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What is the LEAD Conference?

LEAD Conference is a one-day conference focused on introducing students to topics that enhance their leadership skills and connecting them to other students to create a network of support. LEAD stands for Lead, Explore, Aspire, and Develop, where students lead with purpose, explore their potential, aspire to make an impact, and develop the foundation of lifelong leadership.

The conference focuses on the Leadership Identity Development model, where the term leader is not a person with a title or position. Instead, leadership happens from any seat and a leader is anyone engaging in the leadership process. Leaders contribute, build relationships, collaborate, and take responsibilities in their environments. Most of all leaders see themselves as leaders.

Based on this model, there are three tracks that students can choose from to guide their conference experience: Leading Self, Leading Others, and Leading Forward. This year we will also be breaking those tracks down further through leadership development. Students can identify and practice their skills as emerging, intermediate, or experienced leaders.”

 
 

LEAD Conference 2026 - Coming Soon!

Call for Conference Presentation Proposals

NT40 and The Center for Leadership Development invite proposals at the beginning of each semester for their upcoming leadership conference. We look forward to collaborating with members of the UNT community to create a dynamic and impactful conference experience.

Who can present?

Proposals are welcome from UNT alumni, faculty, staff, and students.

What to Expect

Selected presenters will deliver two 25-minute presentations during a single session block. The conference will include two to three session blocks, offering multiple opportunities to share ideas and engage with participants.

Presentation Topics

A wide range of leadership-related topics are encouraged. If you’re unsure how your topic fits the conference theme, our team is happy to help you make that connection, just reach out. A few examples may include: 

  • Ethical Leadership
  • Value-Based Leadership
  • Effective Team Work
  • Leading with Purpose
Who can attend?
We welcome UNT alumni, faculty, staff, and students.
What should I wear?

We recommend smart casual or business casual for conference! Also bringing a sweater or jacket the rooms may be cold.

What does the conference schedule look like?

The schedule for 2026 is coming soon. Here is a glance back at the 2025 schedule.

Conference Schedule at a Glance:

  • 9:30 am: Check-in for participants
  • 10:00 am: Welcome and Ice Breaker
  • 10:50 am: Breakout Session One
  • 11:25 am: Breakout Session Two
  • 11:50 am: Lunch
  • 12:20 pm: Keynote: Asiah Claiborne
  • 1:20 pm: Breakout Session Three
  • 1:45 pm: Breakout Session Four
  • 2:20 pm: Leadership Activity
  • 2:50 pm: Closing

Questions: Connect with NT40, NT40@unt.edu.

 
 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Tricia Rodriguez at tricia.rodriguez@unt.edu.