Student-led Policy Conference
—Preparing tomorrow’s rising leaders to be workforce ready through our statewide, policy based conference. Created by students for students, and for the benefit of the Florida College System.
2026 Conference Information
The Student Led Conference is a unique opportunity for students across the state to gain valuable leadership experience, connect with subject-matter experts, and expand their professional networks. Student-led and student-run, the conference is hosted by the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS) at St. Petersburg College, for the benefit of the Florida College System.
This year, our conference will be addressing Artificial Intelligence (AI). It’s our intention that this statewide initiative will prepare students by having a deeper understanding of AI systems, and how to responsibly harness this technology for their respective careers.
Core Components
| Interactive |
Students engage in breakout sessions, listen to expert speakers, and collaborate with peers and field experts in meaningful discussions. |
| Action-Oriented |
Students form teams to develop and present innovative policy solutions. |
| Collaborative and Ongoing |
All attendees are assigned to randomized groups with students from different colleges to enhance engagement and networking. |
| Network Development and Community Building |
Students present their policy to a panel of experts in the field, and the winning idea is forwarded to state leadership. |
| Educational |
Students gain insights from public leaders, the nonprofit sector, the business industry and expert voices and leave with a working knowledge of the topic and the policy process. |
When is the 2026 Student Conference?
The date of the 2026 Conference is July 16th -17th, 2026.
What is the purpose of the Conference?
The Conference invites participants from across the Florida College System to gain leadership experience and network with subject-matter experts in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students will be paired with fellow college peers on creating and presenting on public policy proposals in relation to the topic of AI.
Is the Conference free to attend?
The Conference is free to attend, however, all participants are responsible for transportation to the venue. Meals are provided during the Conference. Lodging is also provided conference attendees.
How can ISPS support your college throughout the process?
ISPS supports participating colleges in a multitude of ways, including:
- Hosting organizational meetings for participating colleges to ask questions, share information and explore best practices.
- Marketing the event afterwards to highlight the work from participating students and promote next year’s student-led conference.
- Working with your college to provide the best possible experience for students.
What happens during the Conference?
Students will engage in breakout sessions, listen to expert speakers, and collaborate with peers and field experts in meaningful discussions. They will then form teams to develop and present innovative policy solutions.
How will the Conference engage students?
To enhance student engagement and networking, all attendees from participating colleges will be assigned to randomized groups with students from different colleges. This will foster collaboration and connections throughout the event.
Networking During Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be structured to allow assigned groups to eat together at designated tables. This setup will ensure networking opportunities before and after speaker sessions, while energizing participants and fostering teamwork.
Social Media Engagement Contest
Students will be encouraged to create and share engaging social media content using a pre-determined hashtag (#spcisps) for Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Content themes will be assigned, including:
- Most Creative/Engaging Content – $50 for the individual winner
- Best Group Photo – $25 a piece per group member.
Submissions will be uploaded via Photo Circle Link or posted on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn.) A panel of judges and student volunteers will review entries, and winners will receive gift cards.
Group & College Photos
Students will take group photos with their assigned teams and an additional photo with students from their university. College logos will be added in post-production, and these images will be made available online.
Breakout Speaker Sessions
To optimize learning and engagement, the conference will feature four breakout speaker sessions, allowing students to choose sessions based on their interests. The conference will provide an engaging, interactive, and dynamic experience that fosters meaningful student connections, collaboration, and participation.
Can students under 18 years old attend the Conference?
Any student enrolled in the Florida College System may participate in our conference. Dual enrollment students are encouraged to attend as well. Please note — any student under the age of 18 cannot share a room with students over the age of 18. Also, the designated lead must chaperone and take responsibility for the student during the entirety of the conference.
Do I have to stay at the hotel after the Conference concludes?
You are not obligated to stay at either of the hotels during or after the conference ends. If college faculty and students prefer to drive back home, they are welcome to do so with no financial penalties.
Who hosts the Conference?
The Conference is hosted by the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS) at St. Petersburg College. ISPS is dedicated to advancing academic excellence, community engagement, economic vitality, and public understanding through high-quality, solutions-directed, non-partisan public policy program. More information can be found on the ISPS website.