Less than 50 days to go until the Back to School Summit 2026
The countdown is on to the 25th Annual Back to School Summit, taking place in New York City from September 15–17.
As one of the education sector's longest-running leadership gatherings, the Summit brings together the university leaders, policymakers, CEOs, investors and innovators shaping what's next for higher education, workforce development and global talent.
Tickets are selling quickly and places are limited. Secure your place today to join the conversations defining the future of education.
A Snapshot of This Year’s Agenda
Redefining Value in Higher Education: A Fireside Chat with Jeff Selingo
September 16 | 12:00-12:30
The traditional assumptions about higher education are being rewritten. As students, families, and employers place greater emphasis on outcomes, affordability, and opportunity, institutions are being challenged to rethink how they create and demonstrate value. Join higher education thought leader and author Jeff Selingo for a candid conversation on the changing expectations shaping the sector.
Workforce Policy in Transition
September 16 | 2:00pm-2:30pm
Demand for skills is rising while workforce policy continues to evolve. This session examines developments in funding, apprenticeships, and employer incentives alongside institutional capacity to deliver. Expect insight into how policy direction is shaping opportunity and where implementation will matter most.
The Human Advantage: Who You Are, Not What You Know
September 17 | 10:00am-10:30am
For years, arts and humanities graduates have faced questions about the value of their degrees. Yet as AI automates more technical and routine tasks, uniquely human capabilities such as creativity, critical thinking, communication, and ethical judgment are becoming increasingly important. This session explores whether the skills traditionally associated with arts and humanities education are emerging as a competitive advantage, and what that means for students, employers, and the future of higher education.
Connecting Virginia’s SMBs with Tomorrow’s AI Workforce
September 17 | 12:00-12:30
As AI reshapes the workforce, stronger collaboration between higher education, industry, and learners is essential. This panel brings together leaders from the University of Virginia and Google, and a student perspective, to explore the impact of an innovative model for scalable AI workforce development. Through free, virtual, asynchronous programming, student teams partner with Virginia small businesses, nonprofits, and public-sector organizations to solve real challenges, combining hands-on experience with industry-recognized credentials and employer engagement. The discussion will offer practical insights on delivering applied AI learning at scale and preparing students with workforce-ready skills.
*Session timings may be subject to change
We look forward to welcoming you to New York City for this landmark 25th edition.
Best wishes,
QS Team
