Regional conference coordinators provide leadership to the planning efforts for the premier educational and networking event of the region. This position expands the volunteer’s network and develops skills in event planning, establishing vision, and managing teams.

Reporting to the regional director and being supported by the events and operations manager staff liaison, for a two-year term, regional conference coordinators are responsible for:

  • Recruiting, selecting, and leading a committee to plan the regional conference.
  • Establishing a planning team from the host institution in support of the conference committee.
  • Coordinating monthly conference calls with the Regional Conference Planning Team and conference host institution representatives.
  • Providing a cost-effective, educational, and engaging experience for professionals and students that supports and advances the mission of ACUI.
  • Working closely with the business manager to prepare a budget for the conference and with the host institution to minimize conference expenses.
  • Completing a report after the regional conference for the Regional Leadership Team, which includes final budget numbers, participation numbers, and program evaluation results.
  • Ensuring the regional conference evaluation of the educational program and conference logistics is completed, in partnership with the ACUI Education Council.
  • Collaborating with other members of the Regional Leadership Team for their needs related to the regional conference, including marketing, awards presentations, corporate involvement, inclusivity, regional communications, volunteer recognition, and website.
  • Assisting the regional director in recruiting future regional conference locations.
  • Working with the incoming regional conference coordinator to ensure a smooth transition of conference planning information and resources.

This is a regional leading volunteer position, ideal for those interested in determining and advancing strategic directions, governing over long-term goals, representing the association to other members, and setting the tone for member experiences.

Applications for this role are now open in several regions. Check out the application section below or your region’s webpage for more details.

Previous experience on the Regional Leadership Team or a Regional Conference Planning Team is beneficial, though not required. Additional time may be required during the months leading up to the Regional Conference.

All Regional Leadership Team members are also responsible for:

  • Participating in scheduled Regional Leadership Team meetings during the year. These typically include monthly conference calls; a face-to-face meeting at the regional conference; and a second face-to-face meeting at a time determined by the team.
  • Acting as a resource person for the region and campus organizations.
  • Inspiring student involvement in regional and ACUI events and opportunities.
  • Developing proposal for an educational session at the regional conference.
  • Supporting efforts in the region to raise funds for scholarships and corporate partnerships.
  • Training and coordinating shadowing for in-coming volunteer in all processes and procedures related to their role.

Direct expenses for conducting association or regional business for meetings are covered by the association. However, positions requiring the volunteer to travel and be registered for conferences and events,is a commitment of the volunteer’s institution.

Given current realities regarding potential current and future travel restrictions, members interested in this volunteer opportunity should still apply, and we will be flexible with accommodations and exceptions on a case-by-case basis, as necessary.

All regions are seeking applications for this position.

The written application will ask you to:

  • Provide your name, institution, and contact information
  • Describe your relevant professional experience, ACUI volunteer experience, other professional/community volunteer experience, and/or educational background
  • Select which volunteer opportunities you are interested in
  • Upload a signed Institutional Support Form [pdf], as this position requires travel, financial support to register for event(s), and/or significant out-of-office time

Note: The application process is updated this year through our new membership platform—which means applications can autofill with your profile information, be saved as pending for edits until you officially submit, and be stored for your future access. In order to submit an application, you will need to create an account login, if you don’t already have one.

To discuss volunteering with your institution to ensure that they are supportive of your involvement, download these About Volunteer with ACUI talking points [pdf] to share additional information about what it means to be a volunteer.

A screening committee made up of the volunteer team leader, the regional membership experience coordinator, and other related volunteers will review applications, interview candidates, and make recommendations for selections.

Volunteers involved in this opportunity will enhance their skill sets in the areas below. Learn more about the ACUI core competencies for the profession.

Event Management

  • Programming and Event planning
  • Event Operations

Planning

  • Goal Setting
  • Establishing Priorities
  • Project Management

Organizational Leadership

  • Conflict Resolution
  • Problem Solving
  • Group Management

Fiscal Management

  • Budget Management and Development

At the time of application, individuals must have: employment at a higher education institution; institutional or individual membership; a signed institutional support form; and a commitment to fulfilling the duties of the position for the length of the term. Applicants must also demonstrate an understanding of ACUI’s vision, core values, and core competencies, as well as the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position.

Regional leading volunteer positions require a commitment of two years, except for student positions which have a one-year term. Over the course of the term, volunteers should anticipate at least 4 hours of conference call and project work per month, in addition to attending in-person Regional Leadership Team meetings.