2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education | October 13-15, 2026 | Washington, DC | UPCEA + AACRAO

2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education

General Sessions

October 13 | 1:15 PM

The Future of Learning and Work: Building a Mobility-Ready Credential Ecosystem

Higher education is entering a new era where learning no longer happens in a single institution—or a single stage of life. Learners increasingly accumulate knowledge and skills across universities, workplaces, and credentials. Yet the systems that document and recognize learning remain largely institution-bound.

In this opening conversation, following UPCEA CEO remarks, Amy Heitzman and Melanie Gottlieb explore what the future of learning and work demands from higher education and how institutions must evolve to meet it. From learner mobility and skills recognition to digital records and integrated credit and noncredit pathways, they will examine the infrastructure required to support lifelong learners.

The conversation will be followed by a moderated panel featuring institutional leaders who are actively redesigning systems to make learning more portable, transparent, and connected to opportunity.

 

  • Amy Heitzman, UPCEA

  • Amy Heitzman









  • Melanie Gottlieb, AACRAO

    Melanie Gottlieb