SEPSEA

Annual Conference

Southeast Post Secondary Education Alliance (SEPSEA)

Call For Proposals
2026 Conference

Belonging, Resilience, Justice: Strengthening Communities of Learning through Inclusive Postsecondary Education

May 20 – 22, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans

The mission of SEPSEA (Southeast Postsecondary Education Alliance) is to promote access to quality inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (including autism) in the southeast, through a shared focus on collaboration, program development, research, and public policy.
SEPSEA welcomes the submission of proposals for the 2026 conference; topical areas may include, but are not limited to:

  • Accessibility
  • Assistive Technology Supports
  • Campus & Community Life
  • Coaching & Training
  • Communication & Social Skills
  • Employment Skills & Training
  • General Curriculum Access
  • HBCU IPSE
  • IPSE Programming
  • Life Skills & Sexuality
  • Mental Health & Well-being
  • Partnerships with State Agencies
  • Peer Mentorship & Supports
  • Self-determination
  • Transition Across the Lifespan

Proposals may only be submitted online through Cvent’s Abstract Management system, through the link below. When in Abstract Management, click on “submit abstract”, then create an account.

Proposal Submission Deadline: November 15, 2025

For further information, please contact Cindy Perras, Conference Coordinator: at cindy.perras@gmail.com

Agenda 1

Wednesday, May 21

  • 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Registration
  • 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.  SEPSEA Board Meeting
  • 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Opening General Session 
  • 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Exhibits
  • 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Reception & Poster Presentations 
Agenda 2

Thursday, May 22

  • 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. SEPSEA Business Meeting/Think College Update & Breakfast
  • 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Registration & Exhibits 
  • 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Breakout Presentations
  • TBD SEPSEA Committee 
  • 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. –  Networking Luncheon 
  • 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.  Breakout Presentations Meeting Rooms
  • Late afternoon/evening Informal Networking Socials
Agenda 3

Friday, May 23

  • 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast
  • 7:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon Registration & Exhibits
  • 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon Breakout Presentations
  • 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. Lunch & Closing Remarks

Conference Highlights

01

Kick-off Keynote/State of the Nation from Think College

Gain valuable insights and updates on the state of inclusive postsecondary education from Think College, a prominent advocate for advancing opportunities in higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

02

Welcome Reception

Kickstart the conference with a warm welcome and explore a college fair featuring institutions committed to inclusive education. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with representatives and gather information about inclusive programs.

03

Meet and Greet

Enjoy hearing from a panel of current and alumni IPSE students and families to gain valuable insights from their perspectives.

04

Over 30 Breakout Sessions

Dive into an array of informative and engaging breakout sessions, each offering valuable insights, strategies, and best practices in the field of inclusive postsecondary education. Customize your conference experience by choosing from a diverse selection of topics.

05

In-Person Networking

Connect with professionals, educators, advocates, and individuals from all over the Southeast in a dynamic and interactive in-person networking environment. Share experiences, ideas, and foster collaborations that drive positive change in the field of inclusive education.

Additional Information

2026 Conference Details

  • Dates:  May 20 -22, 2026
  • Venue: New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Registration:  Opening Soon
  • Accommodations:  TBA
  • Contact: For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to contact us
  • Follow Us: Stay updated with conference news and announcements by following us on Facebook.
Additional Information

We look forward to welcoming you to the 2026 SEPSEA Conference

Where we will join forces to shape a more inclusive future for postsecondary education!

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