Sessions

Breakfast will be provided for all Institute participants. Breaking Barriers: Retention Solutions for Resource-Limited Campuses Let’s move beyond analysis paralysis together. This breakfast roundtable cuts through the noise with data-driven insights and real-world solutions. You’ll leave with insights and proven models from peer institutions facing similar challenges. Don’t let 2026 catch your institution unprepared—join the […]

You may attend the ecumenical worship service or visit one of these local churches for additional services.

CIC greatly values its partnerships with sponsoring companies and organizations that serve independent colleges and universities. As an expression of gratitude for their generous support, all sponsors of the Institute are invited to gather for celebration and conversation. Drinks and desserts will be available.

Immediately following the keynote address, greet old friends and meet new colleagues at this combination reception and dinner.

As students navigate complex academic, financial, career, social, and other decisions, it is essential for professionals to deliver timely and connected resources. This opening plenary session will describe current trends for providing holistic student support with a focus on four specific strategies. The session will conclude with practical examples that showcase the importance of cross-functional collaboration, effective uses of technology, and a clear commitment to centering students’ needs.

<em>(by invitation only)</em>

Schedule individual appointments with selected experts. Individual consultants’ schedules vary. Please sign up in advance by clicking the Sign up for Consultations link in the organization’s Sponsor page in the Guidebook event app.

This workshop is designed for those in roles that collaborate on student success on campuses. The workshop will cover effective practices in supporting students to achieve their academic and professional goals. Participants can include officers from academic services; student affairs; student support, diversity, belonging, inclusion, and culture; teaching and learning centers; career services and athletics; among others.

Having served for at least three or more years, chief academic officers usually have mastered the fundamentals of the role. At this stage, CAOs discover greater opportunities to lead rather than simply manage. What are the key questions CAOs can and should address at this stage in their careers? For example, how do CAOs balance attention to their institutions’ immediate issues with a focus on their long-term academic needs? How can CAOs attend to their own professional lives while also serving their institutions? How do CAOs work effectively with the president and other cabinet officers on strategic planning? Participants will explore these and related questions and gain fresh perspective on the next stage of their careers as CAOs.