Modern Learner Summit

Trellis Strategies and the Trellis Foundation invite you to join us in Austin, TX for the inaugural Modern Learner Summit, taking place September 15–16, 2025.

Sept.15: 11:00 am-6:00 pm (CT)

Sept.16: 8:00 am-4:00 pm (CT)

This two-day convening will bring together higher education leaders, nonprofit partners, and policy stakeholders to explore a central question: How are today’s students navigating college and how can institutions adapt to support them?

The Modern Learner is not one type of student. They may be returning adults, first-generation students, caregivers, part-time enrollees, or individuals balancing work, family, and school. What they share is a need for systems that are flexible, relevant, and designed to meet them where they are.

Agenda

September 15^th, 2025: Defining the Modern Learner

• 11:00 AM Check-In
• 12:00 PM Welcome & Defining the Modern Learner
• 12:30-1:20 PM General Session: Defining Non-Linear Pathways and Credential Attainment
• 1:30 – 2:15 PM General Session: Learner-Centered Course Design
• 2:15 – 3:15 PM Snack & Fireside Chat: Reflections on Leadership for Modern Learners
  • Dr. Harrison Keller, President, University of North Texas
• 3:15 – 4:00 PM General Session: Quality Outcomes on Non-Degree Credentials
• 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM Reception: Punch Bowl Social

September 16^th, 2025: Scaling Best Practices

• 8:00 – Breakfast
• 8:30 – 9:20 AM General Session: Rural Learners
• 9:30 – 10:20 AM General Session: Policy Implications for Texas Higher Education
• 10:30 – 11:20 AM Deep Dive Sessions
  • Basic Needs Track: Transportation Solutions
  • Non-Linear Pathway Track: Creating a Campus Culture of Support
  • Quality Outcomes Track: Micro Educational Experiences
• 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM Lunch
• 12:30 – 1:20 PM Deep Dive Sessions
  • Basic Needs Track: Public Benefit Support
  • Non-Linear Pathway Track: Workforce Solutions & Higher Education Partnership
  • Quality Outcomes Track: Competency Based Education and Skill Verification
• 1:30 – 2: 15 PM General Session: Update from Washington, D.C.
  • Dr. Tom Harnisch, Vice President for Government Relations, SHEEO
• 2:30 – 3:15 PM General Session: Deep Dive on Flexible Delivery Pathways
  • Dr. Mark Milliron, President, National University
• 3:15 – 4:00 PM Closing Session
  • Dr. Wynn Rosser, Commissioner, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Event Location

The Westin Austin at The Domain
11301 Domain Dr, Austin, TX 78758, USA
512-832-4197

Contact Andrea.Gonzalez@trellisstrategies.org with event questions.