Kentucky Postsecondary Education Trusteeship Conference
September 28-29, 2026 | Owensboro Convention Center
The landscape of work is fundamentally changing, demanding a workforce that is not only technically skilled but also remarkably adaptable. Join us for the 2026 Postsecondary Education Trusteeship Conference in September, where we will examine the critical intersection of higher education and economic vitality. As the Commonwealth navigates the complexities of a global talent economy, the role of postsecondary institutions as engines of community and workforce development has never been more vital.
We are proud to feature Jamie Merisotis, President and CEO of Lumina Foundation, as our keynote speaker. A leading authority on the future of work, Merisotis will discuss how higher education must evolve to meet the needs of the "human work" era, prioritizing the development of human capital as the primary driver of shared prosperity. His insights will challenge us to rethink how our institutions serve as the backbone of regional stability and statewide growth.
Why Should You Attend?
This convening is specifically designed for the architects of Kentucky’s higher education strategy. We invite university and system leaders, trustees, regents, and state policymakers to engage in high-level dialogue focused on aligning institutional missions with the economic needs of the 21st century.
Agenda & Schedule
We are pleased to share the draft schedule for the two-day conference (please note that all times are the local Central Time Zone). Further details will be available this summer.
- Monday, Sept. 28 - We will open registration and serve lunch at noon. The keynote is scheduled for 1 pm, with programming continuing through the evening networking reception.
- Tuesday, Sept 29 - Programming will begin in the morning and conclude at approximately 3 pm.
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Lodging Arrangements
We have reserved a block of rooms for our guests at the Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront. Located right on the Ohio River, this hotel is steps away from the Owensboro Convention Center and the city's vibrant downtown attractions.
Special discounted rates have been secured for our group, ranging from $129 to $149 per night (plus tax), depending on your selected room type. To take advantage of the group rate, please use this booking link or call the hotel directly at (270) 685-2005 and mention the Group Code PSS or simply ask to be booked into the Council on Postsecondary Education block. All reservations must be made by August 28 to guarantee the group rate. After this date, rooms and rates will be subject to availability.
Questions
Questions regarding the 2026 Conference can be directed to event manager and board liaison, Heather Faesy.
Last Updated: 4/22/2026