About
Checkout this learning outcomes and program description for this year's symposium!
Schedule
Check out some of the incredible breakout sessions and learning labs taking place at this year's symposium!
Call for Programs
We are looking for folks to submit proposals to present at this year's symposium!
Registration for the 2026 UL Student Success Symposium will open in early April.
The University Life Student Success Symposium is the division’s annual signature professional development experience. The symposium provides an opportunity to connect with colleagues and engage in topics integral to our work, evolving our professional practices. Through commitment to the UL collaborative community, we learn more about the impact of our colleagues’ contributions as we strive for student success.
The 2026 UL Symposium invites us to center ourselves to reflect and prepare for the challenges and successes of the academic year ahead. The Symposium will provide us with a myriad of interactive and engaging experiences, grounded in the UL Core Values. The UL Student Success Symposium will amplify the new and continued work of George Mason student affairs professionals in the ever-changing and evolutionary nature of higher education.
Through participation in the 2026 University Life Student Success Symposium, attendees will:
- Explore strategies to foster student engagement, enhance student learning, and promote a strong sense of belonging
- Identify practices that have a positive impact on student success, access and transition, retention, health and well-being, and post-graduation success
- Identify practices that demonstrate high levels of care, service, and support for students and their families
- Recognize strategies to enhance personal and professional well-being within the field of higher education
The 2026 UL Symposium is an opportunity for you to enhance your workplace well-being through:
- Engaging with colleagues as we connect with the UL Core Values
- Participating in career and leadership development experiences
- Learning about innovative practices and technology to enhance and support your work
- Discussing current trends in higher education in Virginia and beyond
We will be using the University Life Core Values for the Call for Programs. Presenters will be asked to pick a primary value and secondary (not required to have a secondary value) to link to their presentation material. Presenters may not select more than 2 values.
TOGETHER, we achieve our mission through an unwavering commitment to our values:
Inclusion and Opportunities: We are committed to cultivating an environment of engagement, connection, and belonging that is respectful and fair for everyone.
Leadership for Positive Change: We are committed to cultivating leaders who critically examine and understand the potential impact of their decisions and act ethically.
Well-Being: We are committed to cultivating an environment of understanding and fulfillment of both individual and community well-being that promotes purpose, vitality, engagement, and resilience.
Collaborative Community: We are committed to cultivating a supportive network of colleagues that share ideas, learn and create together, and develop authentic connections.
Strategic Transformation: We are committed to dynamic action in creating meaningful solutions to anticipate and meet the needs of an ever-changing community.