Rest: Reclaiming Power Through Resilience & Resistance.
UNITED 2026 is free, and all sessions are open to the public; however, registration is required for everyone.
Sessions will be held across Northern Michigan University’s campus, and transportation will be provided with a shuttle looping the campus. Transportation stops will include the Northern Center, Woodland Park Opportunity Area, Jacobetti, and a Down campus stop outside of the Woods.
Registration Opening Soon
Tentative | Wednesday, March 25, 2026
8:00–9:00 AM — Networking Breakfast
9:00–10:00 AM — Keynote Speaker
10:00 AM–12:00 PM — Breakout Sessions
11:50 AM–1:00 PM — Lunch
1:00–4:00 PM — Breakout Sessions
4:30–5:30 PM — Stephen A. Kuusisto Reading and Q&A
5:30–7:30 PM — Poetry Without Borders followed by Reception
Tentative | Thursday, March 26, 2026
8:00–9:00 AM — Networking Breakfast
9:00–10:00 AM — Keynote Panel
10:00 AM–3:00 PM — Wellbeing Fair
10:00 AM–12:00 PM — Breakout Sessions
11:50 AM–1:00 PM — Stephen Kuusisto Keynote & Lunch
1:00–4:00 PM — Breakout Sessions
4:00–5:00 PM — Stephen Kuusisto Workshop on Disability Aesthetics, Guide Dog Culture, and Access-Centered Storytelling
5:30–7:30 PM — Research, Innovation, and Sustainability Summit Poster Presentations and Reception
Tentative | Friday, March 27, 2026
10:00 AM–2:00 PM — Design Jam
12:00–1:00 PM — Lunch
2:00–4:00 PM — Big Pitch and Outdoor Pitch
5:30–7:30 PM — Innovation Friday