Come listen to disabled authors, actors, and artists talk about managing their creative lives and their daily lives. Participants: Stephanie Cranford (mod), Camryn Carey, J.R. Dawson, Christine Galey, Tania Richter
When are board games art? Always? Never? How do the commercial realities of publishing board games conflict with artistic goals? What alternatives to commercial publication are art-driven game designers using? Participants: Tata (mod), Nicole Fende, Martin Grider, Alisha Volkman
For first timers or veterans who are pretty sure they don't know everything, this panel will try to teach you everything you need to know. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Nikki Armstrong, Brian Etchieson
Corvids have a reputation for wisdom, trickery, and mimicry and are important symbolic figures in many mythologies and cultures. They have appeared in fantasy stories as spies, wise creatures, or bad omens. Discuss our fascination with these creatures. Participants: Lisa Hario (mod), Renate Fiora Hyer, Satish Jayaraj, David Lenander, Kerry T Peterson
There are quite a few anime with a strong food focus. Come discuss your favorites! Participants: Kenneth Justiniano (mod), Amanda Bliss, Molly Glover, Sheko, Jessi Silver
It is weird how we only award movies the moment they come out. But do those films stand the test of time? We will reexamine the films of 2016 to see if they still hold up. Is Spotlight still the "best picture"? Participants: Duck Washington (mod), Windy Bowlsby, Garrick A Dietze, Andrea Ropella, Megan M Slawson
GoH John Kovalic discusses his work on the Munchkin game franchise and the long running Dork Tower comic. Participants: Edward Eastman (mod), John Kovalic
Kitchens are often cluttered with various devices. Which do you use constantly? Which gather dust? How can you find more uses for what you have or find more multi-faceted tools to replace many items at once? Participants: Alisha Srock (mod), Scott Grandt, K.N. Hamann, Tom Hyer, Erin Wilaby
Finding a good bookstore that isn't one of the last big chains seems to get harder every year. What are your favorite local shops? Participants: Eiryn Katherine (mod), Mallory Glass, Jeff Grapevine, Gus, Stephanie Olson
With the David Lynch memorial panel last year, there were so many questions about thoughts on Twin Peaks and what did things mean. We decided it might not be the worst idea to dedicate a panel to giving our thoughts on what we think things mean. Participants: Garrick A Dietze (mod), Drew Johnson, Sherry Pofahl Johnson, Caly McMorrow, Noel Thingvall
On the BROdcast Podcast, the elite Alpha Omega Geeks unlock forbidden high-value strategies like respecting women, acceptance > tolerance, and the grindset of empathy, compassion, and decency. The only podcast so dangerously dope, it's not even recorded! Participants: T. Aaron Cisco, Scott Wenker
Many of us view conventions as an escape but keeping con environments safe and inclusive means that we can't fully ignore sociopolitical issues. We'll discuss how to be more cognizant of this reality whether you're an attendee or an organizer. Participants: Miss Shannan (mod), Lauren Crabtree, Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Kerry T Peterson, Johanna Stark
Have you ever wanted to learn how ConSuite keeps filling up the bags of chips or how badging can be a great way to make new friends? Come find out from the CONvergence Volunteers Department how you can become volunteer powered.
Want to make a Star Wars costume, whether for fun or to join an official club, but don't know where to start? Is the complexity or cost holding you back? Join 501st and Rebel Legion members as we discuss affordable costumes that are easy to put together. Participants: Kayla Beckemeyer, Kat Hosley, Jill McTavish
The golem is a well-known figure from Jewish folklore. How has this concept and metaphor influenced science fiction and artificial intelligence (androids, cyborgs, etc.) stories throughout history and today? Participants: Jen Rogachevsky (mod), J.R. Dawson, Andrea Herman, Joe, Naomi Kritzer
Sci-fi adventure is a blast, but it can also be fun to deep dive into the deep thinking behind stories like The Three-Body Problem, Foundation, Dune, and more. What books, movies, and shows can you think of that make you think? Participants: Johanna Stark (mod), Kurt Fleschner, Dave Margosian, Rosewind, Boris Leonidovich Smelov
A discussion on what history can teach us about the combat systems of role playing games. How accurate are they? Are the weapons appropriate for the setting? What do RPGs get right and wrong? Participants: Paul David Bates (mod), Eddie, Daniel Jay-Dixon, Kenneth Justiniano, Jamie Riedesel
It's not just for dating anymore! Let's talk about how our understanding of consent has changed over the years. We'll talk about why it matters at CONvergence and outside of it as well as some strategies to apply the principles of consent in more areas of life. Participants: Kerry T Peterson (mod), Sean Eberle, KitKat, Natalya Rose, Nick the Board Game Librarian
Musicals are more than singing and dancing--they're fantasy, action, science fiction, even horror. Join alumni Guest of Honor Lee Harris and obsessive musicals fan Windy Bowlsby as they dive into what makes the musical format so familiar to the SF/F fan. Participants: Windy Bowlsby, Lee Harris
It's been said that in sci-fi, the magic is in the technology and in fantasy, magic is the technology. Where falls science fantasy? What stories do a good job of incorporating both elements? Participants: Kendrick Edmund Hogue (mod), Kate Dane, Skylar Merritt Schwartz, Samuel T. Weston, Dirk Ykema
Come learn all that CONvergence offers to our teen fans from other teen fans. Learn about the Teen Room, favorite volunteer options, and more. Participants: Azron Borchert (mod)
Before James Gunn took a hold of the DC cinematic universe, Nur-D created a personal retooling of the previous 15 DCEU films. Join him as he guides you through his vision! Participants: Nur-D
A panel to discuss the prevalence of book bans and book challenges and how they affect librarianship today. Bring us your questions and concerns so we can offer suggestions and commiserate together. This will primarily be a Q&A panel. Participants: Crystal Kelleher (mod), Princess Sam Irish Lass, Josiah John Mannion, Morgan Strickland, Kellee Lee Wolf
When you have genetic engineering for humans, humankind will change--possibly splitting or...who knows? What do the panelists think will happen? Can we sanction manipulating our offspring while avoiding the pitfalls of eugenics? Participants: Arthur J Kneeland (mod), Lee Brontide, Kurt Fleschner, Laura Okagaki
Gardening in the city can be difficult, from a lack of yard to plant to lacking sunlight due to building shade. What means exist to aid growing food in urban environments? Participants: Katie Heilman (mod), Jason Nesler, Springyboii, Johanna Stark, Erin Wilaby
Ok, maybe not "everything", but join our panelists as they tell you some surprising things about the world of publishing. Participants: Lee Harris (mod), Jay Gallentine, Jenny Goloboy, Laura Szatz, Madeleine Vasaly
The Victorians had Dracula and Dr. Frankenstein. The 50s had giant creatures. The 80s had Jason and Freddie. What do the things we consider monstrous or frightening say about us and our society? Participants: John Thomas Bliss (mod), Sonni de Soto, Brian Forrest, T'Yanna L Singleton
Oh heavens, our lovelies, this blows! Let's have a discussion about hormones (oral and otherwise), diet, and best practices to get us through these very difficult times. Participants: Miss Shannan (mod), Annie Fleschner, Sherry Pofahl Johnson, Dawn Krosnowski, Laura Okagaki
Learn the basics of sewing, from the various kinds and purposes of different stitches to how to determine which settings to use on your machine. Participants: Eiryn Katherine (mod), Cassara Carriere, Ashley M Mages, Elizabeth Merritt, Erin Wilaby
How do you create interesting antagonists for your protagonists? What tropes are helpful and which should you avoid? Participants: Kate Dane (mod), Dzhemi, Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Scott Jamison, Sarah Tasz
AMC+'s adaptations of Anne Rice's novels into the Immortal Universe have gotten a lot of buzz. We'll explore the following series: Interview with the Vampire/The Vampire Lestat, The Mayfair Witches, and Talamasca: The Secret Order. Participants: Mordecai Mika (mod), skazka 9000, Brian Forrest, T'Yanna L Singleton, Jody Wurl
The current online dating scene is a horror show. AI bots, fake accounts, honey traps--there are plenty of things to be wary of. How do you find love or fun in such a terrible landscape? What techniques have you found successful? Participants: Jin (mod), Kiki Joy Latham, Johanna Stark, Dirk Ykema
In recent years, indie devs have taken over PC video games with titles that cover every combination of topics and styles imaginable. Join our panelists while they attempt to discern if a game is safe to play at work based just on the name! **mature content** Participants: Geoffrey Benson, Lucien Benson
A mostly non-serious panel in which panelists will argue if and how gay sex would have fixed something. Would it fix a love triangle, a terrible movie ending, or maybe even the economy? **mature content** Participants: Henry Kaldhusdal (mod), Sean Eberle, Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Kiki Joy Latham, AJ Pete
Thursday July 2, 2026 11:30pm - Friday July 3, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 1, Lakeshore A
Squid Game is over, but the fandom lives on. Come discuss what you liked about the show and discuss what made the show so intriguing. There will be spoilers! Participants: Noel Thingvall (mod), Charlene Holm, Janelle Kloth, Kyo Phetnongphay
Thursday July 2, 2026 11:30pm - Friday July 3, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2, Greenway HI
In this world of increasing threats from mass surveillance and automation, how can we continue to be nerds and skeptical of the technology around us? What can the history of anti-technological movements tell us? Participants: Elizabeth Merritt (mod), John Thomas Bliss, David Carlson, Satish Jayaraj, Sarah Keuper
Get ready for a fan panel! Um, actually, let's Make Some Noise about all our Dirty Laundry, discuss Very Important People, say hi to Intrepid Heroes, and more! We've been here the whole time. Participants: Mark (mod), Lunate8, Danielle McKay, Jo Thrace, TK
Get your questions answered about participating in the Masquerade by the Masquerade director and staff. Participants: Patrick Cool, Donald Kaiser, Kori Kontz, Briar Livingston
Let's talk everything pro wrestling, and especially its intersection with other forms of nerd-dom! Who are some of your favorite geeky wrestlers? What storylines are so fantastical that they break the bounds of conventional kayfabe? Participants: Victor Adeola (mod), Ben Ellis, Mark Goldberg, Shanna Jansen, Andrew Snell
Books, movies, podcasts, streaming--we'll try to talk about it all! What are some of the horrors you've enjoyed since 2025's CONvergence? Meet up for a fun, lively look at the horror scene. Participants: Scarlet Overkill (mod), T. Aaron Cisco, Charlene Holm, Chris William Malone, Stephanie Olson
Ham radio has been around a long time and might sometimes seem old fashioned, but it's also full of innovation with people creating new platforms and working with satellites. We'll look at the old, the new, and see if it fits in with geek culture. Participants: Melanie Reap (mod), Edward Eastman, Aaron Lee Propes, Michael Scott Shappe
What major characters annoyed you? Did you keep watching or reading, and if so, how did you struggle through? Participants: KitKat (mod), Nick Fox, Sherry Pofahl Johnson, Dave Margosian, Elizabeth Merritt
You may not know it, but you may already have the basis for a great cosplay in your closet. Learn how to make use of everyday clothes. What tricks can you employ for putting together a costume from what you have already? Participants: Chris Wester (mod), John Thomas Bliss, Katie Heilman, Jera Of All Trades, Melanya
For first timers or veterans who are pretty sure they don't know everything, this panel will try to teach you everything you need to know. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Nikki Armstrong, Brian Etchieson
From Roddenberry and LeGuin to China Mieville and Greg Egan, sci-fi and fantasy writers have envisioned worlds and futures where socialism is a reality, or at least a present potential. Let's talk about those worlds and what they mean for our own. Participants: Boris Leonidovich Smelov (mod), Reed Alexander, Martin Peter Law, The Olive Knight, Samuel T. Weston
Just because you're Minnesotan doesn't mean you need to eat like one! Come learn where to find and how to use herbs and spices to broaden your culinary horizons. Participants: Saz (Mdog) Kos (mod), Sarah Barsness, Scott Grandt, K.N. Hamann, Erin Wilaby
What chapter books are popular among young readers? Let's hear from the real experts--the kids themselves. Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Tara Borton, Malcolm Dekker, Rose Grumdahl
Is Goku really the strongest? Is powerscaling that bad? Panelists bring their controversial takes, present them for debate, and invite the audience to weigh in. Participants: Princess Sam Irish Lass (mod), Amanda Bliss, John Thomas Bliss, Nur-D
Dive into the mysterious world of the submariner as we answer your questions about life and technology under the sea. We'll discuss engineering, sensors, weapons, environmental, living accommodations, and the group of people that keep it running silently! Participants: Kyle B Dekker (mod), Christopher Baye, Doug Kirks, Andrew McKay, Dan Stiglich
When crafting a story, creating actual diversity requires a great effort to avoid unintentionally tokenizing your characters. We will examine common mistakes and discuss ways to create diverse characters without tokenizing them. Participants: Kerry T Peterson (mod), Sonni de Soto, Eddie, Justin Edward Grays, Morgan Strickland
Cozy games come in many shapes and forms. What are your current favorites? Participants: Viga (mod), Allyson Cygan, Filima, John Kovalic, Dawn Krosnowski
We've come a long way from card catalogs and encyclopedias! How do you research a topic and evaluate sources? What are the hazards when googling for your information? Participants: Laura Okagaki (mod), Sarah Barsness, Jason Brown, J.R. Dawson, John Heimbuch
A discussion about online and local options for sourcing fabric and notions for your ever growing pile of projects. Participants: Kendrick Edmund Hogue (mod), skazka 9000, Cassara Carriere, Eiryn Katherine, Kori Kontz
What's your favorite clan? What role would you want to have in that clan? Come chat about your favorite parts of Warriors! Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Cassius Bastian-Stendahl, Kenzie Fleschner, Rose Grumdahl, Rey Wall
Given current politics, talking about climate change can be stressful, but that may make it that much more important to bring up. What are some strategies to get folks who are less inclined to be climate-conscious on board with green(er) initiatives or policies? Participants: Arthur J Kneeland (mod), Saz (Mdog) Kos, Mordecai Mika, Erin Wilaby
Let's talk about how small, independent game studios work and how their games differ from those produced by the big companies. Participants: Tata (mod), Andrea, Darren Andrle, Corbin
With lack of safety shoes for away missions, absence of seat belts for space battles, and transporter malfunctions, being in Starfleet is slightly safer than toaster bathing. Discuss the health and safety violations in Star Trek that make you aghast. Participants: Skylar Merritt Schwartz (mod), Assad Khaishgi, Stephen Nein, Laura Okagaki, Andrew Snell
The Evil Queen. The Headless Horseman. The death of Mufasa. How did these characters and scenes like these affect your childhood? Participants: Jera Of All Trades (mod), Kendrick Edmund Hogue, KitKat, Janelle Kloth, Eric Alexander Norton
What parents and guardians expect kids to find scary is often not what their kids think is scary. Why are adults so often wrong about this? Participants: Eric Alexander Norton (mod), Kyle B Dekker, Malcolm Dekker, Rose Grumdahl, Sammi
Come hear current and former Guests of Honor and other professionals talk about different aspects of voice acting work, from the physical side to the artistic merit. Participants: Colette Feehan (mod), Catero Colbert, Mike Dee, Christine Galey, Arif Kinchen
Have you introduced children in your life to your favorite fandom yet? If not, do you plan to? We will explore the roles of parents, guardians, and communities in promoting the healthy development of hobbies and interests for children and youth. Participants: Nick the Board Game Librarian (mod), Annelise Hodge, Shanna Jansen, Jennifer L Klumpp, Kellee Lee Wolf
Let's discuss the best and most relevant Star Wars content ever created: Andor Seasons 1 and 2 and Rogue 1! Participants: Damian Boldizs (mod), skazka 9000, Nybieee, Catherine Schaff-Stump, Eric Zawadzki
3D printing has grown from a niche hobby for dedicated tinkerers to a true maker's tool. From cosplay, to car parts, 3D printing is becoming common in many spaces. Covering the basics and new developments in the state of the art and science of 3D printing. Participants: Cary Christopherson, Dead Legato
Jim's got a new book out, Twelve Months. Let's discuss! What worked and what didn't? What are we looking forward to in Mirror Mirror? Has Harry suffered enough? Will he ever be happy? Participants: Nybieee (mod), Jesse DeLost Abrahamson, Scott Grandt, Jen Rogachevsky, Kellee Lee Wolf
From medieval court jesters to late night talk show hosts, it has been the comedian's role and privilege to speak truth to power. Why has the medium of comedy been granted this right? Participants: Kate Dane (mod), skazka 9000, Bobo, Brian, Janelle Kloth
The movies showed us a variety of cultures; Dwarf, Elf, Human, Hobbit. Each uniquely portrayed in various types of garb. But what isn't so obvious is the costume designers' reflection of Tolkien's own research. Participants: Rae Lundquist
Perfectionism ruins stories and arcane grammar rules inhibit all writers. But should we just give in to bad writing, accept tropes, and encourage messy creativity? Let's debate the merits of breaking convention. Participants: Anthony W. Eichenlaub (mod), Mallory Glass, John Heimbuch, Becca Justiniano, Stephanie Olson
What's your preference? Do some games lend themselves to one vs. the other? What about couch co-op? Participants: Amber Raden (mod), Allyson Cygan, Dzhemi, Dirk Ykema
Everything you wanted to know about running this con, but were too afraid to ask! Come meet the CONvergence Board and ask all the questions you maybe don't want the answers to. (We won't bite...hard.) Participants: David Bianchi, Hawthorne Fasching, CJ Mantel, Rachel Poleke, William Verburg-Cunningham, Rhea Wessendorf, Tim Wick
Want to learn more about what it's like to be a performer in the Twin Cities (and beyond)? Come hear stories from and ask questions of the cast of this year's CONvergence Cirque Show. Participants: Shadowcat Sophie
The MCU is coming up on 20 years, but some aspects of the franchise have not grown over time, namely good representation of Jewish characters despite the source material and comics history. Why is that and why does it matter? Where can they go from here? Participants: Jen Rogachevsky (mod), Kelly Brimbor, J.R. Dawson, Mark Goldberg, Kendrick Edmund Hogue
"It's time to play the music!" The Muppet Show is still beloved, fifty years on. Why are so many still fans? Could it ever return? Participants: Skylar Merritt Schwartz (mod), Dawn Krosnowski, Miss Shannan, Kaija Schmauss, Bryon David Stump
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: Hedy Rand-McKay, Jen Rogachevsky
Desire for realism is high in the cosplay community. When does it go too far? Is it okay to change skin tone to emulate characters of other races? What's the difference in emulating race and species? This will be uncomfortable; there's a nix on tangential subjects. Participants: Justin Edward Grays (mod), Sonni de Soto, Charlene Holm, Gregory Parks, Morgan Strickland
Mathematician and novelty singer-songwriter Tom Lehrer sadly passed away shortly after CVG2025. Let us pay tribute to the late King of Satire! Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Jeff Grapevine, Andrea Herman, Keeter Man, Johanna Stark
Dead By Daylight is a 4v1 horror game that's infamous for being not-so-beginner-friendly. Join a couple of seasoned DBD players as we discuss the core mechanics of gameplay, tips for newbies, and beginner-friendly builds for playing Killer and Survivor! Participants: Ashley Coyle, Andrea Allyn-DeMaris
Many feel existential dread regarding the current state of the world and use art as a counter or means of escape to find some catharsis. How do they channel those feelings into their creations? Participants: John Heimbuch (mod), Leslie Barlow, J.R. Dawson, John Kovalic, Springyboii
If you've ever wanted to wield the power your characters do, you can! But this isn't flashy prestidigitation or thunderous AoEs--more like maxed-out Luck, Intuition, and Wisdom. Learn about bringing (real) magic out of your games and into your life. Participants: Emily Allen
A panel to discuss everything about The Magnus Archives and get together to share enthusiasm about the podcast! Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Zaydden Johnson, Mordecai Mika, TG
Sea stories or lies, you be the judge! Our panel of intrepid mariners tell tales of daring-do mixed with occasional drunken debauchery in far-off lands, tomfoolery on duty, and other kinds of good trouble. Adults only, strong Language. Participants: Kyle B Dekker (mod), Christopher Baye, Doug Kirks, Andrew McKay, Dan Stiglich
Gender and gender identity can be very complicated for people. What paths have different people taken? How have they dealt with the challenges that come with them? Participants: Johanna Stark (mod), Eiryn Katherine, Cyn Sanchez, Skylar Merritt Schwartz
Friday July 3, 2026 11:30pm - Saturday July 4, 2026 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2, Greenway HI
Do you want to attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators to your yard? How much space do you actually need for the garden? What native species should you plant? Where can you find native plants? What resources are available to you to get started? Participants: Katie Heilman (mod), Arthur J Kneeland, Saz (Mdog) Kos, James Shaffer, Springyboii
Your feelings aren't fact. How can you talk with people who deny science and maybe actually reach them? Participants: Renate Fiora Hyer (mod), Jason Brown, Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Janelle Kloth
In anticipation of Dune Messiah, let's talk about our love for Dune--our favorite themes/characters, adaptations, and what we hope to see in the future. Participants: Jeff Grapevine (mod), Garrick A Dietze, Mark Goldberg, Sean C Novack, Dirk Ykema
Ever wanted to try a new art form but don't want to break the bank for something you're not sure you'll actually enjoy? We're here to teach you how to find supplies and basic training on a budget! Participants: Viga (mod), Allyson Cygan, Andrea Herman, Ren Nonnweiler, Erin Wilaby
From perseverance to self-worth, learning how to forgive to going "Plus Ultra", anime is full of genuinely good life lessons that can inspire us in the real world. Participants: Nick the Board Game Librarian (mod), J.C. Horvath, Lyda Morehouse
Kids discuss Roblox, including what they like and what they don't about the platform. Participants: Kenneth Justiniano (mod), Cassius Bastian-Stendahl, Kenzie Fleschner, Rey Wall
For first timers or veterans who are pretty sure they don't know everything, this panel will try to teach you everything you need to know. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Nikki Armstrong, Brian Etchieson, Carly Preston
Come hear sci-fi author and therapist Lee Brontide discuss the rapidly expanding future of embedded cybernetics and what psychology has to say about the nuanced ways that cybernetics could impact mental health--with both real and fictional examples. Participants: Lee Brontide
What is a 401k? Why care about a credit score? How do I budget sequins for my costume? Perhaps our parents and public education have not taught us enough to be financially literate. Join a panel of people who share their insights around money. Participants: Laura Okagaki (mod), Jin, Ashley M Mages, Erin Wilaby
Depression can be a self reinforcing cycle where it cuts us off from the things that sustain us! Let's talk about our experience of depression inside and outside of nerd-dom. Participants: Nybieee (mod), Renate Fiora Hyer, KitKat, Kiki Joy Latham, Natalya Rose
Discussing being a nerd and queer and how that intersects with loving and/or believing in cryptids. Open to believers and non-believers, you just need to love the topic of discussing being queer and how that relates to your interest in cryptids. Participants: Eddie (mod), skazka 9000, Reed Alexander, AJ Pete, TG
Have you ever seen a live performance with actors playing Klingons and wondered how they do it? Join us for some basic tips and helpful hints to get your best Klingon happening. Participants: Dawn Krosnowski (mod), Nathan Gerber, Lana Rosario, Laura Thurston
What are some of your favorite fantastical foods and drinks? How do you go about replicating them? Participants: Nybieee (mod), Scott Grandt, K.N. Hamann, Skylar Merritt Schwartz
In the past few years, the heat has turned way up for the relationships we have between the ghouls and the girls. Let's talk about our reception of this change to our "hear me out" lists. Participants: Lisa Hario (mod), Sonni de Soto, Mallory Glass, Charlene Holm, KitKat
What tribe of dragon would you want to be? What were your favorite twists in the series? Answer these questions and more, and offer your reactions to the latest book, The Hybrid Prince. Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Cassius Bastian-Stendahl, Kenzie Fleschner, Rose Grumdahl, Danielle McKay
Why gender a robot? What purpose does it serve? Does it help us form attachments? What does that say about how we view/perform gender in our everyday human lives? We'll address these questions and more as we explore our favorite cyber friends! Participants: Jules (mod), Lee Brontide, Naomi Kritzer, Jamie Riedesel, TG
Kids and teens discuss their views on AI. How do these views differ from peers? Have these views changed as new information has come out? Participants: Becca Justiniano (mod), Cassius Bastian-Stendahl, Azron Borchert, Henrietta Louise Buchan, Nick Fox
How do you introduce your loved ones to board games if they don't have any experience with them (or are littles or olds)? What games work well to get people hooked on the hobby? Participants: Renate Fiora Hyer (mod), Chris William Malone, Nybieee, Amber Raden, Nick the Board Game Librarian
Unconventional paths exist to working in STEM. You don't always have to have a PhD or go to school for STEM to work in the various fields. What roles in tech, medicine, etc. , don't need advanced degrees or have alternate paths to success than schooling? Participants: Stephen Nein (mod), Michael Contos, Vanessa East, Saz (Mdog) Kos, Kerry T Peterson
Building a pantheon can be an important part of world-building. How do you go about doing so without making yet another version of the same old gods? Participants: Kenneth Justiniano (mod), Reed Alexander, Eddie, Lisa Hario, Jamie Riedesel
Former CONvergence Guest of Honor, local filmmaker Troy LaFaye, moderates this panel discussion and Q&A featuring locally-based women filmmakers discussing their craft, their work, and the film industry. Participants: Troy Antoine LaFaye (mod), Jolanta Kissoon Young, Kari Layland, Vanessa Magowan Horrocks, Jennifer Prettyman
The nerdcore could rise up, it could get elevated...or has it passed its prime? Come talk about this subgenre of hip-hip and promote your favorite artists and tracks. Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Kelly Brimbor, Nathan Gerber, Ashley M Mages
Libraries are more than books--they're safe havens, community hubs, archives of knowledge, and launchpads for curiosity. As funding and access become battlegrounds, it's time to rediscover why libraries are irreplaceable. Participants: Jeff Grapevine (mod), Andrea Herman, Jennifer L Klumpp, Morgan Strickland, Nick the Board Game Librarian
Androids are often depicted in a future that promises to be equal for all, but that is often not true. What does it mean for artificial beings to be depicted as Black? How are androids and allegory intertwined? How does Afrofuturism explore these themes? Participants: T. Aaron Cisco (mod), Martin Peter Law, Nur-D, T'Yanna L Singleton
Have an appreciation for the creepy? Want your home to reflect your dark aesthetic? Join like-minded folks and hear of their journeys into finding macabre art to fit their style and tastes. Participants: Kelly Brimbor (mod), skazka 9000, Filima, Renate Fiora Hyer, Andrea Herman
Along with his contemporaries H.P. Lovecraft and Robert E. Howard, Clark Ashton Smith was the third of the Weird Tales "Big Three". We delve into the life and work of this unjustly neglected fantasist. Participants: Patrick G Harrigan (mod), Matthew Kessen, Tim Uren
How can we as parents, friends, and family members best support the queer kids in our lives? Whether it's gender identity, sexuality, fashion, education, and/or social skills, there's more to support than unconditional love. Participants: Nick Fox (mod), Annie Fleschner, Kenzie Fleschner, Kiki Joy Latham, Eric Alexander Norton
After all those years living with and trying to understand humans, do you sometimes wonder if Lt. Commander Data ended up more human than some of us? How do we measure this man? Boldly go where no android-centric panel has gone B-4! Participants: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Susanna Holt, Wes Huntington, Rosewind, Skylar Merritt Schwartz
Are you Kiki or are you Bouba? Martin and Cristina discuss the history of Kiki and Bouba, a 100 year-old study about synesthesia and the origin of language. Vampires are Kiki, the blob is Bouba, and we are all nerds with too much time on our hands. Participants: Martin Peter Law, Cristina Peterson
Star Trek is old enough to receive a senior citizen discount at the Klingon breakfast buffet. Revisit the beloved characters, innovative storytelling, and timeless themes that have made Star Trek a cultural phenomenon, inspiring dreamers and invention! Participants: Michael Scott Shappe (mod), T. Aaron Cisco, Cory Enriquez, Assad Khaishgi, Skylar Merritt Schwartz
Thirty-five years ago, Vampire: the Masquerade begat the World of Darkness. Let's celebrate by discussing our favorite aspects of the multi-game world, the d10 system they used, and the horrors inherent in the setting. Participants: Kenneth Justiniano (mod), Kelly Brimbor, Lisa Hario, Jennifer L Klumpp, Rosewind
The panel where we talk about anything and everything *except* the CONvergence Masquerade. If you are interested in everything *except* the masquerade, this is the panel for you! Participants: Molly Glover, Nick Glover, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Jeremy Stomberg
How do we survive, and how can we prepare to survive, the ongoing and upcoming world situation? Participants: Michael Contos (mod), Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Sherry Pofahl Johnson, Laura Okagaki, Johanna Stark
How does one play a constructed being in an RPG? Which systems lend themselves to construct PCs? What advantages and challenges are there to playing such a character? Participants: Kenneth Justiniano (mod), Scott Jamison, Jordan Lane Peacock, Jamie Riedesel, Eric Zawadzki
Do you have a particular playlist for any/all of your geeky pursuits? If so, you're not alone! Come listen to GoH John Kovalic, Sharon "Birdchick" Stiteler, and radio host Barb Abney discuss which of their hobbies got a soundtrack and how they're built. Participants: Barb Abney (mod), Birdchick, John Kovalic
Again, the punsters of CONvergence assemble without fear of flying fruit! Here, our puns are intended! Participants: Edward Eastman, Margaret Eastman, Brian LaBounty
From coffee shops to role swaps, fandoms often like to play with alternate universes (AUs). Which are our favorite AUs? Why are some AUs common or rare, especially in certain fandoms? What can AUs reveal about characters or maybe even about ourselves? Participants: Lyda Morehouse (mod), Susanna Holt, SaraBeth Ray, Nate Wulver, Zakharie
As authors, we lie all the time. We have to since science is so uncooperative. That said, we often have no idea what the real science is. How do we cheat to get the story told? Participants: Kate Dane (mod), Reed Alexander, Anthony W. Eichenlaub, Naomi Kritzer, Sarah Tasz
A celebration of our pets who can't be with us this weekend. Find the QR code outside of Programming Headquarters or Teen Room to submit pictures of your pets, and then join us to enjoy all the geeky pets. Participants: Corbin, Renate Fiora Hyer
With this current administration working diligently to take LGBT people out of our history, it's more important than ever to remember our queer-story. Come to the panel and hear the panelists' favorite LGBT people in history and share your own. Participants: Mordecai Mika (mod), J.R. Dawson, Sean Eberle, John Heimbuch, Eiryn Katherine
What movies didn't need a sequel but have one anyway? Stake your claim about franchises that shouldn't have been. There should be only one! Participants: Noel Thingvall (mod), Nate Anderson, Wendy Fossum, KitKat, The Vern
Chuck Tingle, T. Kingfisher, and the expanding landscape of horror and hope! What does it mean that there is such a thing as "feel good horror"? What is the role of queerness and not-straight-white-men in this? Participants: Josiah John Mannion (mod), Filima, KitKat, Lyda Morehouse, T'Yanna L Singleton
From Godzilla and Mothra to King Kong and the Titans, giant monsters are tons of fun! Come discuss your favorites. Participants: Scott Jamison (mod), Christopher Daniels, Dzhemi, Charlene Holm, Shanna Jansen
Each year North Country Gaylaxians chooses one book a month to read. Our charter is to read books either by LGBTQ+ authors or books with positive LGBTQ+ content. This panel will discuss the books we have read since CONvergence 2025. Participants: Donald Kaiser, David Lenander, Claudia Slovacek
From the newly premiered Starfleet Academy, to Strange New Worlds, to the ongoing hope for a fourth Kelvin timeline movie, join us to discuss what's new in the growing world of Star Trek. Participants: T. Aaron Cisco (mod), Tony Artym, Wes Huntington, Assad Khaishgi, Michael Scott Shappe
Art is often used to speak truth to power. Learn about various avenues and means of creating art as resistance. From sculpture and painting to performance art, we'll discuss it all (or at least what we can in an hour)! Participants: Naomi Kritzer (mod), Leslie Barlow, Kendrick Edmund Hogue, Lyda Morehouse
This panel will introduce the audience to two local conventions: ConFABulous, a GLBTQ+ and allies gaming relaxicon in October, and CONsole Room, the Minnesota Dr. Who convention in January. Participants: Amber Raden (mod), Ben Ellis, Donald Kaiser, Natasha Jo Krentz, David Lenander
What do you get when you combine a pandemic, a Zoom account, four TV series, one film, and three TV movies? A killer group chat, custom t-shirts, long-running in-jokes, and friends for life! Join us for a view of ALL things Stargate that is very personal. Participants: Windy Bowlsby (mod), Scott Jenicek, Laurie Richardson Sweep
Like Gundam? Macross? Transformers? So do we! Hang out and squee about your favorite mecha from any decade. Participants: Scott Jamison (mod), Christopher Daniels, Shanna Jansen, Viga
Want to get into cosplay but don't have a budget? Worried about the environment? Learn how you can recycle materials to cosplay on a budget AND reduce waste! Participants: Dana Baird (mod), Christine Galey, Katie Heilman, Chris Wester, Dirk Ykema
We've all had a friend expose us to strange music, some of which we've loved and some that left us confused. What happens when a lover of random items, thrift finds, and all things obscure exposes comedians to weird music they've never heard before? Participants: Jason Kruger (mod), Maren Aalgaard, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Miss Shannan, Dante Quinn, Duck Washington
Ever wondered if you may have ADHD or be autistic? Come hear from panelists about their experiences getting diagnosed as an adult. Learn how to advocate for yourself, what the process may look like, and what benefits a formal diagnosis may hold. Participants: Bobo (mod), Reed Alexander, Charlene Holm, Kiki Joy Latham, Springyboii
Let's talk about why we love CONvergence! What makes it so special, and what can it do better to not replicate all of the awful things about the outside world--phobia, cliques, gatekeeping. How can we welcome more people into this wonderful community? Participants: Pete Lane (mod), Sean Eberle, Janelle Kloth, Rhea Wessendorf
Find out who we lost this year in genre film and get some recommendations from the panel on what work to seek out. Participants: Garrick A Dietze (mod), Kelvin Hatle, Melissa Sue Kaercher, Megan M Slawson, Noel Thingvall
Fans of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Glee, and Coprock rejoice as you join with friends from Buffy, Xena, Psych, and many others to discuss musical episodes and shows. Why are they so popular? Participants: Kerry T Peterson (mod), Nikki Armstrong, Renate Fiora Hyer, Keeter Man, Kaija Schmauss
How does adapting a property to another medium change the story and how it's told? Are some stories better suited to certain media? Why? Participants: Amber Raden (mod), Megan Noel Johnson, Sean C Novack, SaraBeth Ray
Hear Christine Galey (R2-D2) and Susanna Malak (Gas Mask, Jawa) talk about Star Wars and other acting fun! Participants: Christine Galey, Susanna Malak
