The 2026 Global Learning Conference: Gearing Up for a World of Connection
Hosted each spring at the International Center by the Global Learning Hub, the Global Learning Conference is a powerful place of innovation for higher education. This year’s theme centered around “Developing as Compassionate Global Leaders,” as students came together to further enhance their professional skills and meet new people. With an inclusive audience, the conference attracted UC Davis undergraduate and graduate students, as well as students from Chico State, Fresno State, Santa Clara University, Las Positas College, and UC Merced. Through an inspiring keynote, engaging presentations and a small raffle with fun prizes, a wide range of academic topics related to global leadership and collaboration were explored.
Student Takeaways
The unique perspective of each attendee tells the story of how people with different backgrounds can share a common passion for global learning and travel. Through a welcoming atmosphere and attentive speakers, the conference quickly became a hub for networking and growth.
With a background in health equity and community-based work, Bridget Haydu registered for this event to further her hands-on work in the medical field. In a place where cultural acceptance and team mobilization are essential skills, her experience in nursing has set the stage for her driving passion for healthcare equity all around the world. Working toward her Doctor of Nursing Practice in the Family Nurse Practitioner program here at UC Davis, Bridget was able to apply her past fieldwork to all sessions she attended throughout the day.
Having already visited several countries in sub-Saharan Africa, she learned at the Global Learning Conference that sustainability and staff engagement are central to practical, effective healthcare strategies. She shared,
“What stood out to me was how large, complex problems can be broken down into smaller, actionable steps when the right structure and mindset are applied.”
Related to this year’s theme, Bridget further reinforced her leadership skills by attending a session on “Designing Impactful Community Development Projects,” led by former and current USAID (United States Agency for International Development) officers. This conference helped strengthen her resilience and clarify her long-term goals.
From an undergraduate perspective, the Global Learning Conference helped lay the foundation for future study abroad adventures, too. Celeste Valdivia, a third-year double major in International Relations and Economics, enjoyed the many eye-opening opportunities the conference offered her. After growing up in Peru and moving back to the United States at 16, she has developed a familiarity with interconnected cultures that has motivated her to participate in several Global Affairs programs.
Held at the beginning of spring quarter, she found the conference to be the perfect segue into her summer plans in South Africa. Excited to embark on the Economic Development study abroad program this June, she felt the experience gave her the confidence to succeed in both Cape Town and Stellenbosch. Meeting peers with similar global aspirations has prepared her to work with a diverse, well-rounded cohort. She stated,
“This experience reminded me why I love my major and helped me feel more prepared for my upcoming study abroad program. Caring about other people and countries not only makes you a better human being, but helps you grow as a professional.”
The Conference’s Broader Impact
Overall, the 2026 Global Learning Conference was highly impactful for attendees with diverse academic backgrounds. It allowed individuals to explore their own personal goals while adding a positive layer of global empowerment. Delving into topics like workplace identity and building a purpose-driven career, the conference touched on everything from environmental preservation to business and entrepreneurship.
With a unique itinerary and diverse learning options, attendees were encouraged to choose the tracks that most interested them and engage with representatives from different workforce fields. Through this open yet structured design, participants developed their own personal goals from this experience. An annual event that combines exploration with enthusiasm for worldly scholarship, the Global Learning Conference is the ideal place to make new friends and further one’s global connections.