2026 CHEA/CIQG Annual Conference

The 2026 Council for Higher Education Annual Conference theme, Leading with Integrity in a Shifting Landscape -- Innovation, Accountability, and the Future of Accreditation, sets the stage for an insightful, innovative, and enriching experience for the global higher education accreditation community. This year's theme is intended to reflect the moment we are in---where higher education accreditation is facing both new pressures and new possibilities. By emphasizing "integrity," we will affirm the central role of values-based leadership in navigating regulatory change, rising expectations surrounding student outcomes, and discuss the ongoing debates over autonomy and innovation. "Leading with integrity" signals our commitment to: Upholding quality and academic standards amid external pressures; Using transparency and student success data not just for compliance, but for continuous improvement; Embracing innovation responsibly, without compromising rigor; And fostering ethical leadership and collaboration in a dynamic environment; The evolving role of accreditors in national and global regulatory environments; Accreditation's role in promoting equitable student outcomes. The CHEA Annual Conference is a premier event bringing together higher education leaders, accreditation professionals, policymakers, and industry partners to explore critical issues in quality assurance and accreditation. The conference serves as a platform for thought leadership, collaboration, and innovation, helping institutions navigate the evolving landscape of higher education. What to Expect: Engage with top experts on emerging trends in accreditation, institutional effectiveness, and quality assurance; Explore how technologies like AI, data analytics, and digital learning tools are reshaping higher education; Connect with decision-makers, accreditation agencies, and industry partners; Gain actionable insights to enhance institutional performance and student outcomes.