2026 CHEA/CIQG Annual Conference | Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Event Date

January 26, 2026 - January 29, 2026

The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) announces
the 2026 Annual Conference

Leading with Integrity in a Shifting Landscape
Innovation, Accountability, and the Future of Accreditation
January 26-29, 2026
Washington, D.C.

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 Council for Higher Education Accreditation invites you to respond to the Annual Conference's Call for Proposals. We encourage you to submit your proposal by September 15, 2025, to allow ample time for review and planning. Should you have any questions regarding the Conference, don't hesitate to contact Joel Espinoza at [email protected].

More details regarding CHEA Conference registration will soon be provided. Look forward to seeing you in D.C.!

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