About the Annual Conference

The Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) Annual Conference is a premier gathering of scholars dedicated to advancing research in higher education. Held each November, the conference features research presentations and symposia discussions that address critical issues impacting colleges and universities. ASHE fosters a collaborative environment where participants exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and engage in professional development. The conference also highlights diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values, offering spaces for networking and mentoring. It serves as a vital platform for shaping the future of higher education scholarship and practice.

The 51st Annual Conference will take place in person in San Juan, Puerto Rico from Tuesday, November 3-Friday, November 6, 2026 and will include:

• Pre-Conferences on Tuesday, November 3 (additional registration is required for each Pre-Conference). Pre-Conference offerings include:
  • Council for the Advancement of Higher Education Programs (CAHEP) Pre-Conference Forum
  • Council on Athletics in Higher Education (CAHE) Pre-Conference Forum
  • Council for Ethnic Participation (CEP) Pre-Conference Forum
  • Council on International Higher Education (CIHE) Pre-Conference Forum
  • Council on Public Policy in Higher Education (CPPHE) Pre-Conference Forum
• 200+ Research and Scholarly Sessions 
• Two Keynotes (to be announced in Summer 2026)
• 11 Presidential Sessions (to be announced in early Fall 2026)  
• Barbara Townsend Lecture
• Bobby Wright Dissertation of the Year Presentation
• ASHE Presidential Address by 2026 ASHE President Robin Zape-tah-hol-ah Minthorn 
• Recognition and celebration of ASHE Awards recipients (nominations open in early May)
• A Graduate Student Luncheon connecting current graduate students
• Evening Networking Receptions hosted by Institutions and Organizations
• ASHE Community Meeting and Closing Session
• 17th Annual ASHE Dash (separate registration required; register by October 1 to receive a t-shirt)
• And more! The 2026 Conference Committee is hard at work to make this another meaningful conference experience!

The Virtual Conference Day will take place via Zoom on Thursday, October 22:

For the fourth year, we will offer a Virtual Conference Day on Thursday, October 22, 2026. All proposal formats (except Posters) across all General Conference Sections can be considered for the Virtual Day.

Registration for the Virtual Conference Day is included for all In-Person Conference and Pre-Conference registrants.