October 29, 2025 | 9:15 -10:30 AM (Minneapolis Renaissance Hotel, The Depot)

This plenary will examine innovative approaches to the future of global education, looking beyond the challenges of today. Participants will be invited to think beyond traditional approaches and consider forward-looking strategies that expand access and help ensure the long-term relevance of global education. Panelists will reflect on what global disruptions, from the COVID-19 pandemic to national policy changes, can teach us about resilience, the challenges ahead, and ways to shape a better future for global student success.

Discussion will explore how strategic partnerships, technology, and equity-centered governance can transform international engagement, whether through study abroad, inbound mobility, collaborative online learning, or global-at-home programs, and build systems resilient to future disruption shocks. Participants will be challenged to move past reactive fixes and consider long-term visions that keep access, relevance, and sustainability at the core of global education’s next chapter.

October 30, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Minneapolis Renaissance Hotel, The Depot)

As the financial model underpinning higher education undergoes seismic shifts, the future of access is uncertain for underserved students. This live debate gathers seasoned stewards of traditional aid and bold architects of emerging ideas to confront a single question: How can global learning remain within reach when the old playbook no longer works?

Panelists will discuss the full spectrum of international engagement, while challenging the notion that global experience is a luxury. In a moment where financial policies are redefining who higher education serves—and how—this session will surface strategies to rebuild a more equitable and inclusive funding model that keeps global learning and access at the center.

October 31, 2025 | 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM (Minneapolis Renaissance Hotel, The Depot)

At a time of rising polarization, eroding civic trust, and growing societal fragmentation, education continues to have a critical role to play in preparing students to engage meaningfully with their communities, both locally and globally. This closing plenary will explore how global learning experiences, inclusive mobility, and cross-border partnerships can serve as catalysts for stronger civic engagement and more resilient civil societies.

Panelists will discuss how international education can cultivate the skills, empathy, and critical perspectives students need to contribute to a more connected and collaborative world. As we conclude the conference, this session will invite participants to reflect on how their work can reinforce higher education’s role in advancing the public good through global understanding, ethical leadership, and sustained community engagement.

October 8, 2025 | 10:00 -11:15 AM (Virtual)

As higher education grapples with shifting political landscapes, increased scrutiny of its value, and deepening inequities in access, global education must continue to adapt and shift to address today’s challenges as well as future opportunities. Looking ahead to the needs of the next generation, our panel will not only discuss the impact of today’s landscape but also share forward-thinking strategies and guiding principles that can strengthen our collective impact.

This discussion will lay the groundwork for deeper discussion throughout the rest of the conference and invite participants to consider how our collective efforts can remain relevant, inclusive, and forward-thinking in an increasingly complex world.

October 9, 2025 | 10:00 – 11:15 AM (Virtual)

From AI and immersive learning to predictive analytics and digital exchange, emerging technologies are reshaping the landscape of global education. This session will explore how tech-driven innovations are opening new pathways for access, engagement, and global learning—both inside and beyond the classroom.

Panelists will share insights on the opportunities and ethical considerations of integrating new technologies into international education, and how these tools can support future-ready models that inclusive and scale impact. As we look toward 2030 and beyond, this discussion will highlight how institutions can leverage technology not just to keep pace, but to lead in shaping the next era of global learning.