Review of the 49th Annual Hartman Institute Conference
Irving (Dallas), Texas • October 22–24 Theme: Curiosity as a Catalyst for Good
The 49th Annual Hartman Institute Conference drew nearly 40 dedicated “Hartmaniacs” to Irving (Dallas), Texas, for an inspiring three-day exploration of how curiosity can elevate the practice and impact of Formal Axiology. This year’s theme Curiosity as a Catalyst for Good, was woven thoughtfully through every session, conversation, and reflection.
The conference opened with a compelling address by RSHI President Emeritus and Wisdom Council member Dr. Art Ellis. He challenged participants to consider how Formal Axiology might be more deeply integrated into daily life rather than confined to the HVP assessment. His invitation to explore curiosity as a practical and transformational force set a thoughtful tone for the days ahead.
Day One featured a series of stimulating presentations from Clay Eure; Dr. Robert Sicora; Robert Calabrese; Jeremy Boone; Ron Oltmanns; RSHI President Jonathan Ciampi; and Dave Blanchard. Each speaker offered a unique lens on how curiosity shapes understanding, enriches decision-making, and strengthens both personal and professional development. Their insights collectively underscored the power of axiological thinking to illuminate patterns of thinking, challenge assumptions, and inspire personal growth and excellence.
The learning continued into Day Two, with Eddie Korbal, Fernanda Zenizo and Dr. Felipe Villegas, and Ken Blackwell guiding participants through deeper consideration of curiosity’s role in shaping meaningful, values-driven action. Their contributions demonstrated how curiosity fosters innovation (including advancing the use of AI,) deepens human connection, and expands the ways in which we apply the principles of Hartman’s work.
The conference concluded with a deeply moving presentation by Alina Gridley, who shared her own story of transformation interwoven with evocative poetry and reflection. She invited participants into an introspective exercise, asking each person to choose and hand paint a river rock symbolizing their “deepest self;” and then challenged us to place a real tangible value to it before they were exchanged with another attendee.
Following her presentation, the gathering came together for a heartfelt memorial tribute to Dr. KT Connor, President Emeritus and beloved Wisdom Council member, who passed away on September 5, 2025. Her profound influence on the Institute, her tireless dedication to advancing Hartman’s work, and her unwavering commitment to the axiological community were remembered with deep gratitude and emotion. It was a fitting and tender close to a conference grounded in reflection, meaning, and the enduring legacy of those who have shaped the RSHI.
Throughout the conference, participants expressed a renewed appreciation for the chance to be together, learn from one another, and reconnect with the vibrant axiological community. Many noted that this year’s event underscored not only the intellectual richness of Hartman’s work but also the strength of belonging and shared purpose that continues to define the Institute.
As anticipation builds for next year’s landmark celebration—the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the RSHI—gratitude goes to the 2025 Conference Planning Committee for their exceptional dedication: Sophie Coulthard, Carol Mettenbrink, Michael Patton, Eddie Korbal, Catherine Foster, and Chair Robert Calabrese. Their thoughtful planning ensured a warm, well-organized, and inspiring experience for all attendees.
