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Non-Conference Programming
Non-Conference Programming Budget Submissions are due August 1.
Programs

Expand Your Impact: Submit a Non-Conference Program Proposal

Non-conference programming plays a vital role in the NCHC community—offering members opportunities to learn, engage, hone skills, and share knowledge throughout the year. These programs take place in both in-person institutes and virtual formats, providing flexible professional development for students, faculty, and honors administrators. 

NCHC invites innovative proposals for non-conference programming that engages faculty, staff, and students across our diverse membership. Whether you're addressing long-term needs or responding to urgent, evolving challenges in honors education, there are two types of programming opportunities: Planned Content and Just-in-Time Content. Both offer a chance to shape the future of honors education and connect with a broad community.

Types of Non-Conference Programming

NCHC offers two primary types of non-conference programming:

  1. Planned Content:

    These programs are submitted annually within a set timeframe and scheduled for the upcoming calendar year. Planned Content examples include:

    • Experiential Learning Programs (e.g., Partners in the Parks, Place as Text, Partners in Peace)
    • Summer Institutes (e.g., New Directors Summer Institute, iSPARK)
    • Virtual Events (e.g., workshops, roundtables, institutes)
  2. Just in Time Content:

    These programs respond to time-sensitive topics and emerging needs, allowing for rapid response to challenges in honors education. Examples include:

    • Virtual Honors Community of Practice (HCOP) sessions
    • Town Halls
    • Roundtables on pressing issues
    • Committee or Special Interest Group (SIG) events

Program Proposal Guidelines

Do you have an idea for a program that will engage NCHC faculty, staff, and students? NCHC seeks proposals for programs that address a range of needs across our membership, from two-year and four-year institutions to public and private campuses. Whether virtual or in-person, your programs may span from a few hours to multiple days.

We encourage proposals that align with NCHC's strategic plan, Vision 2028, and the NCHC Shared Principles and Practices of Honors Education, ensuring that each program reflects the needs and values of our diverse membership.

Lifecycle of a Proposal

Proposals for both Planned and Just-in-Time content are accepted through the NCHC Proposal Submission Platform (OpenWater). The submission process follows these steps:

  1. Planned Content Submission Requirements
    • Open Submission Period for Planned Content: March 4 to June 30
    • Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted through OpenWater. Incomplete proposals will not be considered.
  2. Required Proposal Information (both content types)

    When submitting, be sure to include:

    • Program Title: A concise and descriptive title.
    • Preferred Dates: While NCHC will strive to accommodate your preferences, date adjustments may occur based on scheduling conflicts or logistical needs.
    • Program Description: A detailed description outlining your program’s objectives, target audience, and anticipated outcomes.
    • Facilitators: Names, titles, and affiliations of all facilitators involved.
    • Budget Details: After acceptance, facilitators will work with NCHC HQ to create a comprehensive budget for the program.
  3. Review and Acceptance Process (Planned Content)
    • After applications have been reviewed and accepted, announcements of acceptance will be made soon after submission.
    • NCHC HQ will begin working with proposal submitters in July to finalize budgets, with a deadline for submission by August 1.
    • Once budgets are reviewed by the Finance Committee and Board of Directors, the approved programming calendar will be announced at the beginning of the new year.

If you’re proposing a program for Partners in the Parks or Place as Text, these programs have established training protocols for facilitators. Proposals for these programs must be vetted by their respective committees before submission to NCHC. Please contact the appropriate committee members:

  • Partners in the Parks: Karen Gergely or Christina McIntyre
  • Place as Text: Sara Quay, Alix Fink, or Salvatore Musumeci

Just-in-Time programs allow NCHC to respond to timely issues impacting honors education. These programs are developed virtually and typically run 60-90 minutes. They offer an opportunity to address emerging needs or urgent challenges, such as:

  • Global Citizenship and Federal Funding Restrictions: How do honors programs maintain a focus on global citizenship and belonging when facing policy changes or funding restrictions?
  • AI in the Classroom: How can honors educators incorporate AI into their teaching practices effectively?
  • Career Paths in the National Park Service: Connecting honors students with NPS staff to discuss career paths and opportunities.

These programs can be a mix of presentations, discussions, and Q&A sessions, providing a timely response to issues faced by honors educators.

Important Submission Deadline Information for Just-in-Time Programs

Proposals for Just-in-Time programs must be submitted at least three months in advance of the planned activity. This ensures sufficient time for proposal review, event logistics, and member communication. Be sure to account for this timeline when planning your proposal submission.

Funding for Just-in-Time Programs

NCHC has allocated funding for facilitators of Just-in-Time programs. Review the facilitator policy (available on OpenWater) to understand available funding and ensure your proposal meets requirements.

Once your program is accepted, facilitators will work directly with the NCHC Events Team to coordinate logistics, communication, and deadlines. For in-person events, NCHC will finalize hotel contracts and ensure all logistical details are arranged by the end of the calendar year.

For virtual events, NCHC will assist with the setup of online platforms and communications.

How to Submit Your Proposal

Whether proposing Planned Content or Just-in-Time Content, we invite you to share your ideas and contribute to the future of honors education. Use the OpenWater platform to submit your proposal.

Submit Your Proposal

For assistance with the submission process or questions about your proposal, contact Jean-Paul Benowitz, Non-Conference Programming Commmittee Chair at benowitzj@etown.edu, or Melissa Berninger, Non-Conference Programming Committee, Past Chair at melissa.berninger@usd.edu.

Need More Information?

We’re here to help! For any questions regarding the proposal process or specific program guidelines, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can also find additional details about our facilitator policy and budgeting guidelines on the OpenWater proposal submissions platform.

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