In an era marked by heightened scrutiny, shifting labor market demands, and growing calls for return on investment, colleges and universities are being asked to deliver evidence of their impact now while preparing for dramatic realignment of career expectations.
Inspired by Chicago’s iconic elevated train system (the “L”), the 2025 DEAC fall conference considers what’s possible when we elevate our thinking on institutional effectiveness in light of this new accountability, asking essential questions about the value of program offerings and articulating data-defensible answers to advance academic quality, demonstrate workforce relevance, and build public trust.
Sunday, October 19 | Opening Reception 6 to 8pm
Monday, October 20 | 8am to 5pm
Tuesday, October 21 | 8am to 4pm
The Wade Hotel
(formerly W Chicago Lakeshore)
644 N. Lakeshore Drive Chicago, IL 60611
Registration includes reception Sunday, breakfast and lunch Monday and Tuesday, and all workshop sessions (hotel accommodations not included).
The workshop is designed for institutions at all phases of their accreditation life cycle – whether new to accreditation, entering renewal, or maintaining continuous compliance – to learn best practices from industry experts and DEAC peers alike. For institutions planning to apply for initial accreditation or renewal of accreditation, at least one key person from the institution should attend within the year prior to applying.
As we conclude our first year of applying DEAC’s revised standards, the fall workshop will focus on institutional practices in five key areas:
Keynotes and plenary sessions will follow the one-track format of the 2024 workshop, and feature guest experts and seasoned DEAC evaluators providing both broad context and industry best practices, plus practical insights on demonstrating compliance with standards. Roundtable conversations following each presentation provide structured time to digest, apply, ask questions, and offer support with peers.
Optional affinity group sessions will be organized for institutions in initial or renewal accreditation processes, institutions operating primarily in Spanish, volunteer evaluators, and others to be determined.
Participant-initiated “closer conversations” on distance education and accreditation topics, a popular workshop feature from 2024, will continue.
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Washington, D.C. 20036
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