When is the LDC held?
The conference is held twice per year, in August and April.
Two-Day
Campus Event
Network
Opportunities
Expert
Keynote Speakers
A unique, valuable component of many of our online graduate business programs is our Leadership Development Conference (LDC). This two-day, on-campus event bridges the gap between online classroom learning and real-world application. Each Leadership Development Conference features a timely theme and allows you to engage with your peers in your program and other graduate business programs in person.
All online graduate students in applicable programs within the College of Business are required to attend this event at least once. Many of our students find the conference to be of enough value that they choose to return for a second conference during the program. The conference is offered twice per year in April and August. OHIO covers the cost of lodging and most meals.
Student Testimonial
-
Build Valuable Personal Connections
Networking | Hands-On Learning
During your Friday and Saturday in Athens, Ohio, you will:
- Learn from world-class speakers who address trending business topics
- Connect with classmates from across the country in business programs at OHIO
- Meet the faculty you've learned from in your online courses
-
Explore Real-World Business Issues
Relevant Discussions | World-Class Speakers
Each LDC theme is different, but you can expect engaging topics such as:
- How to package your experience and degree to make your next career move
- How to apply research to real-world challenges and opportunities
- How to guide and influence others in your organization, providing mentorship and motivation
- How to build inclusive workplaces and organizations
- How to effectively lead businesses and enterprises in today’s modern environment
93% of attendees agree the Leadership Development Conference was a valuable experience, according to OHIO's 2022 April attendee survey.
What are my next steps?
-
Determine When to Attend
We encourage students starting in the spring and summer to attend the LDC in August, and those beginning classes in the fall attend in April to meet faculty, build rapport with classmates and learn tips and tricks for success. Registration deadlines will be sent out closer to the event date.
-
Book Lodging
While the cost of lodging and most meals is covered, you'll make your own reservation at one of the provided hotels. Use the event website or app sent out approximately six weeks ahead of the conference for helpful booking information.
-
Plan Your Trip to Athens
Transportation to/from Athens, Ohio is your responsibility. Make your travel plans well in advance to have the most options and help everything go smoothly.
-
Prepare to Learn and Grow
You'll hear from top speakers and meet many of your online classmates during your two days in Athens. Come to the LDC ready to grow professionally and personally.
Student Testimonial
Answers to Common Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Leadership Development Conference. For information not covered here, contact our admissions team.
How long is the LDC?
The conference is a two-day campus event held on a Friday and Saturday.
Am I required to attend the LDC?
Yes. All graduate students in the following programs are required to attend at least once, although you can attend once more if you're able.
What costs do I need to budget for?
The cost of lodging and most meals is covered by the program. You'll have to budget for your own transportation to and from Athens, Ohio.
-
Your Future Starts Here