Salesforce.org Kicks off the 5th Annual Higher Ed Summit Convening Top Global Leaders in Education to “Innovate Together”

We’re in the midst of one of the most transformative shifts in history. The development of new technologies are disrupting nearly every industry—including education. It’s more important than ever that these institutions leverage technology and work together as a community to prepare their students for a 21st century workforce.

That’s why we’re thrilled to kick off our 5th annual Higher Ed Summit, co-hosted by University of Texas System, in Austin, TX. More than 1,500 attendees from more than 450 colleges, universities and partners worldwide will come together to share their successes and inspire innovative solutions to some of education’s most challenging problems. Attendees will also gain a deeper understanding of the digital revolution—both the challenges it presents and the opportunities it affords.

The theme of this year’s Higher Ed Summit is “Innovating Together” to highlight the importance of working as a community for the greater good of educating and preparing our students for the future. In the spirit of this theme, Salesforce.org will host the inaugural Innovation Leadership Forum, a pre-event executive gathering on April 26 that will bring together higher education’s top leadership to discuss education transformation and the critical role technology plays.

Salesforce.org will also host the first-ever Summit Awards for Excellence in Higher Education to honor trailblazers in operational efficiency, student success and innovation. Nearly 1,000 members of the community voted on the winners, which will be announced on April 28. We’ll also host 60+ breakout sessions, 10+ hands-on workshops and 30+ Ted-talk style theater sessions centered around this theme.

In true Salesforce fashion, we also want to give back to the Austin community that has graciously allowed us to host this event in their backyard. Salesforce.org has partnered with College Forward, an Austin-based nonprofit focused, to mentor local students. Nearly 80 students from local high schools and colleges will participate in group mentoring activities, get their resumes reviewed and practice interview skills to prepare them for collegiate success and remunerative careers.

At Salesforce.org, we’re focused on education and workforce development to make sure the next generation has the skills and training needed for the jobs of tomorrow. And we’re looking forward to working with this community of education leaders to determine a path forward together.