The Gathering 2026: A Drive-In Experience for Student Affairs Professionals
About this Event
Join us for The Gathering
On behalf of the planning committee for The Gathering: A Drive-In Experience for Student Affairs Professionals, and the Legacy Group Online, we invite you and your Student Affairs colleagues to join us for this phenomenal experience, Thursday - Friday, April 15 - 16, 2027, at the Kansas State University Innovation Center in Olathe, Kansas.
Our Goal
The Gathering provides professional development, fellowship, and networking opportunities for new, intermediate, mid-level, and senior Student Affairs professionals across Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa. Through an interactive drive-in program format, participants will explore best practices and share strategies while connecting with colleagues and building tools to strengthen their professional portfolio.
The Gathering Competencies
- Mental Health & Wellness
- Salary & Promotion
- Work-Life Balance
- Lack of Support
- Inclusive Practices
Who Should Attend
This in-person experience is designed for Student Affairs professionals with focus areas including Conduct, Student Involvement, Auxiliary Services, and Academic Support programs.
Featured Speakers
- Dr. Amelia Parnell, President, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)
- Ms. Ellen Heffernan, CEO, Spelman Johnson Search
- Dr. Angela King-Taylor, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, University of Missouri
- Dr. Tammara Durham, Vice Provost of Student Affairs, The University of Kansas
- Dr. Thomas Lane, Vice President & Dean of Students, Kansas State University
- Dr. Toyia Younger, Senior Vice President of Student Affairs, Iowa State University
Schedule Highlights
Thursday, April 15
- 4:30 PM — Registration Begins (KSU Olathe Campus Lobby)
- 5:00 PM — Mix & Mingle Social & Dinner Experience (Great Plains Room & Patio)
Friday, April 16
- 8:30 AM — Registration
- 9:00 AM — Morning Welcome & Opening Session
- 10:15 AM — Morning Breakout Sessions
- 11:15 AM — Departmental Networking Sessions
- 12:15 PM — Luncheon & Remarks
- 1:30 PM — Afternoon Sessions
- 2:30 PM — Afternoon Networking Break
- 2:45 PM — Closing Panel: "The Future of Student Affairs"
- 3:45 PM — Closing Remarks
Registration Information
Registration is $100.00 per person and covers all costs associated with the experience. Please share this information with your Student Affairs department colleagues.
For Group Rates contact Robert Page at [email protected]
Hotel Information
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Olathe West by IHG
10360 South Ridgeview Road, Olathe, KS 66061
(16-minute drive from the KSU Olathe Campus)
Rate: $164.00 (king suites), $174.00 (double suites), before taxes.
[Reserve a room HERE]
Questions?
Contact Robert N. Page Jr. at [email protected]
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 136.85
