CONFERence buddy program

Conference organizers are excited to announce the return of the OpenEd Conference Buddy Program!

Apply by September 15th to participate.

Apply Now

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Open Education Conference Buddy Program is a networking program designed to enhance the conference experience by fostering meaningful connections between attendees before, during, and after the event. This structured yet flexible program pairs attendees with fellow participants to facilitate knowledge sharing, mentorship, collaboration and professional relationship building.

WHO SHOULD Apply?

This program is open to all OpenEd26 conference attendees and is particularly valuable for:

  • New attendees seeking to build their professional network in open education

  • Returning participants looking to deepen existing connections

  • Anyone interested in mentorship opportunities (both as mentors and mentees)

  • Virtual attendees wanting to engage more meaningfully with the conference community

NOTE: Buddy “matches” will be made depending on enrollment numbers, and therefore application for the Buddy Program does not guarantee participation.

KEY DATES:

  • September 15: Application Deadline

  • September 20: Pre-Conference Pairing Decision Participants will be notified of their Buddy

  • October: First Buddy Meeting (date to be decided by buddy pairs)

  • October 15, 3pm EST: Conference Buddy Kickoff Session (online & optional)

  • October 27-29: OpenEd26 Conference

  • November: Final Buddy Meeting (date to be decided by buddy pairs)

HOW IT WORKS:

BEFORE THE CONFERENCE

  • Apply for the program by September 15th. The information you provide will be used to match participants in pairs (i.e. Buddies).

  • Introduction: Once pairings are made, participants will receive an introductory email.

  • Meeting: Buddies are encouraged to schedule a brief 15-30 minute virtual meet-up before the conference to get acquainted.

DURING THE CONFERENCE

Mentors are expected to support their buddy throughout their conference experience. Both participants are also encouraged to help with networking and other conference activities.

Expected:

  • Foster a welcoming experience for all

  • Facilitate introductions

  • Mentors: Provide support navigating the conference

  • Mentees: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Engage curiously!

Encouraged:

  • Complete optional activities from a shared list

  • Attend networking events

  • Take and share notes with your Buddy

AFTER THE CONFERENCE

Schedule a final virtual meeting to reflect on their experience, share key learnings, and discuss actionable takeaways from the event.

QUESTIONS?

Contact us at contact@openeducationconference.org with questions.

APPLY NOW