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NIRSA Region IV Conference

Corpus Christi, TX • October 21-23, 2026

Become a Presenter at NIRSA Region IV

Preconference Activities

Step onto the water and discover a new way to challenge your balance, focus, and confidence. Balance on the Bay is a stand-up paddleboarding experience designed for all skill levels, combining basic paddling techniques with fun balance challenges on the beautiful waters surrounding Texas A&M, Corpus Christi. Whether you’re stepping on a board for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will test your stability, engage your core, and push you just beyond your comfort zone. Expect a few wobbles, plenty of laughs, and a rewarding experience on the bay. Spots are limited to 8 participants, so register early and see if you have what it takes to stay upright

  • Spaces Available: 8 

Trade the conference room for the shoreline and experience Pilates in a setting that will challenge both body and mind. Sand & Strength combines intentional movement, core-focused exercises, and the natural resistance of the beach to create a workout that is equal parts energizing and empowering. The uneven surface of the sand will test your stability, strengthen supporting muscle groups, and elevate traditional Pilates movements in unexpected ways. Come prepared to move, sweat, and discover new strength while enjoying the coastal scenery of the Islander campus. With only 15 spots available, this session offers a unique opportunity to recharge, refocus, and build strength before the conference begins

  • Spaces Available: 15 

Go beyond the conference sessions and explore the spaces that help shape the Islander experience. Islander Insights offers a guided tour of two cornerstone facilities at Texas A&M–Corpus Christi: the 67,000-square-foot Dugan Wellness Center and the University Center, the hub of campus life. Discover how the Dugan Wellness Center supports student wellbeing through innovative recreation, fitness, and wellness spaces designed to foster engagement and belonging. Then, explore the University Center, a dynamic multi-use facility that serves as the heart of the campus community, connecting students and employees through essential services, gathering spaces, and opportunities for involvement. Throughout the tour, you’ll gain insight into facility design, operational strategies, programming philosophies, and the ways these spaces contribute to student success and campus culture. Whether you’re looking for ideas to bring back to your institution or simply enjoy seeing how other campuses create impactful experiences, this tour offers inspiration around every corner

Meet Your FUEL: Leadership in Action Speakers

Fuel: Leadership in Action is an engaging and dynamic leadership development experience designed to bring key leadership principles to life. This year’s program features five focused presentations that explore essential leadership characteristics and how they can be applied at every level of leadership.

A team of 10 presenters will guide participants through the core concepts of Creativity, Vulnerability, Relationship Building, Grit, and Change, offering practical insights and real-world applications. Each session is designed to help participants better understand how these qualities shape effective leadership and how they can be intentionally developed.

The experience will culminate in an interactive 60–90 minute workshop, where participants will connect these themes, reflect on their own leadership journeys, and leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their impact.

Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned professional, Fuel: Leadership in Action provides the tools and inspiration to lead with purpose and confidence.

Jennifer Speer
Univeristy of Texas at Austin

Eric Maki
Texas Tech University

Jason Vlastaras
Texas State University

Troy Vaughn
University of Arizona

Sheldon Tate
George Mason University

Ken Morton
SFA University

Chris “CMacMcAlpine
University of Texas Dallas

Andy Lemons
University of Texas at Austin

Bonnie Hainline
Southern Methodist University

Natosha Harris
NCAA Officials/ Consultant

New This Year:
Audience-Focused Content

We are excited to introduce a new approach to educational programming at the Region IV Conference. To enhance the attendee experience and provide more meaningful learning opportunities, we are encouraging presenters to develop sessions with a specific audience in mind.

As you prepare your proposal, please be intentional about who will benefit most from your presentation. Consider targeting a particular functional area and/or professional level, such as students, early-career professionals, middle managers, or departmental leaders. While all conference attendees are welcome to attend any session, identifying a primary audience will help participants select experiences that best align with their interests, roles, and professional development goals.

We look forward to receiving submissions that are engaging, relevant, and thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of our diverse Region IV community. Your expertise and insights help create a stronger learning environment for all attendees.

Hotel & Travel

Residence Inn by Marriott Corpus Christi Downtown

309 S. Shoreline Blvd • Corpus Christi, Texas, USA, 78401

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