Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education examines new and emerging trends and models, especially at the institutional level, in the emergent field of alternative credentials.
Presented jointly by UPCEA and AACRAO, two of the organizations most critical to the future development and implementation of innovative credentials, this event brings together key campus stakeholders in credential innovation—deans of professional education, chief online learning officers, registrars, and their staff—to define and develop their institutional strategy with respect to alternative credentials.
Convergence reflects the confluence of factors leading to the evolution of this fast-moving, but still largely amorphous movement. This event serves as a unique platform for professionals from diverse backgrounds to converge, connect, and catalyze positive change in our ever-evolving educational landscape. From thought-provoking general sessions to interactive workshops, roundtables, and other special session formats presented by institutional colleagues, Convergence promises to be a dynamic and enriching experience for all attendees.
As at the sold-out 2023 and 2024 events, Convergence attendees will explore successful and emerging models of credential innovation, connect and collaborate with other credentials stakeholders from across the higher education community, and begin planning for the advancement of credential innovation on their campuses at the 2025 conference.
Who should attend?
Members of UPCEA, members of AACRAO, and others engaged in credential innovation in the higher education space. Convergence offers content for senior leaders responsible for institutional strategy for alternative credentials; other administrators working in the space; and registrars and other related professionals.
Need a justification letter for your manager or organization on why you should attend? Download a template here.
Want to get updates for the 2025 Convergence event? Sign up here:
June 18, 2025 | 3:00 PM-4:00 PM ET
Coffee Chat | A Sneak Peek at Convergence 2025: Using AI to Unlock Opportunities for People with Some College, No Degree
Co-Hosted by UPCEA and AACRAO | Sponsored by the UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation
In this informal Coffee Chat learn how AACRAO and UPCEA members are leveraging artificial intelligence to help the over 37 million individuals who have completed some college coursework but never earned a degree—who are missing out on the 86% average wage premium that degree holders enjoy over those with only a high school diploma. Through innovative approaches to standardized taxonomy, incremental credentialing, credit mobility, and skills documentation, panelists will explain how they are using technology to bridge the gap between college experience and career opportunity, unlocking a more inclusive and flexible future for learners nationwide.
Featuring:
Hosts: Mike Simmons, AACRAO; Quintina Barnett Gallion, AACRAO; Amy Heitzman, UPCEA
Click here to access the room at 3 PM ET on June 18 or download our calendar invite.
Coffee Chats are informal, unrecorded, live opportunities to connect with UPCEA peers. Typically an hour or less, they provide time to discuss topics of interest, share ideas and connect with others in a casual setting.
