Conference co-chair Dr. Scott Giltner anticipates welcoming guests to campus for the inaugural event and shared, “I believe river enthusiasts will benefit from the learning sessions and enjoy the networking opportunities, and many guests will look forward to hearing directly from Chad (Pregracke) during the banquet.” Honored as CNN’s Hero of the Year in 2013, Pregracke is living proof that one person can make a difference. During his keynote address, he will tell an inspiring story about growing up on the Mississippi River and how his experiences led to his unique vision to clean up the Mississippi River and start an internationally recognized not-for-profit organization, Living Lands & Waters.

The cost to attend the conference is $75 and includes three days of collaborative content, all meals, a conference banquet, and the excursion to Hannibal. Registration is open to anyone interested in river economy, history, business, or general river enthusiasts. To register for the conference or submit a presentation proposal at the Great River Collaborative Conference, visit /greatriverconference

For more information about The Great River Research Center or the conference, please contact Dr. Scott Giltner at greatriver@culver.edu.