UCDA 2026 Design Education Summit: Horizon

Expanding boundaries, exploring new possibilities.

The horizon represents both a limit and a possibility—a boundary that invites us to imagine what lies beyond. “Horizon” serves as a metaphor for exploring the future of design education, envisioning the possibilities that await us, and preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

In design research and pedagogy, looking toward the horizon means embracing a forward-thinking approach. It encourages us to investigate emerging trends, speculate on the future of technology and society, and equip the next generation of designers with the tools and mindsets to navigate an ever-evolving world. Whether it’s addressing the implications of artificial intelligence, envisioning sustainable futures, or fostering global collaboration, the horizon reminds us to stay curious and proactive.

Las Vegas, with its reputation as a city of innovation and reinvention, provides a fitting backdrop for this exploration. Hosting the UCDA Design Education Summit at UNLV offers participants the chance to engage in forward-looking discussions and activities that challenge conventional ideas and expand the boundaries of design education. Through thought-provoking presentations, hands-on workshops, and inspiring dialogues, we aim to ignite conversations that shape the trajectory of our discipline.

Join us in Las Vegas as we gaze toward the horizon, discovering new perspectives and opportunities to redefine design education and research for the future.

Event Registration

*If you are a student but not a UCDA member, we recommend that you join UCDA at the Student Rate of $25 before registering for the event to receive the best rate and the benefits of a 12-month UCDA membership. 

NOT A UCDA MEMBER? JOIN NOW FOR DISCOUNTED REGISTRATION!

Registration Cancellations
See UCDA Cancellation Policies

Event Location

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a doctoral degree-granting institution with more than 30,000 students and nearly 4,000 faculty and staff, and has earned the nation’s highest recognition for both research and community engagement from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. UNLV offers a broad range of respected academic programs and is committed to recruiting and retaining top students and faculty, educating the region’s diverse population and workforce, driving economic activity, and delivering high-quality healthcare to Southern Nevadans. 

Located in the heart of Las Vegas, UNLV’s campus is blocks away from the neon lights of the Vegas strip and a short drive from the breathtaking scenic views of Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead, and the Hoover Dam. 

Learn more at unlv.edu.

Travel & Lodging

Lodging

Hyatt Place Las Vegas is ideally located near the UNLV campus, the Thomas & Mack Center, and the Las Vegas Strip. Enjoy a wide array of activities and attractions, including the High Roller observation wheel and Downtown Container Park shopping mall, on the doorstep.

Conveniently located just minutes from Harry Reid International Airport, arrivals and departures are quick and easy for your Vegas stay. (Please note: The hotel does not offer airport shuttle service.)

Your stay includes:

• Complimentary Breakfast served buffet-style: Mon.-Fri., 6:30–9 a.m.;  Sat.-Sun., 7–10:00 a.m.  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Access to pool and fitness center 
• $20 Daily Parking

Book with our UCDA discounted hotel rate! $126/night, May 18-21
Rooms are also available for Sun., May 17, and Fri., May 22, at a rate of $189/night.

UCDA Hyatt Place Las Vegas booking portal

Standard rates apply outside of these dates. To receive the discount and ensure a room, your reservations must be received by the hotel before Friday, Apr. 17, 2026, and booked directly with the Hyatt Place Las Vegas using the booking link below. 

Your hotel stay is not included in the conference registration fee. Attendees are responsible for making their own reservations.

Insider tip: Book your room and flight early!

Room blocks may fill before the hotel deadline and have sold out in recent years, so please make your reservation immediately to ensure availability and the discounted rate.

Air Travel

The nearest airport to UNLV is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), located just 2 miles from campus. The airport offers extensive domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers. From the airport, UNLV is accessible by taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or a short drive.

By Car

UNLV is easily accessible by car via major highways, including Interstate 15 and Interstate 215. The university is located near the Las Vegas Strip, with clear signage leading to campus. 

ABSTRACTS - CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

The Call for Abstracts is NOW CLOSED

There are five (5) formats: Presentation, Panel, Poster, Workshop, and Graduate Student Presentations

Call for Abstracts Information & Specifications

Call for Abstracts Entry Form

The call for proposals will open on Dec. 19, 2025, and close on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026 (Extended to  Friday, Feb. 20, 2026). Presenters will be notified in March 2026. The event schedule and featured speakers will be announced in late April 2026. 

Student Poster Competitions Call for Entries - NOW OPEN!

EVENT SCHEDULE (Tentative)

Preliminary Schedule. Subject to change. Attendees will receive a final schedule via Event Micro-Website and Event Program. 

Contact

Design Education Summit Chairs