Architects of the Modern Student Journey
October 26 - 28, 2026 | Orlando, FL
CONNECTED26 is the leading student success and strategy conference focused on the full student journey, from enrollment to advancement.
CONNECTED26 will convene more than 1,000 institutional leaders and practitioners to focus on what truly matters—and what’s coming next—in higher education. Join your peers, EAB experts, and guest speakers to explore how institutions are using data, technology, and best practices to improve outcomes across the student journey.
At CONNECTED26, you’ll engage with innovative ideas, real-world examples, and hands-on experiences designed to help you move from idea to action. Whether you’re new to EAB technology or a long-time partner, CONNECTED26 offers focused opportunities to learn, connect, and apply proven solutions to your institutional challenges.
Meet Our Keynote Speaker
Duncan Wardle
As the former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney, Duncan helped Imagineering, Lucas Film, Marvel, Pixar, and Disney Parks to create magical new storylines and experiences for consumers around the globe. Join us as Duncan brings his extensive Disney experience and unique approach to Design Thinking to CONNECTED26, teaching attendees how they can embed a culture of innovation and creativity into their campuses’ DNA.
Join EAB at CONNECTED to...
Learn
Learn from campus leaders and EAB experts who are applying technology, analytics, and strategy to higher education’s most pressing challenges
Engage
Engage in role-specific programming designed to support both day-to-day execution and strategic decision-making
Connect
Connect with an expansive community of peers to exchange ideas on student success, institutional strategy, AI, and the future of higher education
Why Your Peers Chose CONNECTED
Higher education leaders have no shortage of conferences to choose from. CONNECTED26 is intentionally different.
Unlike events that focus on a single function or technology, CONNECTED is designed for leaders responsible for outcomes across the entire student journey. The conference brings together executives and implementation leaders to work through the strategic questions that cut across enrollment, advising, student success, advancement, and institutional decision-making.
What did your peers find most useful about attending CONNECTED?
- “All of it, literally! Super, SUPER well organized content and well-prepared presenters.”
- “Grateful for the opportunity to connect with likeminded strategy leaders at similar institutions. I look forward to sharing with the group how we are using EAB technology to problem-solve and envision future possibilities.”
- “Getting the time to speak with institutions similar to mine was really eye opening and thought provoking for brainstorming solutions."
Need help making your case for attending? Download our justification letter template below.
The Venue
Orlando World Center Marriott
We are excited to return to the Orlando World Center Marriott, one of our highest-rated CONNECTED venues, for a conference experience designed to support learning, collaboration, and connection.
The resort offers expansive meeting space, exceptional service, and a wide range of on-site amenities, including multiple dining options, a full-service spa, championship golf course, and outdoor gathering spaces. Its centralized campus allows CONNECTED26 to deliver a seamless experience while giving attendees flexibility to recharge and connect outside of sessions.
