2026 TMA Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (SLCE) Conference
October 17, 2026 @ 9:00AM — 4:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar
American University: 4400 Massachusetts Ave Washington, DC 20016 Get Directions
Co-Creating Change: Collaborative Community Partnerships
Please make plans to attend the 2026 SLCE Conference - Co-Creating Change: Collaborative Community Partnerships, being held at American University on Saturday, October 17, 2026, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.
Sign up today for Early Bird Pricing! Early Bird registration open until August 9th, 2026.
The Vision
The Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (SLCE) Conference seeks to cultivate a thriving network of students, faculty, staff, and community partners who work together to advance the public purposes of higher education through authentic, reciprocal community partnerships.
The Theme
Co-Creating Change: Collaborative Community Partnerships. The SLCE Conference highlights the efforts of institutions of higher learning and community organizations that work side by side to address complex social challenges, strengthen civic learning, and expand opportunities for meaningful engagement. By connecting best practices in service-learning, community engagement, and professional development, the conference elevates innovative approaches that deepen relationships between campuses and the communities they serve.
The Aim
The SLCE Conference is not just a moment of gathering; it is a catalyst for continued collaboration. Participants are encouraged to carry forward the conversations, partnerships, and ideas sparked at the conference by integrating them into their classrooms, campuses, organizations, and communities. Together, attendees and partners can continue co-creating change, expanding civic learning, and strengthening the partnerships that move communities and higher education forward.
The 2026 conference marks the second time American University (AU) has had the honor of hosting this gathering, the first being in 2014, and organizers are excited to bring back this cherished day-long, in-person event. A heartfelt thank you goes to Coppin State University for reigniting the momentum by hosting in 2025, and for reminding the region of the power and importance of this conference. Their leadership made this return possible.
Recognizing AU's longstanding commitment to fostering partnerships that generate meaningful societal impact and advancing knowledge for the public good, this gathering seeks to generate new ideas, strengthen collaboration, and amplify the collective work happening across the region.
By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the terms outlined in the following event disclaimer and waiver.
I hereby grant Transform Mid-Atlantic (TMA) the unrestricted right and permission to record, photograph, film, and/or otherwise capture my image, likeness, voice, or appearance in any media format. I further grant TMA the right to reproduce, use, exhibit, display, distribute, broadcast, and create derivative works from these recordings or images for any lawful purpose in connection with TMA’s mission and activities.
This includes, but is not limited to, use in educational materials, promotional content, publications, social media, and other public media platforms, as determined appropriate by TMA. I understand that I may be identifiable in such materials.
I waive any right to inspect or approve the final products or the specific uses of such recordings or images. I further waive any rights, claims, or interests I may have in connection with the use of my likeness, including any right to compensation.