The IHE US Universities & Colleges Summit 2026 brought together Presidents, Provosts and senior institutional leaders to explore how universities can navigate disruption while strengthening their long-term impact.

This invitation-only summit took place in New York City on October 19–20, 2026 and examined how the US higher education landscape is evolving in response to political, economic and technological upheavals – and what this means for institutional strategy, leadership and resilience.

From funding pressures and public trust to AI adoption and workforce alignment, discussions focused on how leaders can respond to complexity with clarity – shaping institutions that are adaptive, innovative and future-ready.

Rethinking higher education: Innovation for sustainability and restoring public trust

Sessions will explore:

• Restoring public trust in higher education
• Building financial resilience for your institution and exploring private funding opportunities
• Innovative enrollment strategies to modernize higher education

Leading with confidence: Governance, partnerships and institutional autonomy

Sessions will explore:

• Strengthening board-President relationships and institutional governance
• Navigating political pressures while remaining true to mission and values
• Leading institutions through uncertainty with resilience and purpose

The next chapter: Academic freedom, AI and the future of institutional leadership

Sessions will explore:

• What it means to be an AI-informed leader
• Protecting academic freedom and institutional independence in a changing political landscape
• Rethinking research, faculty development and academic careers
• Modernizing higher education to meet the needs of future learners and society

 Explore the themes  View full agenda

Engage directly with the most senior leaders in US higher education

Join a highly curated gathering where 75% of attendees are at the President, Chancellor or Provost level, creating an unparalleled environment for meaningful, peer-to-peer exchange.

Gain strategic insight at a critical moment for the sector

Explore how institutions are responding to shifting policies, funding pressures and technological disruptions, with practical takeaways to inform your own institutional strategy.

Take part in candid, closed-door discussions

Participate in roundtables designed to encourage open dialogue, collaborative problem-solving and the sharing of real-world challenges and solutions.

Build high-value connections that extend beyond the event

Develop relationships with senior decision-makers from across the US, strengthening your network and opening the door to future collaboration.