ACEx2025 Sessions to Feature Range of Experts Examining Critical Topics
January 13, 2025

Free speech, global perspectives, and the state of U.S. higher education are among the issues a diverse collection of experts will explore on the first full day of the ACE Experience 2025 (ACEx2025), the premier higher education convening Feb. 12-13 in Washington, DC at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.*

ACE President Ted Mitchell with kick off the day with keynote remarks that address the most pressing challenges in higher education today. Following his remarks, Mitchell will engage in a fireside chat with Tressie McMillan Cottom, a renowned sociologist, 2020 MacArthur Fellow, and New York Times opinion columnist.

Following concurrent sessions, ACEx2025 attendees will gather for a session on the evolving landscape of free speech within U.S. higher education. A panel featuring Deborah N. Archer, president, American Civil Liberties Union; Laura Meckler, national education writer, The Washington Post; and Michael Roth, president, Wesleyan University will explore significant shifts and current challenges that affect free speech on campuses.

The final session Wednesday afternoon will be on global perspectives on the state of higher education featuring a panel of distinguished international university leaders who will explore diverse issues faced by universities around the world and compare them with those encountered in the United States.

ACEx2025 will feature an array of other important discussions, ranging from concerns of college presidents, college athletics, the Carnegie Classifications, and much more. Additionally, ACE will bring together member presidents and chancellors from across the country for its inaugural Capitol Hill advocacy day on Feb. 11 to engage directly with policymakers and advocate for the future of higher education.

The ACEx2025 Schedule at a Glance showcases what attendees can anticipate, and additional speakers and sessions will be announced leading up to the convening. Click here to view a thorough overview of sessions and events that have been announced.

Register now for ACEx2025 to secure a discounted rate and ensure you can attend this year’s premier higher education convening. Advanced pricing ends Jan. 30. ACEx2025 is open to leaders at every level who are shaping the future of higher education.

*The ACE Experience 2025 is an external rental presented in coordination with the Kennedy Center Campus Rentals Office and is not produced by the Kennedy Center.