Future Summit 2026
A campus wide event designed to help our stakeholders and community understand where we are, and where we’re headed next as part of the Tarleton State Forward 2030 strategic plan.
The Future Summit brings together faculty, staff, students, and community partners for forward looking conversations on the issues that matter most to Tarleton State’s future. Topics featured at the Future Summit were informed directly by campus feedback gathered through the Strategic Plan Prioritization Survey and represent the themes our stakeholders identified as critical for our future.
Next Future Summit
Thursday, February 26, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CT
Omni Fort Worth Hotel
1300 Houston Street
Fort Worth
Short, Engaging Presentations and Shared Dialogue
Topics Include:
- Trends Shaping Higher Education and Tarleton State
- Strengthening Student Success
- Workforce Alignment
- Ideas to Spur Innovation and Engagement
- Refining Priorities Over the Next 5 Years
Keynote Speakers
Navigating the Changing Landscape of Intercollegiate Athletics
Oliver Luck
Chairman, Altius Sports Partners
The national conversation around the rapidly evolving collegiate athletics environment highlights issues such as student‑athlete well‑being, NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), conference realignment, and the financial sustainability of athletic programs, all of which are reshaping how universities approach competition, recruitment, and institutional identity. This talk will offer insight into the shifting dynamics of collegiate athletics and how Tarleton State can position itself for long‑term success—balancing competitiveness, compliance, student‑athlete support, and institutional mission.
Tarleton State’s Role in Powering Texas’ Workforce of Tomorrow
Lindsey Beagley
Director, Lifelong University Engagement – Arizona State University
By 2034, there will be more people over the age of 65 than under 18 for the first time in U.S. history. This talk explores how designing for multigenerational campuses is both a strategic institutional growth opportunity and a civic responsibility of the university, preparing students for age-diverse workplace while harnessing the knowledge, experience, and engagement of older adults to strengthen lifelong learning opportunities for all.
How Tarleton State University Can Strengthen the Health of Our Rural Communities
Dr. Jonathan Nedrelow
Chief Medical Officer, Cook Children’s
As the state continues to experience rapid population growth, rural provider shortages, and evolving care delivery models, Tarleton has a unique opportunity to expand its impact through innovative programs, interdisciplinary training, and community-based partnerships. This thought‑provoking talk will spark ideas around how Tarleton State can help shape the future of healthcare in Texas—through academic programs, our proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, research, clinical partnerships, and workforce development strategies that meet the needs of the rural communities in Texas.
How AI Can Transform Learning, Work and Innovation at Tarleton State
Dr. Vincent Kellen
Chief Information Officer, The Texas A&M University System
From personalized learning to operational efficiency to new research frontiers, Artificial Intelligence presents both extraordinary opportunities and important ethical considerations. This bold talk will challenge participants to imagine how Tarleton State can responsibly and creatively leverage AI— optimizing workflows and productivity, enhancing teaching, improving student success, and preparing graduates for an AI‑driven world.