Dr. Laura Aten
Speaker Bio
Laura Aten, MEd, EdD, is a retired educator with over 35 years of experience in teaching English Language Arts and Communication. A Texas native, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University in College Station. She began her teaching career in San Antonio before moving to Houston. There, she received her Master of Education from the University of Houston while teaching in the Alief Independent School District.
After starting her family, Laura returned to the San Antonio area to teach and live. Her love of developing engaging language arts and humanities curriculum for her students led her to complete her EdD in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Laura focused her action research on mentoring new teachers and using reflective practice to support experienced teachers. Her dissertation explored the ways that guided reflective journaling improved the professional practices of educators.
After retiring from teaching, Laura joined the staff at The University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine as a facilitator of small groups. She was responsible for leading first and second year medical students through forming healthy and efficient group dynamics, communicating in effective ways, and reflecting on their professional identity and physicianhood.
Laura enjoys all forms of communication arts. She has published two books and enjoys both hosting and participating in writing workshops, spoken word poetry events, and encouraging others to find their voice and share it. She believes that disciplined reflection and clear communication can play a transformational role in life and professional practice.
Laura and her husband Don have two adult children, Kate and Kris; and two four-legged eleven-year-olds, Harper and Junior. She is happiest when her house is filled with family and dogs!
Topics:
From Boomers to Zoomers: What Do You Meme?
Saturday, February 24th 2024 – 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Communication preferences differ among age groups and can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. This session focuses on achieving clear communication in a multigenerational workplace. Learning about these preferences is the first step in bridging gaps and meeting expectations in the workplace.
Leading With Style
Sunday, February 25th 2024 – 10:30am – 11:30am
Identifying and adapting your personal communication style can improve your workplace dynamic. This session will explore the most common communication styles and give you the opportunity to practice ways to effectively communicate with those whose styles differ from your own.