2026 UPCEA Annual Conference

International Network Track 

 

Wednesday, April 15

2:45 PM Concurrent Sessions I
 

Bridging Borders: Innovative Partnerships Between U.S. and Global Universities
Prince of Wales | International | Foundational |
As global demand for flexible, high-quality graduate education grows, partnership models are becoming essential to expanding access and reach. This panel of UPCEA International Network members will share emerging practices in cross-border collaboration, including insights inspired by SDSU Global Campus’s GlobalFlex approach, which reimagines hybrid graduate pathways for international learners. Panelists will discuss innovative strategies and opportunities for building partnerships which support culturally responsive learning experiences that support student success across borders. Through diverse examples and lessons learned, the session highlights how collaborative models are advancing access to high-quality online degrees and certificates worldwide.

  • Mahasweta Sarkar, San Diego State University
  • Lindsay Vance, San Diego State University
  • Mieke Ridderhof, Drieam
  • John Cribbin, The University of Hong Kong

Moderator: Patty Milner, University of Arkansas

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Thursday, April 16

9:00 AM Concurrent Sessions III
 

Building Success: A Holistic Model for International On-Campus Graduate Study
Prince of Wales | International | Applied | Tag(s): Engagement and Opportunity, Faculty, Graduate Education
This session will explore a holistic model for supporting international students in accelerated on-campus graduate programs. Presenters will share lessons learned regarding strategies including cohort-based learning, integrated academic and co-curricular support, a customized orientation, and a corporate partnership that provides students with a real-world capstone experience. The session will also examine a targeted communication plan enhanced by AI-driven predictive modeling to improve yield and enrollment forecasting. Attendees will gain practical insights into how these coordinated efforts have contributed to a 98 percent retention and completion rate.

  • Doug Bakker, Northwestern University

Moderator: Tiffany Chapman, Six Red Marbles

11:45 AM Lunch Pick Up for taking to Network Meetings (Grand Salon)
12:00 PM Network Lunch: Connecting and Celebrating Network Awards
 

Connect, celebrate, and collaborate at the Network Lunch & Awards. Hosted by UPCEA Networks (Areas of Practice) and open to all attendees, this luncheon brings peers together to recognize excellence through Network Awards and strengthen connections across the UPCEA community. Select the Network that aligns with your professional focus.

International
Churchhill C2
Join the International Network to explore global education strategies, international partnerships, and trends that integrate international perspectives into institutional teaching, learning and engagement.

  • Award Presentation: UPCEA International Program Of Excellence or Innovative Practice Award

Moderators:

  • Patty Milner, University of Arkansas
  • Sweta Sarkar, San Diego State University
  • Steve Mulligan, StudyPortals
  • Mieke Ridderhof, Drieam
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Learn more about the International Network.