Dive into the art of character creation with our expert panelists! Discover how to craft unforgettable RPG characters that stand out. Learn how to develop backstories, define distinctive traits, and find balance between strengths and flaws. Participants: Scott Kevin Jamison, Jaymie Delia Wagner, John Gary Leppik, Jamie Riedesel (mod), Andrea Stephanie Herman
Which TV adaptations of popular science fiction/fantasy books have worked and which have been less successful? What do our panelists think makes a good adaptation? What books do our panelists dearly want to see on screen? Participants: Lee Harris, Annie Fleschner, T. Aaron Cisco (mod), John Shea, Jonathan Matthew Surdo
What will make you decide not to consume a particular book/movie/TV series? What tropes, characters, or events will make you decide something is not for you? Participants: Kelly Jo Fredrickson, Scott Kevin Jamison, Kate Dane (mod), Sarah Pierce
Veterans and newbies are welcome! Bring yourself and any extra fountain pen supplies you may want to share, and let's enjoy geeking out over our favorite writing tools. We'll have a demo table with pens for people to try and a swap area. Participants: Tania Richter (mod), Andy Dunn, Hedge Yoder
This panel aims to spread awareness and understanding about OCD. Society often has an inaccurate view of OCD and how it affects those suffering from it. Hear from those diagnosed and living with OCD, talk about representation in the media, and more. Participants: Jennifer Rogachevsky, Ren Nonnweiler, Hedy Rand-McKay, Alli M May (mod), Dani Mayville
As we see more canonical polyamorous representation in media, it seems like some media properties hint at throuples & polycules that are almost, but not quite, canon. Are these legitimate explorations of non-monogamy or are we being polyamory baited? Participants: Katherine Jo Pysick, Patti Anne DeMay (mod), Lathan Murrell, John Heimbuch
Popularity of the "cozy" board game has risen over the last couple of years. What constitutes a cozy board game? Why are they so popular? What are some go-to titles? Participants: Brandy McQueen, Erik Nyberg, Renate Fiora (mod), Philip F Henry
Let's talk about being fat at CVG! What are the intersectionalities that come with being a fat nerd/geek, and how does the media we love represent and demonize us? What does CONvergence do well to support us, and what can it do better? Participants: Mordecai Mika, Renate Fiora, Nikki Armstrong (mod), AJ Pete, Jessi Fox
The works of Jane Austen have been translated into multiple other contexts--Regency romance, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Clueless, and others. How is this still relevant today? Participants: Stephanie Cranford, Kirsten Hazel Roepke-Larsen, Sarah Barsness, Elizabeth Merritt (mod), Tina Connolly
A discussion on how to create inclusive and welcoming gaming environments. Learn about the importance of diversity in games, strategies for fostering inclusivity at your gaming table, and how to address and prevent toxicity in gaming communities. Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Grace Holdinghaus, Kerry Peterson, Katarina R Larsen (mod), Tanya DePass
Awards & promotions earned by members of the Grand Alliance will be presented in a formal ceremony, in dress uniform. Preceded by flag parade. All are welcome to attend. TRMN is the official fan organization of the Honorverse book series by David Weber. Participants: General John Neitz (mod)
Come discuss some of your favorite musicals and stage productions! How has Broadway changed since Hamilton, and what new shows are taking center stage? What local theaters and productions deserve recognition? Participants: Lance (Ru) Moody, Dawn Krosnowski (mod), Melissa J Arbuckle, Paige Elisabeth Erickson, Crystal Lynn Kelleher
Do you still feel safe to be "out and proud"? This panel is an opportunity for us to come together to discuss that very issue and find comfort in one another's identities. Participants: Erin Wilaby, Eiryn Katherine, Sean Eber, Kiki Joy Latham (mod), Mordecai Mika
Join your favorite Villainess from Far Far Away during a night of inappropriate hijinx and debauchery as she celebrates her win over that hideous ogre Shrek. Party games, prizes, and NO OGRES ALLOWED. Participants: Bailey Workman, Jennifer Golbuff
GPS is once again bringing in the U of M Raptor Center demonstration with live birds of prey, a perennial favorite. This year there will be an hour-long meet and greet booth immediately following the 9:30am panel.
Your favorite improvisors are back with more COMPLETELY TRUE and DEFINITELY REAL conspiracies! We've been telling you The Truth for over a decade and we're not stopping any time soon. Bring your questions about the world and we'll answer every single one. Participants: Tim Wick, Nick Glover, Molly Glover, Jeremy Stomberg, Jerry Belich
After 10 years, Bioware finally gave us a sequel to Dragon Age: Inquisition. How well did they do? What lingering questions do you still have? Participants: Brittany Ann Kerschner (mod), Caitlin Jean Sauve, Janna Seliger, Theo Quinlivan, Tanya DePass
Watch as talented artists are given impossible challenges! Could you create a CONvergence-themed amusement park in thirty minutes? How about designing a new Doctor Who costume in five minutes? These artists create the impossible! Participants: Melissa Kaercher, Tim Wick (mod)
