On behalf of Morgan State University, NCEED welcomed participants from across the state to the 9th Maryland Cultural Proficiency Conference. This year, we’re diving deep into the theme: “Familiar Territory: Looking Back to Move Forward”. Together, we’ll explore our shared history, spark fresh ideas, and empower transformative change. Connect with educators, leaders, and community members from across Maryland who are dedicated to fostering inclusive environments!

In 2015, a team of individuals representing Baltimore County Public Schools, Community College of Baltimore County, Loyola University Maryland, Morgan State University, and Notre Dame of Maryland gathered to discuss the possibilities of hosting a local conference. Among the core group were three graduates of doctoral programs offered by Morgan’s School of Education and Urban Studies working in partnership with, now, MSU Professor Emeritus Dr. Warren Hayman, an architect of cultural proficiency pedagogical practice for teachers. The group launched the Maryland Cultural Proficiency Conference, which will host its 9th conference this year. Since 2015, the conference has grown from one institution and one local school district to an informal collaborative of local universities, multiple school districts, and non-profit associations. Similarly, the conference has grown from 225 attendees to over 500. The informal network of institutional partners has included Baltimore City Public Schools, Baltimore County Public Schools, Community College of Baltimore County, Loyola University, Morgan State University, Notre Dame of Maryland University, Positive Schools Center, and The Y in Central Maryland.

Participants will reflect on how far we’ve come and discuss the bold steps needed to ensure a choice-filled life for all our students and healthier and happier work environments for the people who support them. This conference serves as a vital platform for educators, leaders, and community advocates to come together, reflect on our journey, and forge new pathways in this space. NCEED’s mission to conduct research that illuminates the causes and manifestations of educational disparities will be informed by participants of the conference. It will inform how we design and implement evidence-based interventions, build coalitions, and mobilize resources to eliminate these disparities. We are proud to be partners in this conference because its goals align directly with our mission and the impact we want to make in education. Our partnership also reflects our shared commitment to fostering cultural proficiency and creating sustainable change within the education systems, essential to closing opportunity gaps and ensuring every student thrives.