Call for Proposals is Now Open

WSCUC is seeking fresh perspectives and actionable insights that reflect the theme, Mission > Action > Impact. Submit your proposal by October 15 to share forward-looking ideas, address pressing challenges, celebrate successes, and showcase stories of impact within the following tracks:

Continuous Improvement and Institutional Effectiveness

Dive into effective practices in program review, assessment, and quality assurance to close the loop between mission, continuous improvement, and institutional impact.

Harnessing Technology for Transformative Impact

Explore how institutions are integrating emerging technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and operations. Share strategies that align technological innovation (including AI, data tools, and digital platforms) with institutional values and prepare students for a tech-driven world.

Insights That Drive Action

Highlight how institutions are building data capacity, strengthening research, and advancing data governance to understand students and inform strategic decisions. Share insights on fostering an institutional data culture and how evidence is being translated into planning, resource allocation, and action.

Mission-driven Innovation

Explore opportunities for academic innovation that transform programs or pedagogy in ways that align with institutional mission and student outcomes. Share practices or institutional approaches that respond to the evolving needs of today’s students, support workforce readiness, and create more flexible, relevant, and accessible learning experiences.

Navigating Tomorrow Together

The future of higher education is evolving. Engage with forward-thinking strategies that respond to financial pressures, regulatory changes, and demographic shifts, grounded in evidence and planning.

Success For All Students

Share how to support our students, identify and remove barriers to success, and link practices to improved outcomes, whether focused on metrics such as course completion, retention, and progression; qualitative indicators of engagement or personal growth; or long-term postgraduate achievement.

PRESENTATION FORMATS

ARC2026 offers flexible presentation formats that encourage engaging, participant-centered sessions. Select the format that best showcases your ideas, but note that conference organizers may suggest an alternative format.

Symposium (60 minutes)

These hour-long presentations are led by one or more speakers and emphasize interaction through discussion and reflection. A symposium can also be used for a panel discussion. Some proposals on complementary topics may be paired with another presenter in a combined session guided by a moderator who introduces speakers, provides context, and facilitates the Q&A.

Workshop (60 minutes)

Workshop sessions are led by one or more facilitators and emphasize interaction through direct engagement. Attendees will be able to engage in small group discussions and complete activities at tables.

ARC Conversations (10-15 minutes)

ARC Conversations are concise, targeted presentations designed to spark discussion. These sessions are brief, well-prepared, and delivered with clarity, focusing on a single, persuasive idea. Conversation sessions include two to three related topics in a one-hour, moderated presentation.

Poster Presentation

The Thursday evening poster session, held during the reception, offers an informal setting to present your work, particularly projects in progress or focused on niche topics. Poster presentations encourage one-on-one conversations and networking.

Key Dates

  • October 15, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PT ­– Proposal submission deadline
  • Late December 2025 through January 2026 – Proposal status notifications emailed
  • March 20, 2026 – Last day to submit electronic materials for presentation at ARC2026
  • April 8-10, 2026 – ARC2026: Mission > Action > Impact

FAQs

Who should submit a proposal for ARC2026?

ARC2026 welcomes proposals from higher education leaders eager to share valuable insights, experiences, research, and advice. Proposals involving students are highly encouraged, with discounted registration fees available for student presenters. Students who volunteer at least six hours during the conference may have their registration fee waived (limited slots available). Please contact events@wscuc.org for additional information.

Note: Proposals from vendors or individuals promoting products or services will not be reviewed through the standard process. Click here for sponsor opportunities.

How will the conference committee evaluate proposals?

WSCUC’s conference advisory committee will evaluate proposals based on:

  • Overall quality, focusing on clarity and tangible outcomes
  • Relevance and applicability to other institutions and situations
  • Alignment with selected topic
  • Appeal to conference attendees

Proposals that emphasize evidenced-based action, institutional mission, and student success are preferred. Priority is given to proposals from accredited institutions in good standing, as well as proposals that feature varied perspectives, such as students, institutional stakeholders, or members of the public.

When will I know if my proposal is selected?

WSCUC will notify prospective presenters between late December 2025 and January 2026.

What are the presenter’s responsibilities?

Presenters and co-presenters must register for the conference, pay the full registration fee, and arrange their own travel and lodging. All presenters and co-presenters must be present in person to deliver their session. There is no option for virtual or hybrid presentation at ARC2026.

Electronic materials should be submitted by March 20, 2026 if you would like them made available to attendees. WSCUC does not cover the cost of materials used during the session. Each meeting room will be equipped with a projector, screen, and internet access; presenters should bring their own laptops. Workshop sessions will have tables for attendees to collaborate in small groups. Additional logistical details will be provided to presenters as the conference date approaches.

If I submitted a proposal for ARC2025, can I submit a proposal for ARC2026?

Definitely! We look forward to reviewing your new proposal.

Are there other ways to contribute to ARC2026?

Yes! Whether or not you’re submitting a proposal, there are various ways to contribute:

  • Serve as a session moderator: Moderators introduce speakers, provide brief framing remarks, enforce time limits, and lead the Q&A.
  • Engage on social media: Share tips, insights and initiate discussions.
  • Propose your own idea: We value creativity and welcome unique ways to contribute.

Please indicate ways you you’d like to contribute in the proposal form.

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