Call for Proposals

Begin Submission

Call for Proposals Submission Guide

Deadline: October 31, 2026

Submissions are open to Extension professionals throughout the North Central region. Submit your application no later than October 31, 2026. You will be notified no later than December 15, 2026, whether your proposal has been accepted or not.

Note: We encourage presenters - especially those who are presenting as part of a group - to use a Word document version of the submission form. Once you are ready to submit, have the lead presenter submit on behalf of the group.

There are three presentation options:

  • Lightning Talk: These are short (5-10 minutes) talks on a given leadership topic. (Note: presenters will be held tightly to a 10-minute maximum time.)
  • Poster Sessions: Posters highlight the conference theme of Navigating Change: Adapting, Leading, and Thriving in a Shifting Landscape.
  • Breakout Sessions: These are 60-minute sessions that provide an in-depth look at a topic connected to the conference theme. Strong consideration will be given to proposals that connect with one of the following areas related to change: cultural, organizational, or technical.

Submission Checklist

  • Title
  • Short Abstract (300 words)
  • Longer Description (1,500 words maximum)
  • Session Desired (check all that may apply)
    • Lighting Talk
    • Poster Session
    • Breakout Session
  • Outcomes of the session
  • Lead presenter and state
  • Additional presenter(s) and state(s)
  • How the presentation is connected to the conference them
  • Choose your session type (below).

Please note: Examples below are merely sample ideas. All ideas for sessions that are connected to the conference theme are welcome.

Examples

Adapting, Leading, or Thriving within Cultural Changes

  • Changing Community Demographics
  • Political Landscape and the Impacts on Extension Funding
  • Working through Attitudinal Changes Related to Higher Education

Adapting, Leading, or Thriving within Organizational Changes

  • How We Lead and Support Staff
  • Supervisory Structures within Extension
  • Adjustments and Changes to Program Areas
  • Working through Leadership Transitions (Interims, Special Assignments)
  • Budget Challenges or Reductions

Adapting, Leading, or Thriving withing Technical Changes

  • Advancement of AI and Digital Tools
  • Ethical Use of AI in Extension Work
  • Remote Leadership with Dispersed Teams
  • Using Technology to Do More (or the Same) with Less Financial Resources
Scoring Rubric

CategoryPoints
Presentation applies to middle management/leadership.0-15 points
Presentation has clearly defined outcomes.0-20 points
Presentation topic is based upon a foundation of research, theory, or practical application.
  • Participants will gain knowledge to help them further develop their skills related to navigating cultural, structural, or technical changes.
0-15 points
Presentation topic has the ability to be replicated in other states.0-10 points
Presentation reflects innovation for Extension when navigating change.0-10 points
Presentation stimulates audience engagement (if possible).
  • Provides tools to implement a new practice.
0-10 points
Presentation abstract and description clearly communicated the content and intent of the proposal.0-20 points
Total100 points

If your proposal is accepted:

  • All presenters are required to register for and attend the NCLC27 in Madison, Wisconsin.
  • Accepted presenters will receive a $50 discount on their registration.

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