HBCU Summit
July 20, 2026
Preceding Encoura + RNL National Conference
Advancing Strategy. Elevating Impact. Centering Students.
Join us for this pre-conference event to interact with fellow HBCU colleagues and enrollment experts. During our day together, you'll hear key strategies for HBCUs, including:
• Marketing and recruitment strategies to reach your enrollment goals
• Student success strategies to increase completion rates
• Trends that are impacting the HBCU sector
You'll also have time to interact and network with fellow attendees, including campus leaders. Seating is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
The HBCU Summit is complimentary with your registration for the Encoura + RNL National Conference
The HBCU Summit will take place before the 2026 Encoura + RNL National Conference (July 21-23). Registration is complimentary with your registration for the National Conference, which features more than 100 sessions on campus marketing, student recruitment, student success, and more.
Summit Registration
The HBCU Summit is free with your National Conference registration. Simply select the HBCU Summit when registering.
Bring a team to spark discussion and create momentum for implementing new strategies.
Summit Location
Marriott Marquis Chicago
2121 S Prairie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60616
Encoura Special Rate: $269/night
Rate available until June 29. Rooms may sell out sooner — please make your hotel reservations early.
Attend the National Conference
The 2026 Encoura + RNL National Conference follows the HBCU Summit on July 21-23. Choose from more than 100 sessions on:
- Undergraduate marketing and recruitment
- Graduate enrollment
- Student success
- Strategic planning
- Analytics and technology
Agenda overview
(Agenda subject to change)
Monday, July 20
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 9:30-10:00 a.m. | Registration and Check-In
Arrival and networking. |
| 10:00-10:15 a.m. | Welcome and Introductions
Opening remarks and framing the day. |
| 10:15-11:00 a.m. | Built to Lead: The Next Era of HBCU Excellence
Hear a leadership panel exploring the future, influence, and continued rise of HBCUs. |
| 11:10 a.m.-12:00 p.m. | Workshop:
Staying the Course
Engage with presenters and fellow attendees about advancing enrollment and revenue goals during senior leadership transitions. |
| 12:00-1:15 p.m. | Networking Lunch
During lunch, we facilitate intentional connection and cross-institution collaboration |
| 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Seen, Heard, and Home
Explore how to use strategic communication to strengthen belonging at HBCUs. |
| 2:45-3:45 p.m. | Student Success Reimagined: From Access to Outcomes
See how to move beyond access to drive measurable student success. |
| 4:00-5:00 p.m. | The Collective Commitment: From Insight to Action
Conclude with a facilitated closing experience focused on translating ideas into actionable next steps and shared commitments. |
Register now for the HBCU Summit and the National Conference