Hillsdale College Blake Center for Faith and Freedom Hosts Classical Learning Consortium Conference
“What Is Classical Education? And Why New England Needs It”
HILLSDALE, Mich. — In partnership with Kepler Education, the Classical Learning Consortium for New England held a conference at Hillsdale College’s Blake Center for Faith and Freedom in Somers, Connecticut between July 15 and July 16. The conference launched the Classical Learning Consortium for New England and drew approximately 75 educators and administrations from the region.
“The Blake Center has beautiful property and facilities,” said Labin Duke, executive director of the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom. “We are glad to share them with groups like Kepler and the Classical Learning Consortium that do such good work.”
The conference, entitled “What Is Classical Education? And Why New England Needs It” featured four keynote talks and two break-out sessions on a variety of topics led by national and local classical educators. Eric Coykendall, director of operations of the Barney Charter School Initiative, spoke about starting a classical school with the help of Hillsdale College.
“Classical education seeks to shape the heart as well as the mind,” said Duke. “It is rooted in the pursuit of truth and motivates us to aspire to the highest things. The Blake Center is glad to have friends that share this mission in New England.”
For a high-resolution copy of the Hillsdale College clocktower logo, click here.
About the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom
Philanthropists Prestley and Helen Blake donated the buildings and acreage of their estate in Somers, Connecticut, to Hillsdale College in 2019. The Blake Center for Faith and Freedom is a religious institution that includes an exterior replica of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s renowned Virginian estate. The College utilizes the property to host events that further its mission, focusing on the foundational principles of faith and freedom. To this end, most events held at the Blake Center will have clear religious themes, focusing on topics relating to Christianity, man’s relationship to God, and on faith generally.