Annual Conference at La Roche University to Explore Migration, Justice and Hope in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, March 12, 2026 – La Roche University and its Quainton Center for Global Engagement will host the annual Global Problems, Global Solutions conference on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Magdalen Chapel on the University’s campus.

This year’s theme, “Global Crossroads: Migration, Justice and Hope in Pittsburgh,” brings global challenges into a local context, examining how communities can respond to migration with compassion and understanding.

The conference will feature a keynote address, panel discussions and interactive sessions with scholars, advocates and community leaders. Registration and a networking breakfast will begin at 8 a.m. in the Horton Lounge, followed by a welcome from La Roche University President Christina Clark, Ph.D.

Jaime Martinez, executive director of Frontline DIGNITY, will deliver the opening keynote address. The program also will include a panel discussion on migration, justice and community engagement featuring regional advocates and legal experts.

Two breakout sessions will provide additional opportunities for learning and dialogue. Topics include the history of migration and the Constitution, educating multicultural learners, supporting migrant youth, and connecting through storytelling and listening.

Participants will take part in an IRL (In Real Life) Refugee Immersion Experience, an interactive session exploring the refugee journey through a Ukrainian narrative led by Pamela Thuswaldner, coordinator of educational partnerships and experiential learning at Thrive International.

The conference also will feature a Rapid Response ICE Training session led by Sheryl Meck, director of the Civil Rights Division at the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, offering guidance on how to respond if immigration enforcement actions occur in a community.

The conference is organized by the Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice and Inclusion at La Roche University.

“Global Problems, Global Solutions is designed to connect global issues with local experiences,” said Dr. Paul Spradley, executive director of the Ketteler Center. “This year’s theme highlights how migration and justice intersect in our own communities and encourages meaningful dialogue about how we can respond with compassion and action.”

Since 2004, Global Problems, Global Solutions has highlighted La Roche University’s commitment to global education and engagement. The conference uses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework for addressing complex global challenges and encouraging community-driven solutions.

Attendance is free and open to the public, but registration is required by Wednesday, April 1. View the full conference schedule here.  

For more information, please contact Dr. Paul Spradley at 412-536-1170 or paul.spradley@laroche.edu.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

###