Are you trying to figure out which higher ed conferences should be on your radar this year? Read on for our top picks for getting the most bang out of your professional development buck.
University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA)
Where: Washington, D.C.
When: March 22-24
UPCEA aims to be your go-to association for the latest in serving adult higher education units at universities and colleges across the field. This year’s annual conference is all about “partnerships, resilience, access, and inclusion.” Attendees will learn from leaders engaged in innovative global collaborations, interdisciplinary programs, and local partnerships focused on equity. Learn more here.
American Association of Community Colleges (AACC)
Where: Denver
When: April 1-4
Since 1920, AACC has served as an advocate for community colleges across the nation. As part of its efforts to support students, the organization hosts one of the largest annual conventions for community college professionals. This year’s event will play host to a variety of workshops and networking opportunities. You’ll also have a chance to hear from two major keynote speakers: Trever Noah (host of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show”) and Shawn Kanungo (former innovation expert for Deloitte). Learn more here.
National Association of Graduate Admissions Professionals (NAGAP)
Where: New York City
When: April 12-15
NAGAP prides itself as being “the only professional organization devoted exclusively to the concerns of individuals working in the graduate enrollment management (GEM) environment.” Every year, NAGAP hosts a summit where GEM professionals can network and gain insight from experts in the field. Along with educational sessions, this year’s conference will feature a keynote speech from April Hernandez Castillo whose inspiring story of overcoming adversity and abuse has reached students across the globe. Learn more here.
Pacific Northwest Association for College Admission Counseling (PNACAC): Super Conference
Where: Spokane, Washington
When: April 17-19
PNACAC, a regional affiliate of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), represents college admissions professionals across the Pacific Northwest region. At this year’s Super Conference, you’ll find an assortment of exciting sessions on topics including disability services, international students, and diversity. Learn more here.
Slate Summit
Where: Nashville
When: June 1-2
If you use Technolutions at your university, you’re not alone – more than 1,600 public and private institutions rely on the information management technology. Its flagship system, Slate, is so popular that it even has its own annual conference. This year’s summit offers everything from keynote speakers and networking opportunities to Slate learning sessions and dance parties. Learn more here.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
Where: Baltimore
When: Sept. 21-23
Founded in 1937, NACAC has accumulated more than 26,000 members across the globe. Its annual conferences for college admissions counseling professionals always receives the turnout. Last year, the conference attracted more than 6,000 participants with its education sessions, workshops, and exhibitors (which included Net Natives). Details about this year’s event have not been shared, so stay tuned to the organization’s website for the latest information. Learn more here.
European Association for International Education (EAIE)
Where: Rotterdam, Netherlands
When: Sept. 26-29
Founded in 1989, EAIE is the European center for expertise, networking, and resources in the internationalization of higher education.This year’s annual conference theme, “connecting currents,” promotes the importance of water and economic opportunities in Rotterdam. Event attendees will also enjoy a variety of networking events and workshops, which are available in-person and virtually. Learn more here.
The PIE (Professionals in International Education) Live: North America
Where: Boston
When: Nov. 13-14
Throughout the year, the PIE hosts multiple events around the world to bring together professionals in higher ed, edtech, and private education. This year, North American attendees will gather in Boston for a two-day, in-person event geared toward building connections. Learn more here.
American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers - Strategic Enrollment Management (AACRAO-SEM)
Where: Seattle
When: Nov. 5-8
Looking for insight on enrollment management strategies? Every year, AACRAO-SEM hosts a conference dedicated to the subject. Attendees at the 2023 event will learn about innovations in SEM leadership, managing succession planning, and committing to social justice and equality issues. Learn more here.
American Marketing Association Symposium for Marketing of Higher Education (AMA)
Where: Chicago
When: Nov. 12-18
From building a brand to reaching target audiences, the annual AMA Symposium offers a space for professionals to learn about and share their thoughts on all things higher education marketing. Information about this year’s conference is still to come. However, based on last year’s event, you can expect plenty of learning opportunities, including interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and roundtable discussions. Learn more here.
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