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Registration | Networking | Lodging | Transportation | Keynote | Schedule | SESSIONS
2026 MIACADA CONFERENCE
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY | BIG RAPIDS, MI | MAY 29, 2026 | 8AM-4PM
NETWORKING NIGHT
Coming soon!
MIACADA MENTORING PROGRAM
Coming soon!
LODGING
The following hotels are available for conference attendees:
Holiday Inn Express Big Rapids
1005 Perry Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 796-4400
1 mile from campus
Call to reserve using group code “MIACADA26”
- Double Queen Room: $134/night (plus tax)
- King Standard Room: $124/night (plus tax)
Hampton by Hilton Big Rapids
15320 Waldron Way, Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 527-7333
3 miles from campus
Call to reserve using group code “Ferris Conference”
- Double Queen Room: $125/night (plus tax)
Country Inn and Suites Big Rapids
15344 Waldron Way, Big Rapids, MI 49307
(231) 598-8898
3 miles from campus
Call to reserve using group code “Ferris Conference”
- Double Queen Room: $125/night (plus tax)
Note: Room blocks are available until May 5, 2026
TRANSPORTATION
From Detroit:
Traveling to Big Rapids from the Detroit metropolitan area is a straightforward drive of approximately 3 hours (about 170–190 miles, depending on your starting point). The most common route is to take Interstate 96 west toward Grand Rapids, then merge onto U.S. Route 131 north, which will take you directly into Big Rapids (Exit 139).
From Flint/Saginaw:
Traveling to Big Rapids from the Flint / Saginaw area is a convenient drive of approximately 2.5 hours (about 120–150 miles, depending on your starting point). From either city, travelers can take Interstate 69 or Interstate 75 south to connect with Interstate 96 west near Lansing, then merge onto U.S. Route 131 north near Grand Rapids, which leads directly into Big Rapids (Exit 139).
From Lansing:
Traveling to Big Rapids from Lansing is a straightforward drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (about 90–100 miles). From Lansing, take Interstate 96 west toward Grand Rapids, then merge north onto U.S. Route 131, which leads directly to Big Rapids (Exit 139).
From Mackinaw Bridge:
Traveling to Big Rapids from the Mackinac Bridge is a scenic and straightforward drive of approximately 2 hours (about 110–130 miles). From the bridge, take Interstate 75 south briefly, then merge onto U.S. Route 131 south near Petoskey or Boyne Falls, depending on your route. Continue south on US-131, which will take you directly into Big Rapids (Exit 139).
Parking on Campus:
The most convenient parking lot for MIACADA Conference attendees is 5H, which will be open to guests during the summer months (including May). This lot is directly across from the FLITE Library as you enter campus from the Perry Rd. & State St. Intersection. The follow coordinates can be added to your GPS for directions: 43.686546, -85.483065
More information can be found here:
Bill Cecil - Conference Keynote
The 2026 MIACADA Annual Conference Planning Committee is excited to announce Bill Cecil, creator of the the Best Year Ever program, as our keynote speaker. A former Michigan Teacher of the Year with 31 years in the classroom, Bill brings a powerful message that resonates deeply with academic advising. His focus on growth mindset, student empowerment, and purposeful connection aligns with the core of our work, inspiring advisors to motivate, support, and guide students toward achieving their very best!