The Gathering 2026: A Drive-In Experience for Student Affairs Professionals

The Legacy Group brings you 2 days of professional development, fellowship & networking for Student Affairs pros across KS, MO, and IA. Join us for The Gathering On behalf of the planning committee for The Gathering: A Drive-In Experience for Student Affairs Professionals, and the Legacy Group Online, we invite you and your Student Affairs colleagues to join us for this phenomenal experience, Thursday - Friday, April 15 - 16, 2027, at the Kansas State University Innovation Center in Olathe, Kansas. Our Goal The Gathering provides professional development, fellowship, and networking opportunities for new, intermediate, mid-level, and senior Student Affairs professionals across Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa. Through an interactive drive-in program format, participants will explore best practices and share strategies while connecting with colleagues and building tools to strengthen their professional portfolio. The Gathering Competencies • Mental Health & Wellness • Salary & Promotion • Work-Life Balance • Lack of Support • Inclusive Practices Who Should Attend This in-person experience is designed for Student Affairs professionals with focus areas including Conduct, Student Involvement, Auxiliary Services, and Academic Support programs. Featured Speakers • Dr. Amelia Parnell, President, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) • Ms. Ellen Heffernan, CEO, Spelman Johnson Search • Dr. Angela King-Taylor, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, University of Missouri • Dr. Tammara Durham, Vice Provost of Student Affairs, The University of Kansas • Dr. Thomas Lane, Vice President & Dean of Students, Kansas State University • Dr. Toyia Younger, Senior Vice President of Student Affairs, Iowa State University Schedule Highlights Thursday, April 15 • 4:30 PM — Registration Begins (KSU Olathe Campus Lobby) • 5:00 PM — Mix & Mingle Social & Dinner Experience (Great Plains Room & Patio) Friday, April 16 • 8:30 AM — Registration • 9:00 AM — Morning Welcome & Opening Session • 10:15 AM — Morning Breakout Sessions • 11:15 AM — Departmental Networking Sessions • 12:15 PM — Luncheon & Remarks • 1:30 PM — Afternoon Sessions • 2:30 PM — Afternoon Networking Break • 2:45 PM — Closing Panel: "The Future of Student Affairs" • 3:45 PM — Closing Remarks Registration Information Registration is $100.00 per person and covers all costs associated with the experience. Please share this information with your Student Affairs department colleagues. For Group Rates contact Robert Page at [email protected] Hotel Information Holiday Inn Express & Suites Olathe West by IHG 10360 South Ridgeview Road, Olathe, KS 66061 (16-minute drive from the KSU Olathe Campus) Rate: $164.00 (king suites), $174.00 (double suites), before taxes. [Reserve a room HERE] Questions? Contact Robert N. Page Jr. at [email protected]