Registration | Networking | Lodging | Transportation | Keynote | Schedule | SESSIONS 

2026 MIACADA CONFERENCE

FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY | BIG RAPIDS, MI | MAY 29, 2026 | 8AM-4PM

REGISTRATION

Registration is now open! Register here!

NETWORKING NIGHT

This year’s event will be held at the Artworks and Painted Turtle Gift Shop. We’re pleased to have Pere Marquette Bistro providing a selection of appetizers, snacks, charcuterie, and non-alcoholic beverages for the evening.

Due to venue constraints, we encourage attendees to take advantage of the Big Rapids Social District, with participating restaurants located just steps from Artworks, for alcoholic beverages. Guests are also welcome to bring their own preferred beverages to enjoy during the event.

In an effort to shake things up and create a more interactive networking experience, Artworks will be leading attendees in an optional hands-on art activity (such as canvas painting or pottery). It’s a fun and creative way to connect and you won’t want to miss it!

Register today!

MIACADA MENTORING PROGRAM

Virtual Kickoff Meeting (Pre-Conference)

May 20, 2026 – 11:30-1:00pm

Purpose: Establish connections and set expectations

• Welcome and program overview
• Mentor/mentee introductions
• Overview of roles, expectations, and goals
• Review of next steps

In-Person Networking Event (Thursday night before conference)

May 28, 2026 –  6:00-8:00pm

Purpose: Strengthen relationships and build community

• Informal mentor/mentee meet-up
• Lightly structured prompt
• Encourage additional networking
• Recognition of program participants

Post-Conference Virtual Check-In

June 24, 2026 – 11:30-1:00pm

Purpose: Reflect, assess progress, and sustain engagement

• Reflection on conference experiences
• Discussion on goals: progress and challenges
• Share success and takeaways
• Gather feedback on mentoring program

2026 MIACADA Conference Mentoring Program

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

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: 

https://www.ferris.edu/map/pdfs/current-campus-map.pdf

KEYNOTE SPEAKER  

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!

SCHEDULE AT-A-GLANCE