2026 Annual Conference
C. Charles Jackson Leadership Conference
Connecting Researchers, Practitioners, and Philanthropy for Better Leadership
About the Conference
Each year, the C. Charles Jackson Foundation brings together leadership educators to learn and exchange ideas. Through campus tours, shared grant outcomes, and rich peer-to-peer conversations, participants leave with fresh perspectives and concrete ways to strengthen their own centers, programs, and communities.
Come learn, share, and connect with peers who are shaping the future of leadership education.
Annual Event
Every August
Location: Minneapolis
Exact location varies by host
Leadership Community
Educators and practitioners
Advancing Leadership Education: From Practice to Impact
Key Topics Explored
Models for effective leadership centers and programs
Lessons learned from Foundation-supported grants, projects, and research
Integrating leadership into academic, co-curricular, and community experiences
Assessing leadership learning and demonstrating impact
Building institutional support, partnerships, and sustainable funding
Scaling leadership initiatives to serve more students, educators, and communities
WHO THIS IS FOR
Intended Audience
This conference is designed for those who lead, teach, and steward leadership work in their institutions.
Leadership Center and Program executives, directors, administrators, faculty, advancement officers, and pre- and post-secondary program leaders.
It's a good fit if you oversee a leadership center or program, manage leadership-focused grants or initiatives, or are responsible for integrating leadership development into the life of your campus or organization. Whether you are based in Minnesota or elsewhere in the United States, you'll join peers who are building and refining leadership centers, programs, projects, and research—and who are eager to share what they're learning and discover new approaches together.
PAST CONFERENCES
Conference Highlights
Sharing Best Practices
Connect with peers and exchange proven strategies for leadership development programs.
Touring Host Institutions
Experience firsthand how host institutions integrate leadership into campus life.
Meet Dr. Jackson & Learn About Grants
Engage directly with Foundation leadership and learn about funding opportunities.
Community Building
Build lasting relationships with fellow leadership educators and practitioners.
What Past Participants Say
"The conference provided invaluable insights and connections that have directly influenced our program development. The peer-to-peer learning was exceptional."
"The conference provided invaluable insights and connections that have directly influenced our program development. The peer-to-peer learning was exceptional."
"Meeting Dr. Jackson and learning about the Foundation's vision helped us understand how to better align our work with their funding priorities. A truly transformative experience."
Stay connected
Get Conference Updates
If you would like to be added to our list for future grant and/or event opportunities, sign up below.