2026 SLCE Conference at American University in Washington D.C., Saturday, October 17, 2026

The Vision
The Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (SLCE) Conference seeks to cultivate a thriving network of students, faculty, staff, and community partners who work together to advance the public purposes of higher education through authentic, reciprocal community partnerships.

The Theme
Co-Creating Change: Collaborative Community Partnerships. The SLCE Conference highlights the efforts of institutions of higher learning and community organizations that work side by side to address complex social challenges, strengthen civic learning, and expand opportunities for meaningful engagement. By connecting best practices in service-learning, community engagement, and professional development, the conference elevates innovative approaches that deepen relationships between campuses and the communities they serve.

The Aim
The SLCE Conference is not just a moment of gathering; it is a catalyst for continued collaboration. Participants are encouraged to carry forward the conversations, partnerships, and ideas sparked at the conference by integrating them into their classrooms, campuses, organizations, and communities. Together, attendees and partners can continue co-creating change, expanding civic learning, and strengthening the partnerships that move communities and higher education forward.

The 2026 conference marks the second time American University (AU) has had the honor of hosting this gathering, the first being in 2014, and organizers are excited to bring back this cherished day-long, in-person event. A heartfelt thank you goes to Coppin State University for reigniting the momentum by hosting in 2025, and for reminding the region of the power and importance of this conference. Their leadership made this return possible.

Recognizing AU's longstanding commitment to fostering partnerships that generate meaningful societal impact and advancing knowledge for the public good, this gathering seeks to generate new ideas, strengthen collaboration, and amplify the collective work happening across the region.

Call for proposals is open until June 21,2026
Follow this link to the submission form or complete form below.