Digital technology has transformed the way people live, work and play, but that progress can come at a price. The Public Affairs Conference is here to open discussion on those obstacles and how to become better digital consumers.

“The 21st Century Digital World” is the theme of the 2019 conference at Missouri State University, Oct. 1-3. The conference includes:

• A total of 27 sessions.
• One pre-conference special event.
• A keynote speech from Bobby Bones.
• Four plenary speakers.

All are free and open to the public, with each session other than the keynote and a closing special event occurring at Plaster Student Union. No tickets or registration are required to attend any event.

Top country music DJ in America shares his story

Bobby Bones, vice president and creative director of iHeartCountry, has a “fiercely devoted following” (Washington Post) tuning in to his nationally syndicated radio show, The Bobby Bones Show. The show broadcasts to almost 140 stations and is the No. 1 country morning show with millions of weekly listeners.

Bones is also a best-selling author, stand-up comedian and philanthropist. He is a winner of “Dancing With the Stars” and has been a mentor on “American Idol.”

He will serve as the conference keynote speaker at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 1 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts.

Bones’ keynote is free and open to the public thanks to the Missouri State University Foundation with support from 100.5 The Wolf – #1 For New Country. No tickets or registration are required to attend.

Read more about the keynote

Schedule, parking and information

The Public Affairs Conference website provides background information about conference speakers and a complete program.

Guests can park for free at Bear Park North, with entrances off Cherry Street and Elm Street. They may also park at Bear Park South, located at the corner of Grand Street and Holland Avenue.

The free Bear Line shuttle provides transportation to Plaster Student Union from both parking garages.