Cross-University Collaborative Mentoring Conference 2026
Thursday, June 4 – 5, 2026
University of Delaware STAR Campus
540 S. College Ave, Newark, DE 19716
The Cross-University Collaborative Mentoring Conference (CUCMC) is a student-led conference that brings together graduate students, faculty, and community partners across institutions committed to mentorship, collaboration and equity-focused scholarship.
CUCMC provides a supportive, student-centered environment where emerging scholars can present their work, receive constructive feedback and build relationships across universities. The conference emphasizes meaningful mentoring, interdisciplinary dialogue, and the development of research that uplifts youth, families and communities.
Our 2026 theme: Forging Meaningful Partnerships: The Intersection of Research, Mentorship, and Collaboration to Create Equitable Experiences for Children, Youth, Families, and Communities—highlights the importance of shared learning, community engagement and intentional partnerships throughout the research process.
Registration is now open and free to attend. Registration will close on May 15.
Participant Details
All graduate students in a degree-seeking program (i.e., master’s and doctoral students) whose research broadly encompasses facilitating supportive, inclusive and equitable opportunities for children, families and educational communities are eligible to submit a proposal. Students who are accepted must attend with a faculty research mentor who can be affiliated with your university or a different university.
Student Presenters
CUCMC is designed to support developing scholarship. Students may submit theoretical pieces, early-stage projects, community-engaged work, participatory research, or completed research studies. All levels—from early undergraduates to advanced doctoral students—are encouraged to participate.
Faculty & Community Partners
Faculty and community partners are invited to attend, support student presenters, participate in mentoring activities and submit proposals individually or collaboratively.
Hotel & Travel Information:
25th Anniversary – CUCMC 2026 at the University of Delaware
The University of Delaware is proud to host the 25th Anniversary of the Cross-University Collaborative Mentoring Conference (CUCMC). This milestone year reflects CUCMC’s longstanding commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and the development of emerging scholars working to advance equitable outcomes for children, youth, and families.
CUCMC 2026 is being organized by a collaborative team of faculty mentors and graduate student leaders across institutions, grounded in a shared commitment to student-centered learning, leadership, and cross-university partnership.
As we mark this 25th anniversary, the conference will not only celebrate CUCMC’s history and impact, but also look ahead—strengthening partnerships, elevating student leadership, and supporting the next generation of scholars.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the event, please contact William Woelki at woelki@udel.edu. You may also contact your institution’s CUCMC liaison for additional information.