Envisioning Justice Conference 2026

“We refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The will to change, to envision a better future for our community and ourselves, begins with a step toward justice. At the Volunteer Action Center, we believe those steps are strongest when taken together. That is why we intentionally create spaces where students, staff, and faculty can learn about the challenges facing our community and collaborate on meaningful solutions.

The VAC’s commitment to justice is why we are excited to invite you to the 2026 Envisioning Justice Conference, taking place February 25–27 across the Arkansas Union. Over three days, attendees will engage in critical dialogues, interactive workshops, and community-building with some of the brightest and most decorated professors, politicians, CEOs, organizations, and student leaders in sessions designed to equip students with the tools to make change now—even if they are unsure where to begin.

Also, attendees will be entered in a raffle to receive a high-quality 2026 Envisioning Justice Conference hoodie as well as some incredible EJC merch!

This year’s conference is grounded in three core pillars:

Ethical, Justice-Centered Service
We move beyond viewing service as a transactional exchange of hours for credit. This theme explores how authentic, ethical service can function as a strategic tool for redistributing power and advancing systemic justice. We center community needs, voices, and expertise, working collaboratively with nonprofit partners in innovative and justice-oriented ways.

Leadership Reimagined in a Changing World
In an evolving political and social landscape, the stakes and responsibilities of leadership have shifted. This theme highlights the renewed purpose of student and community stewardship. Participants will learn from faculty, organizers, and peer leaders who are responding with resilience to complex challenges and forging effective pathways for change.

The Many Faces of Social Change
Social change is not limited to traditional forms of volunteering. While those contributions remain vital, sustainable justice requires a diverse ecosystem of skills. This theme recognizes the wide range of contributions that strengthen our communities—from data analysis and event planning to communications, design, advocacy, and institutional leadership.

Each session below will be labelled with the room location, time, speakers, pillar(s) focused, and if there will be food provided. See you at Envisioning Justice!