University of Louisiana System Academic Summit 2026
Summit Program
ULS Academic Summit
In its 100th year of serving the region and state, Southeastern Louisiana University is proud to welcome you to our campus for the 15th annual University of Louisiana System Academic Summit. This event will be held on Thursday, April 16, and Friday, April 17, 2026.
Outstanding students from each of the nine ULS institutions will present their research, creative arts, and service-learning activities.
Tentative Cost: $60
Conference Schedule
Programming will be added after submission deadlines.
Thursday, April 16
2 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Check-in and poster set-up (D. Vickers Hall, Sims Memorial iHub).
3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. – Welcome Address (D. Vickers Hall: Vonnie Borden Theatre).
3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Poster Presentations (Sims Memorial Library).
5 p.m. to 6 p.m. – Welcome Reception with light refreshments (Contemporary Art Gallery).
6 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Stage Performances (Pottle Music Building).
5 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Art Exhibition (Contemporary Art Gallery).
Friday, April 17
7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. – Registration and poster viewing w/ light snacks provided (D. Vickers Hall, Sims Memorial iHub).
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Panel and Research Presentations (D. Vickers Hall).
12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. – Keynote Speaker, awards, and lunch provided (D. Vickers Hall).
Message from Dr. Rick Gallot, President & CEO University of Louisiana System
The Academic Summit reflects the kind of learning experience our universities strive to create for students across the University of Louisiana System, one that encourages curiosity, creativity, and meaningful engagement with the world around them.
Each year, the Summit highlights undergraduate research, artistic expression, and service learning taking place across our campuses. Students present original research that advances knowledge across disciplines, share creative work that enriches the cultural life of our universities and communities, and demonstrate how classroom learning can be applied to real challenges facing the communities we serve.
These experiences are essential to preparing students for careers, graduate study, and leadership. They also reflect the broader role our universities play in strengthening Louisiana. By supporting discovery, creativity, and service, our institutions help develop the talent, ideas, and civic leadership that contribute to the long term success of our state.
I am grateful to the faculty who mentor and guide these students and proud of the work our students bring forward through the Academic Summit each year.
Message from Dr. William S. Wainwright, President of Southeastern Louisiana University
It is my honor to welcome you to this year’s Universities of Louisiana Academic Summit! Our Southeastern Lion Family has been working hard to ensure you have the best experience possible – one that allows you all to highlight undergraduate research taking place at your home institutions.
This summit serves as our way to celebrate Louisiana students’ achievements and the interests that drive you to lead our state into the future. From visual and performing arts to research posters and oral presentations, Universities of Louisiana institutions attend this summit to bring intellectual discussion and unique perspectives from their respective regions of the state.
Southeastern specifically prides itself as the cornerstone for educational growth and cultural development of the northshore region. We hope you enjoy the historic Pottle Music Building, exceptional Contemporary Art Gallery, award-winning Sims Memorial Library, and the newly renovated D Vickers Hall and Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center. These venues represent Southeastern’s past, present and future, and serve as staging grounds for your presentations. Make the most of your time as you visit these buildings!
Thank you to our students across the UL System who will be presenting their work at this summit. You are the future of Louisiana and serve as some of the best examples of what higher education in our state has to offer. We hope you all have a wonderful experience as you share your research and creative pursuits. Enjoy our campus, explore a wealth of fresh perspectives, and indulge in your shared passion for academic growth.
Hotel Information
Event Summary:
UL System Academic SummitStart Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
End Date: Friday, April 17, 2026
Hotel(s) offering your special group rate:
Courtyard by Marriott Hammond
129.00 USD per night – Last Day to Book: Thursday, March 19, 2026
You will find the information for your online reservation link below. If you have questions or need help with the link, please do not hesitate to ask. We appreciate your business and look forward to a successful event.
Book your Marriott Hotel Room.
Hampton Inn of Hammond
Room rate: $129 for king or two queen beds
Book before: April 3, 2026