Student Conference on Leadership
18th Annual Conference - February 7, 2026
Going for the Gold isn’t just about medals, it’s about mindset. This year’s conference challenges participants to ignite their passion, inspire others through action, and create lasting impact on their campuses and in their communities.
Join student leaders, advisors, and changemakers from across the region for a dynamic day of workshops, keynotes, and connection. Whether you’re striving to strengthen your organization, elevate your leadership skills, or make a difference beyond your campus, this year’s conference is your opportunity to go for your own version of gold.
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| February 7, 2026 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Martha T. Nesbitt Academic Building, Gainesville Campus |
Conference Overview
Free to all 天美社区 students!
Save the date for the University of North Georgia’s 18th Annual Student Conference on Leadership. The purpose of this conference is to give all students the chance to learn about leadership and grow as leaders all while meeting and networking with peers. You do not have to be heavily involved in student organizations to attend this conference – it is for all students to develop their leadership skills! This is only one day to learn with a lifetime to lead!
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Check-in and Breakfast |
| 9:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. | Welcome |
| 10 a.m.- 11:15 a.m. | Keynote Speaker |
| 11:25 a.m. - 11:55 a.m. | Breakout 1 (30 minutes) |
| noon - 1 p.m. | Lunch |
| 12:45 - 1 p.m. | Olympic Activities |
| 1 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. | Break |
| 1:15 p.m. - 2 p.m. | Breakout 2 (45 minutes) |
| 2:15 p.m. - 3 p.m. | Breakout 3 (45 minutes) |
| 3:20 p.m. | Closing |
Keynote Speaker
McKenzie Coan
We are honored to welcome McKenzie Coan, Paralympic gold medalist, author, and motivational speaker, as our 2026 keynote.
Diagnosed at just 19 days old with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), McKenzie was told she would never walk, sit upright, or live a long life. But McKenzie’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of possibility.
From her early days in aqua therapy to becoming a three-time Paralympic gold medalist, McKenzie’s journey is a testament to believing that no obstacle is too great to overcome. She embodies the spirit of this year’s theme, Ignite, Inspire, Impact, by proving that limits only exist if we let them.
Prepare to be moved, motivated, and reminded that the true gold lies in perseverance and purpose.
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Are you passionate about leadership, service, or student engagement? Do you have a message or experience that can inspire others?
We invite students, staff, alumni, and advisors to submit proposals to present breakout sessions at the 2026 Leadership & Engagement Conference! Breakout sessions are interactive, 30-60 minute workshops designed to help attendees develop practical skills, explore new ideas, and take their leadership to the next level.
Potential topics areas include:
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Ethics & Civility
- Self-Awareness
Proposal Deadline: November 21, 2025
Submit your proposal now. If you have any questions about presenting, please contact Kathryn Narciso.
Registration Dates:
- Opens: January 5, 2026
- Closes: February 6, 2026
Reserve your spot early to ensure access to all sessions, meals, and conference materials.