In an era of volatility and declining public trust, resilient brands in higher education are those that combine credibility, culture, and insight to create a sustainable “trust dividend.” This practical, hands-on workshop will help participants diagnose their institution’s current brand resilience, identify risks and quick wins, and explore how lived values and data-informed decision-making can strengthen long-term reputation. Through interactive tools and peer discussion, delegates will leave with a clear framework and actionable steps to build credibility, align culture, and embed insight into their brand strategy.

In a rapidly evolving global labour market, international graduates face increasing challenges in securing roles aligned with their qualifications and aspirations, shaped by immigration policies, employer perceptions, and economic shifts. This campfire will explore key barriers facing today’s international talent; consider how institutions can move beyond traditional careers support by offering holistic, timely guidance on visas, labour markets, and in-country opportunities; and examine how alumni can be strategically integrated into employability initiatives through mentoring, sector insights, networking, and employer advocacy to create impactful global pathways for future graduates.

Universities have global communities and when we want to engage with alumni and donors we’re tempted to get on a plane. But with the climate emergency and increasing acceptance of online meetings (even for making an ask), do we still need to travel? Many would say it’s a balance, and in some cultures there is still no substitute for face-to-face. In this session we will explore the various models - each of which is successful - and talk about what makes them work.

This interactive session, led by experts in internationalisation with several decades of experience at various UK and European institutions, will explore the development of a strong international value proposition—a crucial component of any institutional strategy aiming to achieve growth, diversification, and global engagement. Drawing on experiences from The IC Global Partnership and real-world examples from the University of Leicester and NCUK, the discussion will unpack how a compelling international value proposition can enhance positioning, guide market diversification and align internal stakeholders. Participants will be able to share their own institutional approaches and challenges, and the speakers will share their own experience and practical steps for defining, communicating, and refining an international value proposition The session will conclude with key takeaways, suggested actions, and opportunities to continue the conversation.

During our roundtable: Going Beyond the Gift: The Value of Stewardship and the Impact of Gratitude, we will share the experiences and insights of a small team, and examples of innovative stewardship practices that have solidified donor relationships, and in cases, helped secure major/leadership gifts. We hope to spark a lively conversation, sharing ideas and examples of low-cost, high-impact stewardship ideas so we can all go away inspired!

Have you ever wondered what your philanthropists are thinking before they meet a fundraiser? Have you ever thought deeply about your own giving mindset? Join us for an interactive session where you’ll have the opportunity to be a fly-on-the-wall in hearing about the difference that philanthropists want to make.

Join colleagues from post-1992 institutions to exchange ideas, celebrate achievements and discuss the opportunities of working in dynamic, modern universities. This meetup will be hosted by: • James Wilkinson, Development Executive (Advancement) at Northumbria University • Nicola Conway, Director of Development and Alumni Relations at the University of West London

Come together with colleagues from small and specialist institutions to share ideas on making a big impact with limited resources. Celebrate creativity and innovation. This meetup is hosted by Jo Hutchinson, Director of Corporate Affairs at Guildhall School of Music & Drama and a member of the CASE Europe Regional Council.

Building on their experience of working with business-facing teams at Oxford University to raise funds from corporates, Catherine Blishen, Head of Development Foundations & Corporations and Zoe Lane, Senior Development Executive – Corporations, will lead an interactive participatory session on insights into, and ideas for, joint working between University business-facing, research and development teams to maximise corporate relationships and fundraising success.

“Is Equality Enough?” is a forward-looking session that invites participants to reflect on how far we’ve come - and how far we still need to go. Drawing on insights from Halpin’s sector leading EDI reports and projects including our UK Universities' Response to Black Lives Matter reports, as well as real-world experiences across the sector, this session is a broader discussion on equity, diversity, and inclusion to set the stage for engagement and philanthropy strategies. The session will spotlight what meaningful progress looks like, challenge assumptions around performative equality, and offer space to collaboratively shape inclusive practices that resonate with staff, students, alumni, and donors alike.