"Continuing Higher Education: Bridges to Empathy, Empowerment, and Innovation”

Submission Deadline: May 2, 2025 at 4 pm EST

The Association for Continuing Higher Education (ACHE) invites scholars, practitioners, and thought leaders to submit proposals for the 2025 ACHE Annual Conference, Oct. 13-15 in Milwaukee, WI. ACHE remains dedicated to exploring the transformative role of continuing higher education. This year’s theme, Continuing Higher Education: Bridges to Empathy, Empowerment, and Innovation, underscores the importance of fostering forward-thinking learning environments that bridge gaps between communities, industries, and institutions.

Conference Theme and Focus Areas

The 2025 ACHE Annual Conference will examine how continuing higher education serves as a bridge to:

· Empathy: How can institutions cultivate an empathetic approach to education that recognizes and addresses student needs, including non-traditional learners, underserved populations, and lifelong learners? How can institutions promote understanding, compassion, and cultural competency among learners and communities?

· Empowerment: What strategies enhance learner success, workforce development, and community engagement? How can continuing higher education empower individuals and communities through equitable access to education?

· Innovation: How can institutions leverage emerging technologies, pedagogical advancements, and new program models to create more dynamic, accessible, and effective learning experiences?

Potential Session Topics:

· Student Success/Access and Support

· Credit for Prior Learning

· Program Development

· Faculty Development

· Leadership

· Marketing and Business Development

· Teaching and Learning

· Technology and Digital Innovation

· Workplace Readiness

· Partnerships

We welcome proposals that reflect continuing higher education research, best practices, case studies, and innovative ideas that empower learners, build bridges, and transform lives. Available sessions this year include:

45-minute Concurrent Sessions – Take a deeper dive with a 45-minute presentation, which allows you to delve into your subject matter, engage the audience, and leave a lasting impression. From thought-provoking discussions to practical demonstrations, your presentation should offer valuable insights, actionable takeaways, and plenty of opportunities for interaction.

30-minute Concurrent Sessions - Take center stage with a 30-minute presentation, which allows you to delve into your subject matter, engage the audience, and leave a lasting impression. From thought-provoking discussions to practical demonstrations, your presentation should offer valuable insights, actionable takeaways, and plenty of opportunities for interaction.

30-minute Round Table discussions – Moderate a round table discussion on a topic related to the conference theme. This option allows for deep conversations and take-aways and does not require a full presentation.

Proposal Format/Submission

**Important Dates:**

· Proposal Submission Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2025

· Notification of Acceptance: Monday, May 23, 2025

· Conference Date: October 13-15, 2025

Proposals should be submitted via the Proposal Space platform by May 2, 2025 at 4pm EST. Those submitting proposals will be notified of acceptance by May 23, 2025. All presenters are required to register for the conference if selected.