Equip.
Lead.
Engage.
Equip. Lead. Engage.
Join Us
January 29 -
February 1, 2026
Dallas, TX
Join the largest global gathering of Christian higher education professionals for three days of powerful keynotes, worship, breakout sessions and more.
The CCCU International Forum—held once every four years—returns to Dallas, TX, from January 29 – February 1, 2026, and unites presidents, cabinet members, academic deans and more key leaders from around the world.
Together, we will explore pressing issues and emerging trends, while celebrating the vital role Christian higher education plays across the globe.
EXPERIENCE
50 Years of Advancing
Christian Higher Education.
In 2026, the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities marks five decades of championing Christ-centered higher education. From shaping national conversations to equipping faithful leaders and advancing academic excellence, the CCCU has stood as a strong, unified voice for Christian colleges and universities.
Join us at the 2026 International Forum to celebrate God’s faithfulness, honor our shared legacy and boldly step into the future of Christian higher education.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
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Mark Batterson
Pastor & Author
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Ruth Haley Barton
Founder, Transforming Center
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Kelly M. Kapic
Professor & Author
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Byron Johnson
Professor, Baylor University
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Tyler VanderWeele
Director, Human Flourishing Program
Agenda &
Schedule
Beyond the pre-conference gatherings, keynote speakers and topical breakout sessions, dedicated networking opportunities will be made available for you to connect with fellow Christian higher education colleagues.
Instrumental, peer-group-specific meetings (for presidents, as an example) will provide a detailed update on what is shaping your specific role within the broader higher education landscape.
View the full schedule of events to gain insight into what is planned. More details are being confirmed regularly, so be sure to keep this page bookmarked!
Foundational
Pre-Forum
Gatherings
Prior to the “main event,” several pre-conference gatherings will be offered for select attendees. Learn more about these gatherings, who will benefit from these pre-conference events and what you can expect to take away when you attend.
Strategic & Mission-Driven Breakout Sessions
Christian higher education is not exempt from the constantly changing forces impacting the broader higher education landscape. With seven topical areas of focus at the 2026 International Forum, attendees will experience sessions devoted to emerging trends, leadership strategies, innovative techniques and more.
The full schedule of selected breakout session topics and presenters will be shared here soon!
NEED TO KNOW
DATES & VENUE
Join us at the Gaylord Texan beginning Thursday, January 29, for a pre-conference gathering and evening “welcome tailgate” followed by two and a half days of unparalleled networking, worship and education, concluding Sunday, February 1.
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DEADLINES
Registration is now open! Be sure you take advantage of the special Forum-specific room block rate by booking your room at the Gaylord Texan by January 5, 2026.
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DEALS
Ensure you are part of the largest global gathering of Christian higher education professionals by saving on registration costs. See the full pricing details on our registration page.
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The International Forum is a gathering for all who impact Christian higher education to come together corporately in one large setting.
Whether you’re a president, chief academic officer/provost, vice president of advancement, senior director of graduate admissions, dean of the arts and humanities or something more, we invite you to join us in Dallas.
Not sure if you should attend the Forum?
If you work within the context of any of the roles listed here, the Forum is for you!
We hope you join us in this diverse network representing all levels of Christian higher education.
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Presidents
Vice Presidents
Cabinet-Level Decision-Makers
Board Chairpersons
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Chief Marketing Officers
Directors of Communications and Public Relations
Vice Presidents of Advancement
Directors of Alumni Relations
Development Officers
Chief Admissions and Enrollment Officers (traditional undergraduate, graduate, online and dual enrollment)
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Chief Information Officers
Directors of IT
Campus Ministers/Pastors
Directors of Student and Campus Life
Financial Aid Professionals
Athletics Administration
Campus Operations and Auxiliary Services
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Directors of Institutional Research
Library Deans
Deans of Schools (Business, Arts & Humanities, English, Science, etc.)
Doctoral Education Program Leaders
Directors of Study Abroad
Faculty Pursuing Tenure & Research Opportunities
Showcase Theater
Experience the Showcase Theater during the 2026 International Forum.
Christian higher education is shaping the future of film and digital media through visionary leadership and creative excellence. At the 2026 International Forum’s new Showcase Theater, attendees will hear from pioneering faculty at CCCU institutions who are equipping the next generation of visionary creatives and storytellers through cinema and media arts.
SPONSORS
Making This Gathering Unforgettable
Our valued partners make the 2026 International Forum an unmatched event.
We are thankful for the many partners who have already committed to being with us on-site in Dallas.
Partner with us
If your company or organization is interested in helping to serve, promote and advance the future of Christian higher education, we encourage you to join us in Dallas as a sponsor. With multiple levels of sponsorship opportunities and customizable sponsorship features, we want to make your ability to be a partner at this event a reality.