Drs. Smith & Ross Welcoming the Group
Full Group Session
Mentoring Services & Leadership Development
First Year & Family Experience Programs
Session Dr. Ross led
Breakout session
The Indiana University Student Leadership Conference is an annual statewide summit that unites student leaders and scholars from all nine IU campuses. More than just a meeting, it serves as a high-impact incubator for students to collaborate, share perspectives, and refine their leadership capabilities.
This year’s focus, “Elements of Empowerment: Unlocking the Leader Within You,” shifts the definition of leadership away from titles and toward personal development. The conference operates on the belief that leadership is a toolkit of specific "elements" that every student can identify and master to drive change.
In a university system as large as Indiana University, this conference bridges the gap between campuses—from Gary to New Albany. It provides a rare opportunity for coalition building, allowing students to form peer relationships that transcend geography and create a unified, powerful voice for the IU student body.
The 2026 Student Experience Conference will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Indiana Memorial Union. This year’s theme, Enhancing the Evolving Student Experience, addresses a pivotal moment in higher education. As the "traditional" student becomes a rarity, our campus communities must grapple with new questions regarding value, ROI, and belonging. This conference serves as a vital forum for academic leaders, student success professionals, and faculty to redesign models of campus culture and academic practice that meet the complex needs of today's learners.
The day’s programming is built around three interconnected tracks—Assessment, Student Engagement, and Institutional Strategy—offering a comprehensive look at the evidence and practices that drive student success. Whether you are interested in data-driven evaluation methodologies, innovative co-curricular programming, or high-level strategic partnerships that align with the IUB 2030 Strategic Plan, there is a wealth of knowledge to gain. Attendees can expect deep dives into breaking down institutional silos and fostering meaningful connections that support students from enrollment through graduation.
Registration is currently open and is free for all Indiana University faculty and staff. For our colleagues outside the IU system, early-bird rates of $35 are available until March 1 ($55 thereafter), and a block of rooms has been reserved at the Biddle Hotel for out-of-town guests. Dr. Ross is incredibly excited to lead the charge on this year's developmental vision, while Associate Director Taylor is mastering the operational excellence behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience. We look forward to seeing you in April for a day of transformative dialogue and collaboration!