Independent higher education has long championed human flourishing amidst the impersonal pressure of economic and technological change. Centering humane values such as health, creativity, relationships, integrated knowledge, place, and vocation, our institutions have the opportunity and the responsibility to lead in a dispirited and increasingly inhumane world. At the 2027 Presidents Institute, join us in reimagining the ways these human horizons can help our colleges and universities thrive.
Who Should Participate?
Each year, the Presidents Institute gathers more than 300 independent college and university presidents among nearly 750 total participants. Presidents, presidential spouses and partners, industry sponsors, and retired presidents are all eligible to register for the Institute. In addition to the main program for presidents (January 4–7), the Institute includes a parallel program for spouses and partners.
Just prior to the opening of the Presidents Institute, we also offer the New Presidents Program (NPP) on January 3–4, for CIC member presidents in their first or second year at an independent college or university. NPP includes a parallel program for spouses and partners of new presidents, as well.
Pre-Institute Programs
January 3–4
New Presidents Program
CIC’s New Presidents Program (NPP) provides the relevant tools and wise counsel that keep a new presidency on a smooth course. The agenda focuses on the practical needs and resources to help participants avoid early pitfalls while capitalizing on the opportunities that the first few years represent. Ample opportunities for formal and informal conversations allow participants to build community.
Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program
The presidency of an institution is often a collaborative effort between presidents and their partners. Together they can advance initiatives, facilitate conversations, and support each other in their personal and professional growth. The Spouses and Partners of New Presidents Program, which runs concurrently with CIC’s New Presidents Program, offers participants support and guidance to make that vision a reality. Participants will receive training, resources, and networking opportunities that will help them become powerful and dynamic partners that work alongside presidents coming into their new roles.
Post-Institute Workshop
January 7
Financial Challenges
Presidents are managing a period of exceptional economic instability. This interactive workshop and accompanying sessions will equip presidents with strategies to analyze, address, and overcome financial challenges facing their institutions.
Hotel and Travel
Hotel Reservations
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
1 Park Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 564-3333
Presidents Institute Room Rate:
$279 single/double per night
Deadline for CIC Rate:
December 1, 2026
Hotel Reservation Procedure: To receive the CIC discounted hotel rate, participants must first register for the Presidents Institute. Participants will receive a room rate discount code as part of their registration confirmation email.
Registration will open in early August.
Being a CIC member has its perks! Members receive discounted registration rates for the Presidents Institute as well as many other CIC programs.
Join CIC to access a host of services. For more information, view the full list of member benefits.