health, and foster a community of hope and resilience. Our goal is to educate attendees about breast cancer care options available in our area, share personal stories, and encourage proactive health decisions. **Educate** members and the community on breast cancer awareness, care, treatment options, and aftercare resources. - **Empower** women to trust their instincts regarding their health and wellness. - **Foster Community Support** through a fundraising initiative, "Pink DKG," to provide care packages and resources for women in need. Open to all ages, with a special focus on women and their families. This session represents an opportunity for education, connection, and empowerment. By focusing on hope and possibilities, we can help women navigate their health journeys and support those in need. Let’s come together to make a difference!
Presenter: Lisa Hirkaler (Epsilon) 2016 New Jersey County Teacher of the Year
Facilitator: Barbara Henderson (Epsilon)
This program outlines an initiative to support breast cancer awareness, promote women's health, and foster a community of hope and resilience. Our goal is to educate attendees about breast cancer care options available in our area, share personal stories, and encourage proactive health decisions. **Educate** members and the community on breast cancer awareness, care, treatment options, and aftercare resources. - **Empower** women to trust their instincts regarding their health and wellness. - **Foster Community Support** through a fundraising initiative, "Pink DKG," to provide care packages and resources for women in need. Open to all ages, with a special focus on women and their families. This session represents an opportunity for education, connection, and empowerment. By focusing on hope and possibilities, we can help women navigate their health journeys and support those in need. Let’s come together to make a difference!
8. Line Dancing Class Limited to 20 participants
Presenter: Linda Hyland (Lambda)
Facilitator: Mariam Altieri (Lambda)
Spend time with your sisters and a highly qualified instructor dancing with easy-to-follow steps, emphasis on movement and fun. Enjoy dancing to familiar popular music, the songs of the ‘60’s, country western, and contemporary music. Music equipment is provided and music selections will be played for your enjoyment. Linda is a retired elementary teacher who taught in Long Hill Township for twenty-six years. With dance training since the age of four, Linda currently instructs line dancing classes nine times a week in Bridgewater, Chatham, Fanwood, Green Brook, Long Hill, and Piscataway.
Presenter: Linda Hyland (Lambda)
Facilitator: Mariam Altieri (Lambda)
Spend time with your sisters and a highly qualified instructor dancing with easy-to-follow steps, emphasis on movement and fun. Enjoy dancing to familiar popular music, the songs of the ‘60’s, country western, and contemporary music. Music equipment is provided and music selections will be played for your enjoyment. Linda is a retired elementary teacher who taught in Long Hill Township for twenty-six years. With dance training since the age of four, Linda currently instructs line dancing classes nine times a week in Bridgewater, Chatham, Fanwood, Green Brook, Long Hill, and Piscataway.
9. Teaching for Equity and Justice Across Content Areas
Presenter: Theresa Maughan (Alpha) 2022 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year and Presenter at the 2024 DKG International Convention in National Harbor, Maryland
Facilitator: Luella Vengenock (Beta)
How can educators bring a critical consciousness lens to their classrooms, curriculum, and student interactions? How can we work to create classrooms that
are inclusive, joyful, and center students' humanity? This presentation takes participants on a powerful journey that begins with an examination of self. We will
determine how to implement changes to your teaching that benefit students and you, and gain tools to face the challenges that arise in equity work.
Presenter: Theresa Maughan (Alpha) 2022 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year and Presenter at the 2024 DKG International Convention in National Harbor, Maryland
Facilitator: Luella Vengenock (Beta)
How can educators bring a critical consciousness lens to their classrooms, curriculum, and student interactions? How can we work to create classrooms that
are inclusive, joyful, and center students' humanity? This presentation takes participants on a powerful journey that begins with an examination of self. We will
determine how to implement changes to your teaching that benefit students and you, and gain tools to face the challenges that arise in equity work.
10. Book Discussion: The Women by Kristin Hannah Limited to 30 participants
Leader: Nola Tosti (Nu)
Facilitator: Rose Rhine (Xi)
Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path. As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost. But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends.
The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam. The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten.
Leader: Nola Tosti (Nu)
Facilitator: Rose Rhine (Xi)
Women can be heroes. When twenty-year-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path. As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky, the brave, the broken, and the lost. But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends.
The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam. The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten.
