In 2024, I reconnected with Denis and shared his history and new ventures with the New York State Council for the Social Studies executive board at the National Council for the Social Studies annual conference in Boston. Our board members were smitten with his vision, passion, energy, and speaking talents. Subsequently, we contracted Denis for our 88th annual convention in Albany, New York on March 6, 2025, for a keynote and breakout session.

Denis kicked off day one of our convention with a riveting keynote address about all the nuances needed for a recreation of Marco Polo’s seminal journey on the Silk Road. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to host many incredible presenters, but Denis was simply outstanding. Many long-time attendees reported that Denis’s presentation was significantly impactful on many levels and that he was the best speaker that we have ever had.

Denis is not only a remarkable historian with decades of experience exploring the world, but unusually for a keynote that we would choose, has pioneered a highly innovative digital Social Studies enrichment curriculum that is highly engaging and well credentialed. These immersive programs, presented as ‘Journeys’ led by modern-day explorers, allow students to explore historical journeys from the Silk Road to West African trade routes, Lewis & Clark, and many others. EdTech Digest has hailed his work as a stand-out resource due to the merger between the best current instructional practices and future-worthy vehicles to better learning.

The transformative programs offered via his Jn the Footsteps of History web-based app are fresh, historically accurate, and from my 35 years in Social Studies education groundbreaking. Given this, as a board, we were eager to provide him a breakout session giving our attendees the opportunity to inquire and make important decisions with the materials available. His breakout session showcased his digital products, further solidifying his reputation as a transformative figure in education.

Thank you for the opportunity to present Denis and his qualities. I cannot recommend Denis Belliveau enough for a speaking engagement with your organization. Please contact me at (845) 417-7852 or treasurer‘@nyscss.org for more details.

Sincerely,

Timothy D. Potts

New York State Council for the Social Studies Past-President and current Treasurer/CFO

National Social Studies Leaders’ Association Board Member

35-year veteran Social Studies Teacher