Where Policy and Practice Meet Purpose
The ACT Summit is your opportunity to share innovative ideas, best practices, and insights with leaders in K-12, higher education, and workforce development. We are now accepting proposals for sessions focusing on policy, strategy, and leadership that inspire cross-sector collaboration and drive meaningful change.
Proposal Deadline: Sept. 3, 2025
We’re looking for presentations on cutting-edge topics in college and career readiness including:
Join us at the 2026 ACT Summit, where leaders from K-12, higher education, and workforce sectors come together to solve today's most pressing challenges. This event is a dynamic platform for actionable insights and strategies across interconnected fields. Attendees can engage with peers, share experiences, and collaborate on innovative solutions that span the K-career spectrum. Dive into cross-sector sessions designed to spark collaboration, foster problem solving, and shape the future of education and the workforce.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Utah State Board of Education
Dr. Sydnee Dickson has served Utah students for 44 years as a teacher, counselor, and administrator. She joined the Utah State Office of Education in 2007 and became State Superintendent in 2016. With advanced degrees in counseling, administration, and education leadership, she champions student success. She serves on national boards and advises on digital learning, educator support, and innovation in education policy.
Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development Commissioner
Commissioner Deniece Thomas joined the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development in 2007 and has held roles from Assistant Commissioner to agency leader. She chairs the National Governor’s Association’s Association of Liaisons, serves on the National Association of State Workforce Agencies board, and collaborates with southeastern leaders. She’ll join a panel on connecting K-12, higher ed, and workforce policy.
President and CEO, The Hunt Institute
Dr. Javaid Siddiqi, former Virginia Secretary of Education, is President & CEO of The Hunt Institute, leading its strategy and vision. A trusted thought partner, he collaborates with officials to shape education policy. He will moderate a panel of state education leaders discussing innovations in college and career pathways, workforce readiness, certifications, apprenticeships, and efforts to prepare students for life after high school.
Vice Provost for Academic Innovation, University of Texas San Antonio
Melissa Vito is a nationally recognized leader in higher education, with over 35 years of experience driving student success and institutional innovation. In 2018, Melissa joined the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) as Vice Provost for Academic Innovation. Under her leadership, UTSA Online has risen into the top 20% of all online programs nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report. She also established the Academic Innovation Center, a collaborative hub for faculty and students, and spearheaded UTSA’s pioneering efforts in integrating Generative AI into education.