Academic Kickoff 2026

Academic Kickoff is an annual event that offers an opportunity to connect as a college community, celebrate the innovation, teamwork, and people that help shape exceptional learning experiences across DC, and prepare for the academic year ahead.

This year’s theme, Rewiring for Possibility, emphasizes the importance of adapting, rethinking, and creating new opportunities in a rapidly evolving world. With change accelerating across education, technology, and the workplace, this theme invites us to explore how we can sharpen our approach, embrace diverse perspectives, and remain open to new ways of learning, collaborating, and supporting student success.

To bring this theme to life, we will hear from neuroscientist and science communicator Dr. Samantha Yammine, known as Science Sam, as this year’s keynote speaker. In her keynote, Recharging Your Brain for More Creativity and Curiosity, Samantha will discuss how we can protect our attention, recharge our thinking, and create environments where every learner can thrive.

Following the keynote, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in small group activities to help translate these insights into practical approaches for your own work.

We will also announce the recipient of this year’s Researcher Award of Excellence, celebrating the important contributions of our applied research community.

Time: 9 a.m. to noon (A light breakfast will be available at 8:30 a.m.)
RSVP: Please register by Friday, August 21.