NACE26 Call for Proposals

Presenting at NACE26 is a win‑win‑win!

1


Contribute your hard-earned insights to support others in our professional community facing similar challenges.

2


Expand your professional network and reputation by connecting with fellow leaders in the field.

3


Enjoy cost savings via a conference registration discount—a little perk for your valuable contribution!


Two Conferences, Two Unique Programs, One Submission Process

NACE26 Denver

Dates: June 9–11, 2026
Location: Colorado Convention Center, Denver, CO

NACE26 Virtual

Dates: June 24–25, 2026
Location: Virtual

Call for Proposals: Key Dates

  • Open Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
  • Close Date: Friday, October 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET
  • Notification Date: December 2025

Visit naceweb.org/nace26 often for exciting news and updates. Attendee registration is coming soon.

The 2026 Conference Planning Committee is seeking proposals that:

  • Ignite energy and foster active engagement among session participants.
  • Showcase real-life achievements and practical applications with successful outcomes.
  • Champion inclusion and belonging by highlighting leading practices that embrace all perspectives.
  • Exhibit a deep understanding of the profession and uncover insights into emerging trends.
  • Stir inspiration and fuel discussions centered around student achievement and the early career journey.


Proposal GUIDELINES     Submit a Proposal


 

Special Consideration Topics for NACE26

Hot Topics

  • Practical application of AI in recruiting and career services
  • Infusing career competencies and skills into the curriculum, internship programs, and early talent recruiting
  • Integrating campus wide career readiness initiatives
  • Successful employer/college partnerships and outcome advancements
  • Internship and experiential education best practices
  • Innovative strategies and tactics that promote inclusive excellence and talent pipeline development 

Executive Leadership Content

  • Strategies for implementing skills-based hiring strategies and practices
  • Strategic positioning of and critical issues impacting early talent recruiting
  • Strategic positioning of and critical issues impacting career services

HBCU-centered content

  • Examples of successful employer/HBCU partnerships. Include data, outcomes, and impact of the partnership(s) in your proposal and presentation. Consider including examples that help HBCUs connect their students with career opportunities; help employers connect with HBCU students.
  • Proposals will also be considered for NACE’s HBCU Summit.

Disability-centered content

  • Examples of successfully navigating the career space, providing resources, accessing resources, disclosing ability status, providing accommodations in the workplace, or advocating for people with disabilities.
  • Neurodiverse members are welcome and encouraged to submit. Disclosing is welcomed but not required.
  • Proposals will also be considered for the NACE’s Disability Signature Series.

 

NACE26 Educational Tracks

NOTE: Proposals for sessions that are sales-driven or promotional in nature will not be accepted. Presenters who use their session to promote a product or service may be prohibited from future speaking opportunities. If you are interested in showcasing your product or service, please contact us at [email protected] to explore sponsorship options.

Experiential Learning

This track explores the power of hands-on learning experiences—internships, classroom projects/simulations, work-study, co-ops, apprenticeships, and practicums. We’re seeking strategies and success stories from both employers and educators that highlight best practices and the long-term benefits of experiential learning. Note: Some sessions will be presented in the expo hall.

Executive Leadership

This track offers a unique opportunity for senior leaders to engage in thought-provoking discussions and sessions around strategic issues. These facilitated discussions are designed to inspire, challenge, and support executives in navigating the complexities of leadership within career services and early talent recruitment functions.   

Opportunity + Access

This track is all about cutting-edge practices, strategies, research, and insights that promote accessibility, inclusion, and belonging. Whether you’re a career services professional or working in talent acquisition, we encourage you to share how you’re making an impact and ensuring successful outcomes for all.  

Career Services Strategies

Designed for career services professionals, this track focuses on sharing the best practices, tools, and success stories from your institution’s career services.

Examples: career courses, first destination outcomes, employer relations, technology advancements, learner resource development, faculty relations, micro-credentials, experiential education innovations, increasing student engagement, and so much more. 

Early Career Talent Strategies

This track focuses on the art and science of early career recruiting. If you have success stories, innovative approaches, or practical tips on finding and hiring the best talent, we invite you to share your expertise with fellow professionals. 

Examples: company branding initiatives, headcount planning, technological advancements, curriculum integrations, on-boarding, school selection, and so much more.

Personal and Professional Development

This track is designed to focus on you! Whether you’re looking to develop new skills, strengthen your leadership abilities, or build your professional network, we invite you to share and learn through this track focused on personal and professional growth.   

Examples: Employee development and retention, well-being practices, ERG best practices, leadership skills, policy development, career trajectory, and more.

Preparing a Career-Ready Workforce

Preparing students for successful transitions into the workforce is a shared goal for both colleges and employers. This track dives into the best practices, challenges, and innovative solutions to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace readiness, with a focus on skills and competency development as well as other practices that improve outcomes and deliver a career-ready workforce.   

Questions?

Contact NACE Meetings & Events at [email protected], 610.625.1026.