On September 24, 2026, Au Sable welcomed 38 professors to our Great Lakes Campus for the Earthkeeping as Vocation conference and the annual Academic Advisory Council meeting. This year’s gathering included several faculty attending for the first time, as well as others returning after several years away. Their participation was deeply encouraging, reflecting a renewed passion for Au Sable’s mission and a strong commitment to the College Program.

On Friday, September 25, faculty representatives took part in several sessions led by NetVUE contributor and moderator Dr. Mari Elise Ewig, exploring earthkeeping practices and earthkeeping as a vocation. They also engaged in a rich conversation with Dr. Norman Wirzba, Professor of Christian Theology at Duke Divinity School, reflecting together on hope and the work of caring for creation.

Faculty participated in two hands‑on workshops as well! One was led by Dr. Joseph Kerski on spatial thinking and GIS, and another by Dustin Brighton on chainsaw safety. Both workshops highlighted skills and topics that Au Sable students experience during our summer program, offering faculty a direct window into the learning opportunities available to their students.

On Saturday, September 26, Au Sable held its annual Academic Advisory Council meeting, where faculty discussed the Au Sable College Program for 2027 and offered insight into how Au Sable can continue supporting the good work happening at their home institutions.

Thank you to all who traveled to be with us for this special conference and meeting. Your presence, wisdom, and partnership strengthen the mission of Au Sable and the community of educators who love God and love the good world he has created.