Admission Counselors

MIDWest Conference 2026 | "Cheese Curds & Conversations"

Register | Registration is open for the 2026 MIDWest Conference in Madison, WI on May 17-19th. Early bird registration is open now through April 27th. This conference is your chance to connect across state lines, share best practices, and walk away with both new insights and relationships—all in an atmosphere as welcoming as a basket of fresh cheese curds (Don’t knock ‘em until you try ‘em!). Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot soon!

Details | Just like Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds—fresh, distinctive, and best enjoyed together—this event will bring professionals from across the admissions field to connect, collaborate, and spark fresh ideas. Mark your calendars and get ready to join us for meaningful dialogue, valuable connections, and, of course, some delicious cheese!

What to expect | Engaging speakers and sessions led by both peers and experts in the field; Networking opportunities that help you build real, lasting connections; Connect with vendors offering solutions to your office’s biggest challenges; Participate in a raffle to win fabulous prizes (proceeds go toward the IDEAS Scholarship – see more below); A welcoming atmosphere filled with MIDWest flavor—inspired by our weekend theme!

Where | Madison, Wisconsin; Madison Concourse Hotel and Governors Club: 1 W Dayton St, Madison, WI 53703 | 800.356.8293

When | Sunday, May 17 – Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Who | YOU!

Accommodations | Book your accommodations at the Madison Concourse Hotel and Governors Club HERE. MIDWest block held through Friday, April 17.

Keynote Speaker | We are excited to announce our keynote speaker, Dr. Christine Whelan, known as the “Purpose Professor”. Please watch this video to get a taste of what she’ll be sharing with us during her keynote address.

Dr. Whelan holds a doctorate from Oxford University and currently serves on the faculty at Emory University and University of Wisconsin – Madison. Dr. Whelan has authored five books, a bestselling Audible Original, and has been a contributor to The Wall Street Journal, the TODAY Show and NPR’s Marketplace, where she brings immediate credibility and fresh insights. You can read more about Dr. Whelan here.

Call for Sessions | Interested in presenting at MIDWest? The conference planning committee is looking for engaging, thoughtful and informative sessions.

Call for Sessions MIDWestACAC 2026 – Fill out form. The session proposal deadline is Tuesday, February 24th.

Raffle | We will once again host our popular raffle for attendees. Proceeds this year will be donated to The IDEAS Scholarship.

While we’re not collecting donations just yet, we encourage you to start thinking about potential raffle items your institution might like to contribute. Ideas could include campus swag, themed gift baskets, local products, gift cards, or anything creative that showcases your school or community.

If you have connections with unique or local businesses or know of organizations that would love the exposure and goodwill, we’d love you to start thinking about those possibilities as well. These partnerships often bring in some of the most memorable raffle items!

We’ll send more information and formal requests for donations as we get closer to May, but for now, please save the date and start gathering great ideas.

Thank you for your ongoing support of WACAC’s IDEAS Scholarship and the MIDWest Conference. We look forward to creating another great experience together!

We look forward to welcoming you for a conference that blends insightful conversations, meaningful connections, and a true taste of Wisconsin.