Dear Colleagues,

Pack your bags and get ready for Southern hospitality. We are excited to welcome each of you to the ASEE 2026 Annual Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina—the Queen City! We are preparing another great program of papers, posters, distinguished lectures, and special sessions this year, anticipating strong attendance from across the US and around the world. We are very grateful to the ASEE staff and our volunteer leaders for their hard work to make the 2026 conference enlightening, engaging, and inspiring for all attendees.

The Annual Conference is the single largest gathering of the year for ASEE members. For many who attend, it is their best opportunity to share their individual and collective work in engineering education. Whether as part of a formal session or by meeting friends at a social event or in the hallway, participants benefit from opportunities to share with, learn from, inspire, and be inspired by others.

I want to encourage you to make the most of your time at the conference. Step outside your usual circles and attend a session from a division you haven’t explored before, or connect with one of ASEE’s many councils, zones, sections, or committees. Mark your calendar for the plenary sessions and be sure to check out the many panels covering timely and diverse topics in engineering education. Consider coming to Charlotte a bit early so that you can participate in one of the many Sunday workshops or our Career Fair. Get involved in a division that aligns with your interests by attending a business meeting—maybe even consider stepping into a leadership role. And, of course, make time for the Society-wide events, social gatherings, and Exhibit Hall, where you can explore the latest in engineering education technology, programs, and services while expanding your professional networks.

You may also want to allow time before or after the conference to explore the vibrant city of Charlotte. Experience the city’s cuisine—from “Queen City Caviar” (pimento cheese) to “sonker” (deep dish fruit pie). In addition to the excellent restaurants and modern architecture, check out some of Charlotte's attractions, such as the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the vibrant NoDa and South End neighborhoods—or take a short drive to explore the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Charlotte's thriving arts district and numerous breweries also offer great opportunities to unwind and network with colleagues.

I want to close with a huge thank you to each of you for your strong support of ASEE this past year and to ASEE's HQ leadership, staff, and our member volunteers for their extraordinary dedication and service. As we continue advancing engineering education in the 21st century, I am confident that ASEE is well poised to continue its critical leadership role into the future. Thank you for being a part of that collective effort!

See you in Charlotte!

Best,
Christi Patton Luks
ASEE President 2025–2026