Two University of Findlay faculty members have been selected as keynote speakers at the 13th World Congress on Special Needs Education (WCSNE-2026), to be held November 23–25, 2026, at St. Anne’s College, a constituent college of the University of Oxford, in Oxford, United Kingdom.
University of Findlay faculty members Kara Parker, EdD and Jon Brasfield, PhD were chosen through the conference’s competitive, peer-reviewed selection process after submitting a proposal titled “When Behavior Is Communication: Preparing Educators for Trauma-Responsive Classrooms.” The presentation will be co-delivered, drawing on the presenters’ combined backgrounds in school psychology, counseling, trauma-informed practices, educational research, and educator preparation.
Being named keynote speakers means the University of Findlay faculty will address the conference’s entire audience, an honor reflecting international recognition of the University’s work in the field.
“This is an impressive example of recognizing on a world stage the innovative curriculum our faculty provides our students while preparing them for a meaningful career in education,” commented Julie McIntosh, EdD and dean of the College of Education. “It demonstrates our responsive approach to the growing concerns in classrooms surrounding trauma, mental health, and strategies to support learners worldwide,” she added.
A Focus on Trauma-Responsive Educator Preparation
The presentation will highlight how the University of Findlay’s Doctor of Education programs intentionally embed trauma-responsive practices and trauma-informed care throughout coursework and professional preparation, rather than treating the subject as a standalone topic or single workshop. Among the courses supporting this approach is “Educators as First Responders: Crisis, Counseling, and Trauma-Informed Support,” designed to help future educational leaders understand student mental health, crisis response, behavioral communication, and trauma-responsive practices in schools.
“A central theme of the presentation is that student behavior is often a form of communication rather than simple noncompliance or defiance,” added Kara Parker, EdD. “Attendees will leave with practical strategies for recognizing trauma-related behaviors, responding in ways that support regulation and connection, and building classroom environments that support both student well-being and academic achievement.”
Addressing a Growing Global Need
Trauma-responsive education has become an increasingly important focus for schools nationwide and internationally as they confront rising mental health concerns, behavioral challenges, and the lasting effects of stress and adversity on children. The presentation’s themes align with broader shifts in education toward proactive, relationship-based approaches and connect to growing areas of focus including social-emotional learning, school mental health integration, educator training, and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS). “Our mission to create meaningful lives and productive careers through teaching fosters healthier overall communities regardless of their specific location in the world,” added Jon Brasfield, PhD and co-presenter. “This is how we prepare our students to respond to needs with both skill and compassion towards others” he concluded.
About the Conference
WCSNE-2026 brings together researchers, university faculty, school professionals, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world. Conference topics span special education, mental health supports, accessibility, innovative interventions, assistive technology, and emerging practices for supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. The audience includes international educators, researchers, administrators, psychologists, therapists, university faculty, and educational leaders committed to improving outcomes for students with disabilities and diverse learning needs.
About the University of Findlay
The University of Findlay’s College of Education continues to position itself as a leader in trauma-informed educator preparation, reflecting the University’s broader commitment to developing compassionate, knowledgeable, and highly prepared professionals for the field of education. Established in 1882 through a partnership between the Churches of God, General Conference and the city of Findlay, University of Findlay is known for excellence in its science, health professions, animal science and equestrian studies programs, but also for cultivating the next generation of business leaders, educators, and innovative thinkers through a dedication to experiential learning in and outside of the classroom. With a mission to equip students for meaningful lives and productive careers, University of Findlay offers more than 85+ bachelor’s degrees, 10 master’s degrees, and five doctorate-level degree programs. The 403-acre campus includes an Animal Science and Western Equestrian Riding Complex, English Equestrian Riding Farm, All Hazards Training Center and a 55-acre wetland to offer hands-on learning opportunities for all students. A proud member of the NCAA Division II Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC), University of Findlay students compete as the Oilers on 22 men’s and women’s teams.
For more information, visit www.findlay.edu
