2026 fye drive-in conference

Date: Friday, March 6, 2026

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Location: Weber State University, Ogden, UT

Cost: $40 per registrant  

The 2026 Utah FYE Consortium Conference invites faculty and staff to explore innovative strategies for fostering meaningful engagement, belonging, and well-being for both students and professionals in the evolving landscape of higher education.

As our institutions face new challenges—from legislative changes and emerging technologies to the distinct needs of Gen Z and Gen Alpha students—this conference provides a crucial space to share and develop effective, human-centered approaches with particular interest in the following focus areas:

• Student Engagement & Persistence: Strategies to increase student attention, participation, and connection  to programs, leading to improved first-to-second-year retention and  persistence.
• Well-being and Support: Addressing  the critical areas of mental health and neurodivergence for students and  staff, and promoting a holistic sense of well-being across campus.
• Constructive Dialogue and Community: Methods for creating campus cultures that embrace robust dialogue,  constructive conflict resolution, and help students communicate  effectively through differences.
• Cross-Campus Collaboration: Breaking down institutional silos to facilitate a more cohesive and impactful First-Year Experience (FYE).
• Navigating Emerging Tools: Examining the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in curriculum and  student affairs, including ethical usage, data collection, and balancing  digital tools with the essential need for human connection and support.

Join us to share successful program models, problem-solve contemporary  issues, and find collective solutions to strengthen the First-Year Experience at institutions across Utah.