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Leadership Development Conference (LDC)

Leadership Development Conference (LDC)

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

“I was skeptical regarding the benefit of attending the conference, but now I would say that the experience is well worth your time. The keynote speakers were on point and up to date with the workplace challenges and offered a new perspective on navigating in a post Covid and cross-generational workforce.”  – Samantha Ferrel, MBAn, Class of 2025 

Samantha Ferrel
  • 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

“I took value from each speaker, each session - learning very valuable information the whole weekend.” – Kevin Romaine, 2023 MSM Graduate

Kevin Romaine

Answers to Common Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Leadership Development Conference. For information not covered here, contact our admissions team. 

When is the LDC held?

The conference is held twice per year, in August and April.

How long is the LDC?

The conference is a two-day campus event held on a Friday and Saturday.

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

    Online Programs

    Apply Now

    Call Us

    740.924.5725

    to speak with a knowledgeable Enrollment Counselor.

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