Playposium

is a gathering of people dedicated to

transforming education

through the power of play.

Professors At Play Playposium 2025

is brought to you by the Unlikely Collaborators Foundation and in partnership with the National Institute of Play and the University of Denver.

Life without play is a grinding, mechanical existence organized around doing the things necessary for survival. Play is the stick that stirs the drink. It is the basis of all art, games, books, sports, movies, fashion, fun, and wonder—in short, the basis of what we think of as civilization.
— Dr. Stuart Brown, Founder of National Institute for Play & keynote speaker at Playposium 2024

Are you ready to play?

Professors at Play Playposium 2025 invites you to join a dynamic group of educators this summer in the Colorado Rockies.

Running June 23 – 26th at the University of Denver’s Kennedy Mountain Campus, this 4-day, 3-night retreat will challenge you to think differently about your teaching.

The Playposium focuses on the unique needs of educators working in and around higher education. But the transformational message of play is relevant to anyone working in adult and teen learning. Want to change how you think about your role as a teacher, how you teach and how your students learn? Get ready to challenge your Perception Box! The Playposium can help!

The adventure starts at noon on Tuesday, June 23rd. Playposium campers will assemble at the University of Denver Campus and be loaded onto buses. From there, we will be whisked up into the mountains for a program packed with play, creation, community, and lots of relaxing time surrounded by nature. The group cabins are up-to-date shared living spaces you remember as a kid. The included meals will take place in the community dining room.

And yes, there will be s’mores.

Check out the schedule for more information about the venue and the event structure.

Have question? Let us know! hello@professorsatplay.org

Premise

How might we increase learner and educator recruitment, retention, wellness and success by incorporating play, games, fun and joy into teaching and learning in education?

What is a “Playposium” and who is it for?

A Playposium is an experiential and creative gathering of like-minded people interested in transforming education through the power of playful pedagogy.

Attending a Playposium is an investment in learning new skills, challenging old ideas and contributing to a better understanding of what play is and how it can change lives.

A Playpoium is also inclusive. It invites anyone at any level with an interest in play education to attend, learn and contribute. Past events have included designers, speakers, coaches, teachers, makers, inventors and dreamers. If you think you belong at the Playpsoium, this is a personal invitation to join us!