Navigating Policy Shifts in Higher Education: A Conference on Strategies for Progress
Live: September 16, 2025 — On-Demand through December 16, 2025
CFP Opened: March 26, 2025
Deadline for proposal submissions:
July 7, 2025
Notifications of acceptance sent by:
July 17, 2025
Accepted Proposals for:
- 45-minute concurrent sessions
The Call for Proposals is Now Closed
Live Event: September 16 | On Demand through December 16, 2025
We want you! We’re looking for forward-thinking higher education professionals, including educators, administrators, and leaders, who are passionate about navigating the evolving landscape of policy, governance, and student success in higher education. Institutions are facing rapid changes and we need your insights, expertise, and commitment to building inclusive, student-centered learning environments.
Share your expertise in a 45-minute concurrent session at our upcoming virtual conference, where attendees will gain actionable strategies, expert guidance, and the tools needed to tackle these complex challenges head-on.
TRACKS
Policy and Governance
This track explores how recent state and federal policy changes are impacting institutional governance, academic freedom, and campus operations. Sessions will focus on practical strategies for navigating legislative shifts, ensuring compliance, and balancing institutional values with evolving political landscapes. Attendees will gain insights into maintaining academic integrity, supporting student rights, and fostering open dialogue in response to shifting policies.
- Navigating State and Federal Policy Shifts
- Understanding the Impact of Legislative Changes on Campus Operations
- Strategies for Aligning Institutional Policies with Evolving Legal Frameworks
- Balancing Academic Freedom and Institutional ComplianceÂ
Student Support and Success
With changing policies affecting financial aid, inclusivity programs, and student services, this track provides strategies for supporting student success amid uncertainty. Sessions will explore proactive approaches to ensuring access, equity, and well-being for all students, especially those from marginalized or underrepresented backgrounds.
- Supporting Student Populations Amid Policy ShiftsÂ
- Ensuring Access and Resources for Marginalized and At-Risk StudentsÂ
- Rethinking Mental Health and Wellness Policies in Higher EdÂ
- Building Pathways for First-Generation and International StudentsÂ
Faculty and Staff Empowerment
As institutions face changes in tenure policies, academic freedom debates, and hiring practices, this track focuses on equipping faculty and staff with the tools to adapt. Sessions will cover strategies for navigating change, fostering professional growth, and supporting faculty well-being.
- Navigating Changes in Tenure, Academic Freedom, and Hiring PracticesÂ
- Developing Leadership Skills to Manage Change EffectivelyÂ
- Strategies for Supporting Faculty Well-Being in Uncertain TimesÂ
- Managing Resistance and Facilitating Constructive DialogueÂ
Campus Culture and Community Building
Shifting political and social landscapes can impact campus culture, creating tension among students, faculty, and staff. This track explores strategies for promoting open dialogue, strengthening campus relationships, and creating environments where diverse perspectives are valued.
- Creating Safe and Supportive Learning EnvironmentsÂ
- Strategies for Fostering Civil Discourse on CampusÂ
- Addressing Political Tensions in the Classroom and BeyondÂ
- Building Bridges Between Campus Stakeholders Amid ChangeÂ
Institutional Strategy and Leadership
Institutional leaders face mounting pressure to respond to policy shifts while maintaining their institution’s mission and values. This track offers guidance on strategic planning, transparent leadership, and aligning institutional goals with changing political climates.
- Strategic Planning in a Shifting Policy LandscapeÂ
- Leading with Transparency During Periods of UncertaintyÂ
- Reframing Institutional Values to Align with Changing ExpectationsÂ
- Strengthening Community Partnerships to Navigate Policy ShiftsÂ
Advocacy and Action
This track focuses on empowering faculty, staff, and students to advocate for their institutions and higher education at large. Sessions will provide actionable strategies for engaging policymakers, mobilizing campus communities, and driving positive change.
- Equipping Faculty and Staff to Advocate for Higher EducationÂ
- Building Coalitions to Support Policy ReformÂ
- Encouraging Student-Led Advocacy and Civic EngagementÂ
- Mobilizing Institutional Leaders to Drive ChangeÂ
MORE INFORMATION
Submitting a proposal is easy! Simply fill out the form and select the track that best fits. All proposals must include:
- Session title and abstract
- Content and context
- Three literature references
- Relevance
- Engagement activities
If accepted as a session presenter, you’ll make a meaningful contribution to this dynamic and interactive conference as well as extend your own network and grow professionally. All presenters must:
- Submit an electronic version of their PowerPoint slides
- Agree to having the session recorded for on-demand use
- Register for the conference (discounted fee for presenters: $299)