2026 Student Life Professional Development Conference View Other Sessions

Join us for the 2026 Student Life Professional Development Conference - Anchored in Purpose: Evolving Work, Steadfast Mission! This conference is dedicated to recentering ourselves in the midst of increasing change in complexity at work, enabling future opportunities for us and our students, growing our community to meet the ever evolving needs of higher education, and expanding our reach to ensure maximum impact. Participants will engage in dynamic discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at creating a resilient, equitable, and inclusive future.

Our Pre-Conference (Monday, January 26, 2026) includes half or full day Sessions and Workshops. The Conference Day (Tuesday, January 27, 2026) includes 50 Minute Breakout Sessions, Lunch, and 75 Minute Extended Sessions in the afternoon.

This year's conference encompasses four focus areas:

  • Strengthening Our Roots: Professional skill building (core skills, best practices)

  • Growing Our Community: Networking, collaboration, and building inclusive spaces

  • Anchored in Purpose: Leadership, mission-driven work, and ethical decision making

  • Expanding Our Reach: Innovative approaches, emerging student needs, and new programs

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: January 9, 2026.

There is a $25 charge for Student Life staff and graduate students to attend the conference and a $50 charge for non Student Life staff per day.



Dialogue: What is it and how do I do it?

Available Seats 55
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Michigan League, Henderson Room
Meaghan Wheat - The Program on Intergroup Relations, Deborah Slosberg - The Program on Intergroup Relations, Vibha Shivakumar - The Program on Intergroup Relations

In this session, participants will learn what dialogue is, learn some basic dialogic skills, and have the opportunity to apply these skills. We will explore dialogue both generally and the more specific power-conscious dialogue that the Program on Intergroup Relations and Intergroup Dialogue does. In addition, we’ll explore what dialogue is not. You will receive an overview of concrete dialogic skills, be given the opportunity to practice these skills through small groups within the session, and take handouts home with you so you can continue to practice these skills in the future. In addition to learning about dialogue skills you will have the opportunity to consider how you might bring dialogic skills into your practice, including information about how you can partner with The Program on Intergroup Relations in the future.  

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