CHADRON – Chadron State College will host its annual Excellence in Early Childhood Education Conference Feb. 20 and 21.

A free session is open to the public Feb. 20 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. In a presentation titled 7 Wonders, 7 Lessons, conference keynote speaker Dean Jacobs will lead attendees on a journey around the world to explore seven timeless lessons: generosity, gratitude, dignity, curiosity, humility, respect, and kindness, and how they shape the way young children are raised and supported.

The conference sessions on Feb. 21 will start at 7:30 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. and registration is $50.

Jacobs’ keynote address is titled Dream Big, Live Tall: The Buffalo Mindset for Educators. In his address, he will invite early childhood professionals to rediscover their purpose, presence, and courage. Through inspiring stories and practical strategies, he will share how the buffalo’s instinct to face the storm becomes a metaphor for navigating challenges with dignity and heart. Educators will learn how to anchor their vision, stand tall in stressful moments, and create a ripple of hope and possibility for every child they serve.

Originally from Wahoo, Nebraska, Jacobs grew up on a farm and later moved to Fremont. He earned a Biology degree with minors in Earth Science and Art from Wayne State College, worked in administration, then spent a decade in sales and marketing at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. After leaving corporate life, he embarked on a 22-month journey across 28 countries, fueled by his passion for travel and photography.

A variety of morning breakout sessions on topics such as team building, communication, reading, and transitions will be led by Jacobs and local educators Dr. Julie Downing, Becky Hutchings, and Dawn Terrell.

Afternoon breakout topics include brain development, safety, and 8 to Great by presenters Renee Miller, Tim Flick, and Suzanne Crane.

The closing keynote, Carrying the Buffalo Heart Home, will contain a message from Jacobs to help educators integrate the insights, courage, and community gained throughout the conference and leave with a renewed sense of purpose, dignity, and hope.

Agenda Time
Registration 7:30-8:15 a.m.
Opening and Keynote  8:15-9:45 a.m.
Break 9:45-10:15 a.m.
Morning Breakout Sessions  10:15-11:45 a.m.
Working Lunch  11:45-12:45 p.m.
Afternoon Breakout Sessions 12:45-2:15 p.m.
Break    2:15-2:30 p.m.
Keynote and Closing  2:30-4 p.m.