Ontario Council for University Lifelong Learning (OCULL) Summit 2026
About this Event
Join colleagues from across Ontario for the OCULL Summit 2026, a dynamic, one-day gathering focused on the future of university continuing education and lifelong learning.
Hosted at Brock University’s Burlington Campus, this event brings together senior leaders, program developers, instructional designers, government officials, industry and professional staff to connect, share insights, and explore the evolving role of continuing education in a changing post-secondary landscape.
The summit will feature a keynote address from Steve Orsini, President of the Council of Ontario Universities, offering a timely overview of the state of higher education and the opportunities ahead for our sector. In addition to the keynote, interactive breakout sessions, organized by role, will provide space for focused discussion, problem-solving, and peer learning.
Throughout the day, there will be ample opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and build relationships with colleagues across institutions in Ontario.
Whether you are shaping strategy, designing programs, or supporting delivery, the OCULL Summit offers a valuable opportunity to reflect, collaborate, take action and move the sector forward together.
Secure your spot and be part of the conversation shaping lifelong learning in Ontario.
Early bird pricing ends September 14, 2026.
Hotel Accomodations
The Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel & Conference Centre is pleased to welcome guests attending the OCULL Summit 2026.
A preferred group rate of $140.00 per night (plus 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax and 13% HST) has been arranged for your stay. Guests may choose between:
- One Standard Guest Room with One King Bed
- One Standard Guest Room with Two Queen Beds
Located in the heart of Burlington, the Holiday Inn Burlington offers a convenient and comfortable stay with a variety of amenities designed to enhance your experience, including:
- Complimentary parking for overnight guests
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
- On-site dining at our Garden Grill Restaurant & Lounge, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options
- Indoor swimming pool and fitness centre
- Spacious guest rooms featuring comfortable bedding, work areas, and modern amenities
- Flexible meeting and event facilities located onsite
- Convenient access to major highways, shopping, restaurants, and local attractions
To Reserve by Phone
Please call our Reservations Team at 905-639-4443 and quote:
- Group Name: OCULL Summit
- Block Code: OCS
To Reserve Online
Guests may also reserve their accommodations using this dedicated booking link . The group rate will automatically be applied when booking through the link.
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Breakfast and Networking
🕑: 09:30 AM - 09:45 AM
Opening Remarks from Host Institution
Host: Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani
Info: Welcome from Brock Vice-Provost Teaching and Learning, Dr. Rajiv Jhangiani
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Building Ontario’s Future: Talent, Innovation and Lifelong Learning
Host: Steve Orsini
Info: President and CEO of the Council of Ontario Universities, Steve Orsini, will explore the critical role that universities play in driving talent, research, innovation and economic growth.
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Break
Info: Refreshments in exhibitor area
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Concurrent Breakout Streams
Info: Participants will select a concurrent breakout stream in which they will discuss current relevant topics related to their subject area. Breakout streams will include:
-Senior Leadership
-Program Development and Delivery
-Marketing and Strategic Enrolment
-Systems, Finance and Registration
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch and Networking
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:00 PM
Concurrent Session Debrief
Info: Opportunities to discuss concurrent breakout stream topics with the larger group. Notes taken for report to be distributed to all OCULL members.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 02:45 PM
Update from Ontario MCURES
Info: Areas of Focus for Ministry
Q&A for Ministry (time permitting)
🕑: 02:30 PM - 02:45 PM
Afternoon Break
Info: Refreshments in exhibitor area
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:45 PM
OCULL Panel: Connecting Campus and Community
Host: Ruth Walker Scott
Info: Panelists include:
Ruth Walker Scott, Senior Economic Development Officer, County of Simcoe;
Nicky Locker, Director of Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning, Lakehead University;
Dr. Rebecca Heffernan, Director, Economic Development & Research Support Orillia, Lakehead University;
Moderator: Juan Mavo-Navarro
🕑: 03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
Closing Remarks from OCULL President
Host: Juan Mavo-Navarro
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 190.00 to CAD 205.00
