ConnectEd Conference

ConnectEd is the education conference hosted by the Teaching, Learning, and Education Program (TLEP) at Northwestern University. This annual event is intentionally designed to bring together prospective students, current students, alumni, faculty, and staff to engage with important issues in teaching and learning while building meaningful connections with fellow educators. Our conference name represents a key idea in our program—teaching and learning occur through meaningful connection. We seek to foster deep and sustained connections among everyone who is part of our program while also thinking intentionally about how we connect to disciplinary ideas, understandings, and ways of knowing. The workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions provide inspiration, practical strategies, and opportunities for reflection. ConnectEd is not just an educational conference; it is a community of educators who share a commitment to transformative education.

This year, the theme of the conference is "Crossing borders to humanize learning spaces."

What do previous attendees say about ConnectEd?

"I hope there are many more ConnectEd conferences. It was a great opportunity to learn and connect with other colleagues."
"The presenters were awesome! There were many topics to learn from."
"Staff are all so helpful and friendly and really set the tone for a collaborative ConnectEd conference."

Event Details

Date: Friday, October 16, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Address: Norris University Center, 1999 Campus Dr, Evanston, IL 60208

Cost: Free! Lunch is included.

Event Schedule: A detailed event schedule will be added when finalized.

Who can Attend ConnectEd?

Two prospective graduate students chat at a roundtable during a campus visit at Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy, reviewing program materials.

Prospective Students

A workshop is planned specifically for you as a prospective student to learn about the program, experience our approach to teaching/learning, and connect with faculty, staff, and current students. This workshop will include time to explore our beautiful campus. During lunch, you can join a table hosted by your interests or form your own group. The conference features a variety of session topics to choose from as you continue to connect with program faculty, staff, alumni, and partners.

Current graduate students at Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy engage in discussion during an academic event, seated in a bright classroom setting.

Current Students

ConnectEd is integrated into our program experience for current students. The conference offers you a great opportunity to connect with faculty, alumni, and classmates as you tailor your program experience and prepare for the future.

Three Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy graduates in purple caps and gowns smile together on commencement day with Lake Michigan in the background.

Alumni

We are excited to welcome you home for the ConnectEd conference. You are invited to participate as attendees to continue your professional learning, sustain yourself through meaningful experiences, and engage with like-minded educators. We also welcome alumni presentation proposals; ConnectEd is a great opportunity for you to share your expertise and experience.

A woman stands smiling at the front of a group discussion while several seated participants raise their hands. The setting suggests an interactive workshop or professional learning session.

Mentors

We offer a half-day workshop for our current mentor teachers to support their work during the Fall Practicum and Winter Student Teaching. Then, mentors can also select from our menu of afternoon sessions.