Division of Student Affairs to Host 2026 Innovation Summit

The U of A's Division of Student Affairs will host the 2026 Student Affairs Innovation Summit on Thursday, April 2, in the Arkansas Union Ballroom.

Designed as a morning of learning, collaboration and idea‑sharing, the Innovation Summit will bring together professional staff from across the division. While the event is built with student affairs professionals in mind, all campus community members are welcome to attend. Registration is available on HogSync at cglink.me/2uB/r400608.

The summit seeks to inspire participants to think boldly, work collaboratively and explore new ways to strengthen both the staff and student experience. It reflects the division's ongoing commitment to building a strong organizational culture while investing in professional development opportunities that support engagement, growth and career advancement. Recent employee engagement survey results affirm the importance of opportunities like this summit in fostering connection, collaboration and innovation.

"Innovation doesn't happen all at once," said Lori L. Lander, assistant vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and summit chair. "It grows through small shifts and the willingness to try something new. We hope the conversations and connections that emerge from this summit spark new ways of thinking and inspire teams to approach their work with creativity and intention."

The summit will kick off with a light continental breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by opening remarks at 8:30 a.m. Amelia Parnell, president of NASPA-Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, will deliver the keynote address.

Educational sessions begin at 10 a.m., followed by showcase presentations that highlight innovative programs currently underway across the division. An optional roundtable discussion and lunch will be offered from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for participants who register in advance. 

Attendees may select one educational session from a range of topics, including AI in student affairs, professional development planning, incorporating student voice into program and data-informed decision making. Each session is built with one outcome in mind: providing practical ideas participants can immediately put to use.

Showcase presentations will spotlight departmental initiatives making a tangible impact on students — from career readiness and civic engagement to mental health, adventure therapy, leadership development and recreation and wellness.

Roundtable discussions will explore topics such as innovative onboarding and offboarding, new ways to share information, student involvement in shaping systems and programs and optimizing environmental responsibility within the division.

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports the whole student by cultivating transformative experiences and environments that promote student well-being, sense of community and success. We prioritize student access, well-being and belonging, post-graduation success, and building a strong organizational culture.