Gatherings That Inspire, Equip, and Connect
NECU events convene presidents, campus leaders, faculty, students, and partners around shared vocations. From national conferences to virtual salons, our gatherings spark collaboration and renewal.
Vocation of Lutheran Higher Education Conference
2026 Theme: “Beyond Walls, For the Common Good: Lutheran Higher Education and Civic Responsibility.”
- Dates: July 13-15, 2026
- Location: Augsburg University, Minneapolis, MN
In an age marked by polarization, inequality, and public distrust, Lutheran higher education is uniquely called to witness to faith active in love through its contributions to the civic and common good. The 2026 Vocation of Lutheran Higher Education Conference invites participants to step “beyond walls” — of campus, culture, and comfort — to rediscover how core values of faith and sharing “good news” shapes our shared responsibility for the world.
Rooted in the Lutheran tradition of two kin-doms and vocation as service to neighbor, this gathering explores how our institutions embody public faith: nurturing civic imagination, moral discernment, and courageous leadership. Together, we will examine how Lutheran colleges and universities can help heal the social fabric, cultivate democratic engagement, and advance justice for all people through education that integrates faith, reason, and the call to serve.
More information to come. We look forward to seeing you in Minneapolis!
Presidents' Summer Seminar
Every year, NECU Presidents gather together on one of our NECU campuses to learn more about the host institution and to discuss the current state of Lutheran Higher Education and things they are facing on their campuses.
- Dates: TBD
- Location: TBD
Student Leadership Summit
Every year, a diverse group of student leaders from across the network gather to increase collaboration, promote and encourage student perspectives and voices throughout NECU institutions, and develop collective advocacy and student movement initiatives.
- Dates: September 18-20, 2026
- Location: Chicago, IL
2025 Student Leadership Summit Video Highlights
