The 2018 HLC Annual Conference will highlight Innovation and Transformation, addressing major changes in higher education brought on by new technologies, credentials, providers and public policy priorities. HLC invites presentation proposals exploring how institutions can embrace the opportunities presented by transformative change, and how accreditation can facilitate this evolution while continuing to assure quality and promote student success.

Proposals are invited for the General Program and the Accreditation Workshop, which includes electives on the Standard, AQIP and Open Pathways. Preference will be given to proposals with presenters from two or more institutions discussing similar programs and practices.

How to Submit

Before beginning your submission, review the Proposal Submission Guide for information about presentation formats, suggested presentation topics, conference logistics and more.

Submit your proposal using the online Proposal Submission System.

Don’t delay–proposals are due September 8, 2017.

Suggested Topic Areas

• Transforming accreditation processes and policies into meaningful practice
• Facilitating institutional planning and improvement
• Harnessing new and changing technology
• Teaching and learning in the 21st century
• Promoting student success

New this year: HLC asks those submitting proposals to consider how the proposed topic corresponds to HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. To help attendees make the connection between improvement efforts and accreditation processes, submitters will be asked to select a Criterion that the proposal most closely supports.

Please note: Proposals that feature tools, products or services available for purchase by colleges and universities are not appropriate for this proposal process. They may be submitted as exhibitor showcase presentations (for more information, visit the HLC website in fall 2017).

Presentation Formats

When submitting a proposal, choose at least one of the following presentation formats:

• Informational Presentation (60 minutes): A presentation on a recent institutional experience related to an accreditation process, regulatory complexity or improvement initiative that provides the audience with applicable takeaways and advice.
• Panel Presentation (60 minutes): A presentation by two to three presenters, each offering a different perspective on a single topic or collaboration/partnership. At the conclusion of the presentation, the audience is given an opportunity to ask questions of the entire panel.
• Interactive Seminar (90 minutes): A session in which a presenter or facilitator shares observations or experiences on a subject and leads participants in dialogue and active learning.