The 2026 AMA International Collegiate Conference agenda is packed with ways to level up your next moves—you’ll leave with ideas to improve your chapter, a network (maybe a mentor), and career-boosting opportunities!
- Wednesday, March 11
- Thursday, March 12
- Friday, March 13
- Saturday, March 14
The American Marketing Association reserves the right to amend or remove any information at any time. Please check back periodically for changes!
Wednesday, March 11
All times in CT
2:00 – 8:00 PM
Registration
Whether you’re participating in a Thursday morning activity or just want to beat the rush, check in and pick up your materials on Wednesday!
Competitions Help Desk
Questions about competitions? Ask us here!
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Case Competition Tech Check
Case Team finalists will have the opportunity to test their presentation setup and ensure all technology functions smoothly before the Case Competition begins.
Thursday, March 12
All times in CT
7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Registration
Come check-in, get your badge and more information on the event.
Competitions Help Desk
Questions about competitions? Ask us here!
Self-Care Room
Available throughout the conference if you need a moment of reprieve; please inquire at AMA Registration for a key.
7:00 – 7:30 AM
Case Competition Tech Check
Case Team finalists will have the opportunity to test their presentation setup and ensure all technology functions smoothly before the Case Competition begins.
8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Marketplace Simulations Competition
Startup a new marketing division for a large, international company. Your goal? Launch a revolutionary new product line. Test your marketing skills in this unknown market. Can you satisfy demanding customers, beat aggressive competitors, and earn big bucks in this innovative marketing simulation?
Sponsored by Marketplace Simulations
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Case Competition Finals
The 2026 Case Competition finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete for First Place, in front of a team of judges. The session is closed to competition finalists only.
Sponsored by Major League Baseball and Deloitte
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Design Lab Marketing Competition
Returning for the third year, the Design Lab Marketing Competition will be a 2-hour engaging session in which teams compete against each other as they design and create a marketing strategy plan. Pre-registration was required.
Sponsored by Polymarket
11:00 AM – Noon
Student Agency Networking Blitz
Does your chapter have a marketing or consulting agency? If so, please make your way to our session for a speed networking and brainstorming event! Two representatives from each chapter will be paired with another duo for 5 minutes to share information regarding their agencies before rotating to meet with a new chapter. Topics such as management strategies, organizational structures, and finances will be discussed. Hope to see you there!
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
T-Shirt Competition Drop-Off
Noon – 2:00 PM
Digital Marketing Competition
The Digital Marketing Competition offers a real-world challenge and chapter teams are asked to create a strategy plan during a 2-hr session. Pre-registration was required.
Sponsored by Minus33 & McGraw Hill
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Host Chapter Meeting
Calling all Host Chapter members! Join us to get prepared for the conference, celebrate your hard work, and receive a big thank-you for helping make ICC possible. Connect with fellow chapter members, get important updates, and kick off the conference with excitement!
3:00 – 4:00 PM
New Faculty Advisor Workshop
Is this your first ICC? Are you a new AMA Faculty Advisor at your university? Join this interactive workshop where experienced advisors—who were once in your shoes—will share practical tips and resources to help you get the most out of ICC. Learn how to prioritize sessions for you and your students, and discover best practices for chapter planning, membership recruitment, programming, marketing, and succession planning. Seasoned advisors are also encouraged to attend and share their insights!
Speaker
Carla Childers, Associate Professor of Marketing, Bellarmine University
2:30 – 4:00 PM
Vice President Roundtable
Vice-Presidents are invited to this exclusive event to network and connect with fellow chapters and provide the AMA with feedback to strengthen our programs and support for the collegiate community.
Speaker
Emilie Morris, Assistant Manager, Collegiate Communities, American Marketing Association
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Social Scramble + T-shirt Exchange
Kick off the fun with this high-energy social event designed to help you meet new friends and fellow attendees. Trade your chapter’s T-shirt for a new one, snack on some treats, and spark conversations with gamified networking. It’s the perfect way to connect, swap stories (and shirts!), and walk away with new friends—and maybe even some prizes!
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Faculty Advisors Reception
Kick off ICC by connecting with fellow AMA Faculty Advisors! This is your chance to meet peers from other universities, exchange insights, and start the conference on a high note.
Sponsored by: Enterprise Mobility and Digital Marketing Institute (DMI)
5:30 – 6:20 PM
Parade of Chapters Line Up
Parade participants, please make sure your chapter is accounted for in the lineup. Arrive by 5:50 PM.
6:30 – 8:00 PM
Opening Kick Off With Jade Walters – How to Design Your Dream Career
We’ll kick off the 48th International Collegiate Conference in a big way with our Opening Ceremony, featuring the beloved Parade of Chapters—a celebration of our incredible collegiate community from across the globe. Following the parade, we’ll hear from our keynote speaker, Jade Walters, founder of the early-career resources platform The Ninth Semester.
Is it ever too “early” to start your career? Maybe you’re already building it without even realizing it. From class grades to internships to leaving spaces that no longer serve you, every choice shapes your future. In her keynote, Jade shares how her nonlinear path led her to take ownership of her career and create her dream job—while offering practical strategies to help you intentionally design a career that truly excites you.
Speaker
Jade Walters, Founder/Employer Branding Consultant, The Ninth Semester
8:00 – 8:30 PM
Perfect Pitch Info Session
Participating in Perfect Pitch? This session covers what to expect, important details, and a Q&A to ensure you’re fully prepared.
8:00 – 10:00 PM
Chapter T-Shirt Competition Voting
The Chapter T-Shirt Competition invites chapters to design and showcase a shirt that represents their chapter/university spirit, and students attending ICC will have the opportunity to view and vote on the winning Chapter T-shirt. Make sure you cast your vote in Cvent- just remember, you cannot vote for your own school’s T-shirt. Winners will be announced Saturday night!
Rewind, Remix, Relive with Dj Pdogg
Get ready for AMA ICC’s electrifying Rewind-Remix-Relive concert featuring Dj Pdogg! This isn’t just a conference event; it’s a movement igniting connections through a unique live DJ experience that masterfully blends nostalgic throwbacks with the hottest new sounds. Prepare to be part of a unified community, leaving with unforgettable energy from a truly can’t-miss musical celebration!
Dj Pdogg Vibe Check | Submit Song Requests
Friday, March 13
All times in CT
8:00 – 8:30 AM
Perfect Pitch Judging Meeting
Don’t miss the Perfect Pitch Judges Check In. We’ll cover judging instructions, key competition judging reminders and ensure judges are ready to go for their competition assignment.
8:00 – 9:15 AM
Faculty Research Presentations (AM Session)
Faculty presentations will include extended abstracts and full papers. All full papers will undergo a peer review process. The proceedings of accepted papers and extended abstracts will be published digitally on the AMA website.
8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Collegiate Chapters Council Lounge
A dedicated space for competition judges and council members to connect, relax, and recharge.
Registration
Come check-in, get your badge and more information on the event!
Self Care Room
Available throughout the conference if you need a moment of reprieve; please inquire at AMA Registration.
8:30 – 9:00 AM
Mandatory Competitors Meeting for Marketing Strategy Competition
All AM and PM Marketing Strategy Competition Student Teams must attend this mandatory competition briefing for final instructions and important reminders.
9:00 – 9:30 AM
Marketing Strategy (AM) Competition Judge Meeting
Marketing Strategy Judges- we’ll cover judging instructions, key competition judging reminders and ensure judges are ready to go for their competition assignment.
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
From Classroom to Career: How to Pivot, Grow & Succeed
Discover how embracing growth and career mobility can unlock limitless opportunities! Join us for an engaging panel discussion, proudly sponsored by Enterprise Mobility, featuring a diverse lineup of industry leaders—including panelists from beyond Enterprise Mobility—who will share their personal stories of navigating various career paths. Gain valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration to chart your own journey in today’s dynamic workforce. Whether you’re exploring possibilities or taking your first steps, this event will empower you to shape a future that’s uniquely yours. Don’t miss it!
Sponsored by Enterprise Mobility
Speakers
Gabriella Valiente, Media Strategist, Kargo
Alex Dutton, Director Talent Acquisition, Sony Music Entertainment
9:00 AM – Noon
Perfect Pitch Competition
Competitors, showcase your best self in a quick, 90-second interview designed to highlight why you’re the right fit for the role.
9:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Marketing Strategy Competition (AM Round)
The Marketing Strategy Competition levels the playing field for all schools, big and small, to challenge your wit, speed and presentation skills. This one is all about using your knowledge and experience to react quickly to come up with a case solution. You have the option of participating in this morning session, or during the afternoon session starting at 1:45 p.m.
9:15 – 9:30 AM
Undergraduate Research Poster Set-up
Undergraduate students will check in & set up their poster presentations from 9:15 – 9:30 AM. Round 1 Preview & Judging will begin at 9:30 AM and conclude at 10:30 AM.
9:30 – 10:30 AM
Undergraduate Research Preview and Judging (Round 1)
Kick off the Undergraduate Research Competition by showcasing your work to industry and academic judges! Presenters will have the opportunity to discuss their projects, answer questions, and make their first impression during Round 1 judging.
10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
ICC Career Fair
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with recruiters from around the country!
Skill-Up Stations
Interview Tips & Tricks | Gartner
Elevate Your Story: Crafting & Perfecting Your Personal Brand | Enterprise Mobility
Optimizing Your Resume | WVU John Chambers School of Business & Economics
Why Grad School is Possible | Purdue University Daniels School of Business
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Marketing Ed Session #1: Business of Luxury
The session examines how high-end brands create enduring value through savoir-faire, heritage, and exceptional craftsmanship. It explores how luxury maisons preserve their legacy while evolving their storytelling to remain culturally relevant. The topic highlights the emotional power of narratives, symbols, and traditions in building desire and brand prestige. It also considers the role of exclusivity, scarcity, and refined experiences in shaping consumer perception. Finally, it explores the various sectors within luxury from high-end watches, high jewelry, fashion, hospitality and many more. The repeating session occurs on Friday, March 13th from 10:15am-11:15am CT and repeats on the same day at 11:30-12:30pm CT.
Speaker
Roop Virk, Professor, Luxury and Brand Management, Savannah College of Art and Design
Marketing Ed Session #2: IS THIS THING ON? Growing your digital family the TPA way
This session explores how Tampa International Airport (TPA) has grown its digital family by creating engaging social media content. TPA is the most followed large U.S. airport on social media when comparing passengers to followers across four platforms. Using real case studies, we’ll break down viral moments, what made them work and how strategic storytelling can turn an audience into an active community.
Speaker
CJ Johnson, Communications Manager, Tampa International Airport
Marketing Ed Session #3
Marketing Ed Session #4: Momentum Over Maps: Lessons From My Unpredictable Career Journey
In this session, Alex Dutton, Director of Experienced Hire Talent Acquisition at Sony Music Entertainment, shares an honest and energizing look at what it really takes to build a meaningful career—especially when your path is anything but straight. Alex’s journey into the music industry didn’t follow a blueprint. As he often says, “it’s been a winding road.” Through unexpected turns, moments of uncertainty, and opportunities he never saw coming, Alex learned how to move forward with purpose even when the path wasn’t clear. In this session, he’ll explore how momentum, curiosity, and authenticity shaped his career, and how they can shape yours too. Marketing students will get an inside look at Sony Music Group: who we are, how we work, and what makes our culture unique. Alex will break down the wide range of teams that bring the music ecosystem to life, highlight what early‑career talent can expect when stepping into the industry, and share practical insight into what companies like Sony Music look for when hiring the next generation of creators, marketers, builders, and innovators.
Speaker
Alex Dutton, Director Talent Acquisition, Sony Music Entertainment
11:00 AM – Noon
Undergraduate Research Oral Presentations (Final Round)
Experience the best of undergraduate research! The top finalists will deliver dynamic, six-minute presentations highlighting their research insights and discoveries. Come support these emerging scholars as they compete for top honors in the final round.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Marketing Ed Session #1: Business of Luxury
The session examines how high-end brands create enduring value through savoir-faire, heritage, and exceptional craftsmanship. It explores how luxury maisons preserve their legacy while evolving their storytelling to remain culturally relevant. The topic highlights the emotional power of narratives, symbols, and traditions in building desire and brand prestige. It also considers the role of exclusivity, scarcity, and refined experiences in shaping consumer perception. Finally, it explores the various sectors within luxury from high-end watches, high jewelry, fashion, hospitality and many more. The repeating session occurs on Friday, March 13th from 10:15am-11:15am CT and repeats on the same day at 11:30-12:30pm CT.
Speaker
Roop Virk, Professor, Luxury and Brand Management, Savannah College of Art and Design
Marketing Ed Session #2: IS THIS THING ON? Growing your digital family the TPA way
This session explores how Tampa International Airport (TPA) has grown its digital family by creating engaging social media content. TPA is the most followed large U.S. airport on social media when comparing passengers to followers across four platforms. Using real case studies, we’ll break down viral moments, what made them work and how strategic storytelling can turn an audience into an active community.
Speaker
CJ Johnson, Communications Manager, Tampa International Airport
Marketing Ed Session #3
Marketing Ed Session #4: Momentum Over Maps: Lessons From My Unpredictable Career Journey
In this session, Alex Dutton, Director of Experienced Hire Talent Acquisition at Sony Music Entertainment, shares an honest and energizing look at what it really takes to build a meaningful career—especially when your path is anything but straight. Alex’s journey into the music industry didn’t follow a blueprint. As he often says, “it’s been a winding road.” Through unexpected turns, moments of uncertainty, and opportunities he never saw coming, Alex learned how to move forward with purpose even when the path wasn’t clear. In this session, he’ll explore how momentum, curiosity, and authenticity shaped his career, and how they can shape yours too. Marketing students will get an inside look at Sony Music Group: who we are, how we work, and what makes our culture unique. Alex will break down the wide range of teams that bring the music ecosystem to life, highlight what early‑career talent can expect when stepping into the industry, and share practical insight into what companies like Sony Music look for when hiring the next generation of creators, marketers, builders, and innovators.
Speaker
Alex Dutton, Director Talent Acquisition, Sony Music Entertainment
12:30 – 1:15 PM
Sales Competition Judging Meeting and Lunch
Sales Judges, join us for an important pre-competition meeting over lunch.
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Student Lunch
Join us for the Student Lunch, exclusively for students to grab a bite, network with fellow attendees, and recharge for the rest of the program!
Specialty Faculty Luncheon
Join us for a faculty luncheon sponsored by the Digital Marketing Institute!
The Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) is the world’s leading global certification and professional body for the digital marketing industry. With a steadfast commitment to closing the global digital skills gap, we empower marketing professionals and aspiring marketers to achieve their full potential in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Our mission is to set the global standard in digital marketing education and certification, equipping learners with the knowledge and expertise they need to thrive in their careers.
Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry: At DMI, we recognize that the digital marketing industry is rapidly changing, and with it, the skills and knowledge required to excel. Our unique approach combines insights from academia and industry to create programs that not only meet today’s market demands but also anticipate tomorrow’s challenges. Our Global Academic Advisory Council and Global Industry Advisory Council play a pivotal role in shaping our offerings. These councils are composed of thought leaders, industry experts, and academics from the likes of Hubspot, Google, IBM, and Meta. By working closely with these councils, we gain a comprehensive understanding of how digital marketing is taught in higher education, as well as the industry connections and insights that universities and students need to succeed.
Elevating Higher Education and Student Employability: Informed by the needs of academia and industry, DMI collaborates with universities worldwide to develop accreditation and certification programs that enhance the value of higher education while also supporting professors, like yourself, to maintain their program’s relevancy in an industry that’s ever changing. Our partnerships help institutions elevate student employability by equipping graduates with in-demand skills and certifications recognized by employers globally. Through these programs, universities can integrate DMI certifications into their curriculum, providing students with dual benefits: an academic qualification and a professional certification. This dual advantage significantly increases the value of higher education programs and ensures students are career-ready upon graduation.
Dual Certification with the American Marketing Association: As part of our commitment to delivering the best in professional development, DMI offers dual certifications with the American Marketing Association (AMA). This collaboration combines DMI’s expertise in digital marketing with the AMA’s reputation as a leader in traditional marketing. Learners who complete our certification programs, or one of our University Partner’s accredited programs, earn credentials from both organizations, giving them a distinct competitive edge in the global job market. Our Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) program is a dual-certification with the AMA’s PCM in Digital Marketing. Also, our partners who accredit their programs to our Certified Digital Marketing Associate program their students become dual-certified in the AMA’s Associate PCM in Digital Marketing. A Global Standard in Digital Marketing Education: DMI is proud to set the global standard for digital marketing education. Our programs are trusted by universities, businesses, and individuals in over 135 countries. By aligning academic needs with industry expertise, we ensure our certifications are not only valuable but also practical and impactful.
Get in Touch: If you would like to explore how your students can become dual-certified by the AMA and DMI while taking one of your classes, get in touch with us today!
1:30 – 2:00 PM
Undergraduate Research Poster Viewing
Final poster viewing for undergraduate research participants.
1:30 – 4:45 PM
Marketing Strategy Competition (PM Round)
The Marketing Strategy Competition levels the playing field for all schools, big and small, to challenge your wit, speed and presentation skills. This one is all about using your knowledge and experience to react quickly to come up with a case solution. You have the option of participating in this afternoon session, or the morning session starting at 9:00 AM.
1:30 – 5:30 PM
Sales Competition
Compete head-to-head against fellow marketing students, putting your skills to the test as you demonstrate your ability to successfully close a sale.
Sponsored by Insight Global
1:45 – 2:30 PM
Chapter Leadership 1: How To Become a Top Small Chapter
Learn strategies and best practices from successful small chapters! This session covers how to maximize impact, engage members, and achieve recognition—even with limited resources.
Chapter Leadership 2: Communications
Effective communication is key to chapter success. Explore tips for promoting events, keeping members informed, and building your chapter’s brand on campus and beyond.
Chapter Leadership 3: Fundraising
Discover creative and practical fundraising strategies to support your chapter’s programs and events. Learn how to plan, execute, and sustain fundraising efforts that make a real impact.
Chapter Leadership 4: How to Become a Top Chapter
Take your chapter to the next level! This session highlights the habits, programs, and leadership approaches that distinguish top-performing chapters nationwide.
2:00 – 3:15 PM
Faculty Research Presentations (PM Session)
Faculty will showcase their research through extended abstracts and full papers. All full papers will undergo a peer review process, and the proceedings of accepted papers and abstracts will be published digitally on the AMA website.
2:45 – 3:30 PM
Chapter Leadership 5: Case Competition
Join the Case Co-Chairs as they share key insights, best practices, and tips to help your chapter prepare for a future case competition.
Chapter Leadership 6: How to Become Chapter of the Year
Discover the strategies and best practices that set top chapters apart. This session will guide you through the key elements of a strong chapter of the year’s leadership, impact, innovation, and engagement. Hear from past winners as they share helpful insights to help your chapter rise to the top.
Chapter Leadership 7: E-Board Leadership/Chapter Planning
Gain helpful insights and tools to strengthen your chapter’s foundation. This session covers practical strategies for team collaboration, event planning, and member engagement – learn how your executive board can set clear goals, stay organized, and lead with purpose throughout the year.
Chapter Leadership 8: Becoming International Top Small Chapter of the Year
3:45 – 4:30 PM
Chapter Leadership 9: Community & Social Impact
Learn how to create meaningful initiatives that make a difference on campus and in your community. This session explores service projects, partnerships, and strategies to boost your chapter’s social impact.
Chapter Leadership 10: Membership
Build a thriving chapter by attracting and retaining members. Discover effective recruitment techniques, engagement strategies, and ways to keep members motivated and involved year-round.
Chapter Leadership 11: Professional Development
Empower your members with skills for career success. This session covers programs, workshops, and experiences that prepare students for professional growth and leadership opportunities.
Chapter Leadership 12: Annual Report
Learn how to showcase your chapter’s accomplishments and impact. This session covers tips for compiling, presenting, and leveraging your annual report to highlight achievements and plan for the future.
6:00 – 7:15 PM
Awards Ceremony & Keynote with Sean Greenwood
Speaker
Sean Greenwood, Grand Poobah of Public Relations, Ben & Jerry’s
9:00 – 10:00 PM
Bingo!
Join us for a fun-filled Bingo Night! This is your chance to relax, meet other attendees, and win some super cool prizes. Both students and advisors are welcome to play—no experience needed, just bring your energy and a little luck.
Saturday, March 14
All times in CT
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Self Care Room
Available throughout the conference if you need a moment of reprieve; please inquire at AMA Registration.
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Registration
Even on the final day, we’re here to help! Stop by registration on Saturday to pick up materials, ask questions, or check in for any last-minute sessions.
8:15 – 8:45 AM
Sales Competition Judge Meeting
Join fellow judges to review criteria, expectations, and scoring for the Sales Competition.
Perfect Pitch Judge Meeting
Meet with other judges to go over guidelines and scoring for the Perfect Pitch Competition.
8:45 – 9:30 AM
Marketing Strategy Judge Meeting
Judges, join us to review scoring guidelines, expectations, and key criteria for evaluating the Marketing Strategy Competition.
9:00 – 10:00 AM
Ed Workshop #1: The Buzzword Era is Over
Marketing isn’t about being seen, it’s about being felt. Subtitle: Why ‘Culture,’ ‘Authenticity,’ and ‘Community’ mean nothing if you don’t understand people. Description: Modern day marketing isn’t losing it’s effectiveness, it’s losing humanity. In marketing, words like culture, authenticity, and community get thrown around so often they’ve lost their meaning. This discussion challenges that, and replaces buzzwords with something more powerful: real human insight. In this session, Chris Peay breaks down why marketing today is more about being felt, rather than seen. Using real-world examples from brands, creators, and “culture,” he shows how the most influential marketing doesn’t come from trends or jargon, but from understanding what actually moves people emotionally and behaviorally. Attendees will learn why “culture” isn’t a monolith, why attention doesn’t equal trust, and how to build brands that people don’t just notice, but believe in. This talk equips graduating seniors with a human-first marketing mindset that cuts through noise, earns trust, and drives real impact in crowded industries.
Speaker
Chris Peay, Co-Founder, Cxmmunity Media Co. Protect Your Mental
Ed Workshop #2: Navigating Your Career: Strategies for Success
Are you a marketing student considering your next career move? This session will be hosted by our expert recruiters as well as a former AMA member who is now on our sales team at Gartner.
Join us for this engaging session designed to help you explore the exciting world of career searching! Discover how to kick-start your career search, learn essential tips and tricks for navigating the job market, and find out why sales is one of the fastest-growing fields today.
This session is perfect for students with a marketing background—or anyone curious about sales—who want to understand how their skills can translate into real-world opportunities. Hear from experts at a Gartner-recognized, best-in-class sales company as they guide you through the journey from marketing to sales, sharing insider advice on how to stand out and succeed.
Don’t miss this chance to craft your future and gain valuable insights for launching your career. Mark this event on your AMA ICC 2026 calendar and get ready to take the first step toward a rewarding path in sales!
Sponsored by Gartner
Ed Workshop #3: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence is more than personal empathy or emotional management. It’s the secret ingredient that forges solid and positive relationships, fosters clear communication, elevates leadership, diffuses stress and conflict, and drives cohesive teams to perform beyond the sum of their parts. Candidates with strong emotional intelligence (EQ) will hold a distinct advantage in this new era of work. Let’s explore the benefits of EQ in the workplace, how employers hire for EQ, and more.
Sponsored by Insight Global
Ed Workshop #4
9:00 AM – Noon
Perfect Pitch Competition Finals
Finalists for the Perfect Pitch Competition will have one more opportunity to compete, as judges determine the winners.
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Collegiate Chapters Council Lounge
A dedicated space for competition judges and council members to connect, relax, and recharge.
ICC Career Fair
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with recruiters from around the country!
Marketing Strategy Competition Finals
Finalists for the Marketing Strategy Competition will have one more opportunity to compete, as judges determine the winners.
Skill-Up Stations
Interview Tips & Tricks | Gartner
Optimizing Your Resume | WVU John Chambers School of Business & Economics
9:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Sales Competition Finals
Finalists for the Sales Competition will have one more opportunity to compete, as judges determine the winners.
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Ed Workshop #1: The Buzzword Era is Over
Marketing isn’t about being seen, it’s about being felt. Subtitle: Why ‘Culture,’ ‘Authenticity,’ and ‘Community’ mean nothing if you don’t understand people. Description: Modern day marketing isn’t losing it’s effectiveness, it’s losing humanity. In marketing, words like culture, authenticity, and community get thrown around so often they’ve lost their meaning. This discussion challenges that, and replaces buzzwords with something more powerful: real human insight. In this session, Chris Peay breaks down why marketing today is more about being felt, rather than seen. Using real-world examples from brands, creators, and “culture,” he shows how the most influential marketing doesn’t come from trends or jargon, but from understanding what actually moves people emotionally and behaviorally. Attendees will learn why “culture” isn’t a monolith, why attention doesn’t equal trust, and how to build brands that people don’t just notice, but believe in. This talk equips graduating seniors with a human-first marketing mindset that cuts through noise, earns trust, and drives real impact in crowded industries.
Speaker
Chris Peay, Co-Founder, Cxmmunity Media Co. Protect Your Mental
Ed Workshop #2: Navigating Your Career: Strategies for Success
Are you a marketing student considering your next career move? This session will be hosted by our expert recruiters as well as a former AMA member who is now on our sales team at Gartner.
Join us for this engaging session designed to help you explore the exciting world of career searching! Discover how to kick-start your career search, learn essential tips and tricks for navigating the job market, and find out why sales is one of the fastest-growing fields today.
This session is perfect for students with a marketing background—or anyone curious about sales—who want to understand how their skills can translate into real-world opportunities. Hear from experts at a Gartner-recognized, best-in-class sales company as they guide you through the journey from marketing to sales, sharing insider advice on how to stand out and succeed.
Sponsored by Gartner
Speakers
Natasha Nieves, University Recruiter, Gartner
Ben Taubl, Sales Development Specialist, Gartner
Ed Workshop #3: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence is more than personal empathy or emotional management. It’s the secret ingredient that forges solid and positive relationships, fosters clear communication, elevates leadership, diffuses stress and conflict, and drives cohesive teams to perform beyond the sum of their parts. Candidates with strong emotional intelligence (EQ) will hold a distinct advantage in this new era of work. Let’s explore the benefits of EQ in the workplace, how employers hire for EQ, and more.
Sponsored by Insight Global
Ed Workshop #4
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Case Competition Winners Showcase
The 1st Place winners of the 2026 AMA Collegiate Case Competition will present their winning case. This session is open to all conference attendees. The 2026 AMA ICC Case Competition is co-sponsored by MLB and Deloitte. At the conclusion of the session, we will also announce the sponsor for the 2027 AMA ICC Case Competition!!!
12:30 – 2:00 PM
Lunch on your own
1:15 – 3:30 PM
Alpha Mu Alpha Stole Pick Up
Chapter leaders will be able to pick up their stoles for Alpha Mu Alpha during this time. All stole orders must be in ahead of time (via Alpha Mu Alpha nomination form).
2:00 – 3:15 PM
Marketing in 2030
Marketing is evolving faster than ever, reshaping how work gets done, what skills matter, and what early career paths look like. While AI is disrupting the traditional onramp to a first job, marketing remains one of the most dynamic and high-opportunity fields for those who are future-savvy and adaptable. This session will share key insights and data points from the American Marketing Association’s original research on future marketing trends and marketing jobs and skills. We’ll explore what those preparing to enter the workforce need to know today to succeed in the next five years and beyond, including how AI agents will act on behalf of both consumers and marketers, what new roles are emerging, which skills will set you apart, and the big shifts we’re seeing in team structures and career pathways. You’ll leave with practical guidance on how to evaluate and improve your current use of AI, as well as concrete steps you can take now to stand out, stay relevant, and get ahead in the next era of marketing careers.
Speaker
Jen O’Brien, Director, Research and Innovation, American Marketing Association
Swipe Right: The Marketing Edition
AMA invites you to an exclusive, high-impact face-to-face discussion designed to give you direct, professional access to influential marketing executives and business innovators. This is your chance to gain actionable career advice and industry foresight.
Your participation provides direct access to the strategies and connections that will define your career trajectory. Twelve influential people in marketing will rotate around the room every 8 minutes to discuss and bring possible solutions to some of the most important topics for undergraduates in marketing.
Sign Up Required! Space is extremely limited—only 120 student leaders can attend. Sign-up is located in the event app closer to the event. Secure your seat and invest in your future!
Speakers
Delonia Minor-Cooley, Professor of Marketing, Texas Southern University
Loran Jarrett, Instructor in the School of Marketing and Innovation in the Muma College of Business, University of South Florida
2:00 – 3:30 PM
Sales Showcase: Tips, Tricks, and Interactive Sales Session
Sales Showcase is an interactive, high-energy experience designed to help you explore exciting opportunities in sales while putting your skills to the test.
The session kicks off with expert insights and practical strategies from industry leaders, then shifts into live sales challenges where students can showcase their communication, creativity, and persuasion skills. Top performers will walk away with prizes, plus valuable connections with companies eager to meet emerging sales and marketing talent.
3:30 – 4:30 PM
Level Up Your Network: College to Career Connections
Graduating Seniors: You’ve worked hard, and now it’s time to celebrate what’s next. If you’re graduating this upcoming summer, spring, or fall, join us for a high-energy networking event where you’ll connect with professional marketers from across the country, build LinkedIn connections to kickstart your career, and activate your one free year of AMA professional membership to stay connected to a local chapter and access career resources after graduation.
Plus, when you activate your membership, you’ll receive your FREE AMA graduation cord and tassel on-site.
Speakers
Stephen Brent May, Founder, One Foot Over
Kimberly Strong, National Account Director, UpSwell Marketing
4:00 – 6:00 PM
Faculty Meet and Greet
Sponsored by Digital Marketing Institute (DMI)
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Council Reception
This reception is closed to the AMA Collegiate Chapters Council members (current and former), special guests, and AMA Support Center Staff.
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Chapter Awards and Dinner Banquet
Celebrate a year of excellence with the Conference Co-Chairs, Collegiate Chapters Council, and AMA Support Center! Join us as we honor AMA Collegiate Chapters for their outstanding achievements and recognize individual award recipients. Let’s come together to celebrate, connect, and close out the 2026 AMA ICC in style! Business or evening attire required.