Almost daily, media sources report declines in the number of programs for our nation’s gifted and talented students; and new developments in theory and research in both gifted and general education demand a reexamination of the purposes and role of gifted education. Infusing some of our favorable practices into general education testifies to the leadership our field has taken in the past, but it is time to ask once again, what do we stand for? What is unique about gifted education? What are our ideas and responsibilities for remaining true to our mission to nurture students and prepare teachers? Is it time for a true renaissance movement in gifted education?

Joe Renzulli, director of the National Research Center on the Gifted and Talented at the University of Connecticut, will convene a panel of responders to answer these questions during the Saturday afternoon general session.