Indiana University is pleased to host the IDEAL Conference from March 27-29, 2025, at the Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis, Indiana. The event, now in its second year, offers an affordable and accessible professional development experience.
"The IDEAL Conference reflects IU’s commitment to fostering critical dialogue and professional growth. By bringing together hundreds of professionals from education, nonprofits, and the corporate sector, this event creates a collaborative space for participants to experience unique learning opportunities and leadership development,” says Indiana University’s Rashad Nelms.
The three-day conference is expected to host hundreds of participants, with discussions and discourse to take place in a wide range of areas:
Higher Education Experience
For professionals in secondary and postsecondary education, affiliated organizations, and nonprofits, this experience explores themes such as teaching and learning, recruitment, retention, development and belonging, and organizational leadership.
In addition to keynote speakers and networking opportunities, attendees will have access to an Equip Inclusive pre-conference and concurrent session experience. Attendees will receive full access to the comprehensive content portfolio for one month at no charge. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate from Equip Inclusive.
IDEAL Executive Leadership Institute
Described as a transformative experience focused on leadership development for executives and emerging leaders across industries, the leadership institute is designed to help participants refine leadership skills, gain career development insights, and learn best practices.
Over the course of three days, the institute's schedule is:
Day 1: Building the Foundation: Leadership Essentials
- Leadership Begins With Me
- Legacy Leadership
- Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
Day 2: Strengthening Skills: Strategic Thinking & Influence
- Leveraging Influence and Negotiation Techniques
- Developing a Strategic Mindset
- Developing Executive Presence
Day 3: The Power of the Pivot: Career Development and Preparation
- The Power of the Pivot
- Career Boost: Resume Revamp, Interview Insights
- Professional Headshots
Monica Johnson, associate vice president for Indiana University, emphasizes the impact of the conference on leadership and professional growth: “The IDEAL Conference is not just about discussion – it’s about action. We are bringing together dynamic leaders who are committed to creating lasting change in their fields. This is an opportunity to gain new perspectives, build meaningful connections and leave with the tools to drive real impact.”
Keynote Speakers
Day One Keynote Speaker
Laurie A. Schreiner, Ph.D., Professor of Higher Education, Azusa University
A leading researcher on student success and thriving campuses, Laurie Schreiner has dedicated her career to fostering meaningful engagement and well-being in higher education. Her work has influenced more than 300 universities worldwide, and her research on the “Thriving Quotient” is shaping strategies for student, faculty, and staff success.
Day Two Keynote Speakers
Amber Johnson Avery, Ph.D., CEO of NextGenEDU, Founder of The Kidult Life
A tech entrepreneur and trailblazer, Amber Johnson Avery made history as the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in computer science from Purdue University. As the CEO of NextGenEDU and founder of The Kidult Life, she is shaping the future of education and technology, empowering the generation of innovators.
Nashlie Sephus, Ph.D., Principal AI/ML Evangelist for Amazon AI
A leader in artificial intelligence fairness and innovation, Nashlie Sephus has made an impact in the tech industry—from her startup’s acquisition by Amazon to her work addressing bias in AI. She is also the founder of The Bean Path and developer of the Jackson Tech District, using tech to drive community change.
Day Three Keynote Speaker
Michael J. Sorrell, Ph.D., Visionary Leader, Institutional Charge Agent, President of Paul Quinn College
Michael Sorrell is credited with transforming Paul Quinn College into a model for innovation in higher education and a learning environment that better serves the needs of today’s students and their communities. His “WE Over Me” approach has garnered national recognition, proving the power and potential of purpose-driven leadership.
Register Today
Registration for the IDEAL Conference closes on March 21, 2025! Space is limited.
Conference registration includes a pre-conference institute, nationally recognized keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and a welcome and closing reception. Register today for the IDEAL Conference.