Illinois TRIO Student Leadership Conference
Eastern Illinois University Charleston, IL
June 26-28, 2026
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Welcome from Mattie Y. Payne-Mallory IL TRIO President
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Dear IL TRIO Student Leaders, Professionals, and Guests,
Welcome to the 2026 IL TRIO Student Leadership Conference! We are absolutely thrilled to gather here on the beautiful campus of Eastern Illinois University for a transformative experience dedicated to your growth, empowerment, and collective success.
Our title for this year's conference, “Leaders in Motion: Rooted. Rising. Relentless,” perfectly captures the spirit of who you are. As TRIO students, you do not stand still. You are constantly moving forward, breaking barriers, and reaching for new heights. But true leadership is not just about forward momentum; it is about the foundation that keeps you steady and the community that propels you upward.
This brings us to our powerful 2026 theme: Forward Together: Renewed in Purpose, Rooted in F.A.M.I.L.Y. Over the next few days, we challenge you to dive deeply into what this means for your personal and academic journeys:
● Renewed in Purpose: Take this time to reconnect with your "why." Reflect on the goals that drive you, reignite your passion for excellence, and gain the fresh perspectives needed to overcome any obstacle in your path.
● Rooted in F.A.M.I.L.Y.: In TRIO, family isn't just about blood—it's about the fiercely supportive network of peers, mentors, and advocates who stand by you. We are bound by shared determination, mutual upliftment, and an unbreakable community spirit. When you are rooted in this kind of family, you cannot be shaken.
While you are here at Eastern Illinois University, we encourage you to step out of your comfort zone. Attend the workshops with an open mind, engage fully with our speakers, have fun, and network with fellow leaders from across the state. The connections you build here could very well shape the rest of your professional and personal life. Thank you for bringing your energy, your voice, and your brilliance to this conference. Remember that you are a leader in motion, and together, we are unstoppable. Have an incredible, inspiring conference!
Warmest regards,
Mattie Y. Payne-Mallory IL TRIO President
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Welcome from Maggie L. Burkhead, IL TRIO 2026 SLC Chair
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Dear Student Leaders and TRIO Professionals,
Congratulations on taking the initiative to attend the IL TRIO 2026 Student Leadership Conference! It is my greatest pleasure to welcome each of you to the conference and campus of Eastern Illinois University. We want your time with us to aid in your personal, professional, and academic success.
As Conference Chair, I would like to thank all of the committee members who have done an outstanding job in planning a full agenda for you, keeping in mind the President's theme on leadership, “Leaders in Motion.” I’d also like to give you a glimpse of what you can expect to take place over the next few days. You will have the opportunity to meet and greet other TRIO Students and Professionals in the state of Illinois. You will have the opportunity to have fun and participate in TRIO’s Got Talent, a cookout with activities, recognition of Rising TRIO Achievers, a banquet with a keynote speaker, and the conference dance. However, our priority is your leadership development and promoting academic success. You will have the opportunity to tour the campus and participate in a variety of excellent workshops in the areas of Leadership Development, Financial Aid & Financial Literacy Education, Career Development, Social Emotional Growth & Development, and other personal and Professional Development sessions. I hope that you will take back what you learn to help others who were not able to attend.
Before I close, I would like to once again thank each of you for attending this conference, supporting our association, and shaping our future leaders. You are truly our greatest asset, and we could not accomplish what we do without your support and participation. I would also like to thank EIU President Dr. Gatrell, the Student Success Center, Housing and Dining, Campus Scheduling, Panther Catering, the faculty & staff, and the administration for their support in making this happen. Throughout this conference, I ask you to stay engaged and be proactive. Please be cordial and respect the property, presenters, and your fellow student leadership conference attendees. If there's anything we can do to make your stay more enjoyable, please let us know.
Best Regards,
Maggie L. Burkhead, IL TRIO 2026 SLC Chair
Director of TRIO Student Support Services
Eastern Illinois University
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Conference Committee
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Leaders in MOTION: Rooted. Rising. Relentless.
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Maggie Burkhead Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
Rafael Cooke Moraine Valley Community College - Upward Bound
Phil Davis Moraine Valley Community College - Student Support Services
Elizabeth Harris Moraine Valley Community College - Student Support Services
Mariah Holder Southeastern Illinois College - Upward Bound
Kadarrious Hooks Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
Melanie Olivera-Jones Moraine Valley Community College - Educational Talent Search
Mattie Payne-Mallory Moraine Valley Community College - Student Support Services
Tee Slaton Learning & Development Center - Treasurer
Kiyara Watts Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
Deonte Williams Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
Misty Williams Moraine Valley Community College - Upward Bound
Christin Wittman Joilet Junior College - Student Support Services
Student Committee Members:
Kanyiah Anderson Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
Darriana McCullough Eastern Illinois University - Student Support Services
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Campus Map
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Guide to Meeting Rooms
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Friday, June 26
| 2 - 6 p.m. | Housing Check In {Ford Hall Lobby} Wear your program T-shirt |
| 2 - 6 p.m. | Registration & Mini Career Fair {McAfee Gym} Career Fair ends before 6 pm |
| 2 - 5 p.m. | Campus Informational and Group Tours (various sessions) 45-60 minutes. Last tour departs at 5 pm, weather permitting |
| 3 p.m. & 4 p.m. | ISAC Scholarship Presentations 30-min. sessions McAfee Rm 2621 |
| 4 - 6 p.m. | Outdoor Basketball or Tennis {Courts at Lantz Arena} Weather permitting |
| 5 - 6:15 p.m. | Dinner {Stevenson Dining Center} All with a meal band, must eat at that time |
| 6:30 - 6:55 p.m. | Welcome & Housekeeping {McAfee North Gym} |
| 7 - 8 p.m. | TRIO’s Got Talent {McAfee North Gym} |
| 8 - 10 p.m. | Bowling {Bowling Lanes, lower level of the Union} |
| 8 - 10 p.m. | Activities in McAfee North Gym |
| 10:10 - 11 p.m. | Networking Social & Game Night {Ford Hall Lobby} |
| 11:30 p.m. | Lights Out {Be in your own room} |
Saturday, June 27
| 7 - 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast {Stevenson Dining Center} Wear your conference T-shirt |
| 8 - 9 a.m. | Registration {3rd Floor MLK, Jr. University Union} |
| 9 - 9:50 a.m. | TRIO Alumni Panels {3rd Floor MLK, Jr. University Union} Pre-College in the Charleston/Mattoon Rm; College in the Arcola/Tuscola Rm |
| 10 - 10:50 a.m. | Workshop Sessions #1 {3rd Floor MLK, Jr. University Union} |
| 11 - 11:50 a.m. | Workshop Sessions # 2 {3rd Floor MLK, Jr. University Union} |
| 11:50 a.m. - Noon | Group Photo |
| Noon - 2:15 p.m. | Lunch w/Leadership Activity {7th St. Underground Union} |
| 2:30 - 3:20 p.m. | Workshop Sessions #3 {McAfee Gym} Self-Defense Rm 2120; Yoga Rm 1140 |
| 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Break and Dress for Dinner |
| 6 - 8 p.m. | Banquet w/ Keynote Speaker “Say It With Music” {MLK, Jr. GBR} (Doors open at 5:30 p.m., Dinner starts promptly at 6 p.m.) |
| 8 - 10 p.m. | DANCE {MLK, Jr. University Union, University Ballroom} |
| 8-10 p.m. | Dungeons & Dragons {7th St. Underground} Crafting {Bridge Lounge} |
| 11:30 p.m. | Lights Out {Be in your own room} |
Sunday, June 28
| 7 - 8:30 a.m. | Breakfast {Stevenson Dining Center} |
| 9 - 9:50 a.m. | Awards Ceremony, Evaluations & Conference Closing {STEVO} |
| 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Check Out {Ford Hall Lobby} |
Workshops
Presenter |
Session Title |
Description |
Session Time/Room Assignment |
| Cari Shepherd | Community Stronger Together (Yes, Really): Why Partnerships Are Kind of a Big Deal | This session explores the critical role of community partnerships in creating sustainable, meaningful impact at the local level. Designed for college students who are passionate about service and social change, the presentation emphasizes that lasting transformation does not happen in isolation; it takes collaboration, shared vision, and intentional engagement with the community. | 10 a.m., Greenup Room |
| Amber Webb and Catherine L. Polydore | Anchored in Mentorship: Building Community, Belonging, and Support | Students often rely on strong support systems to navigate the challenges and opportunities of higher education. This interactive session explores how mentorship can serve as an anchor by fostering belonging, encouragement, accountability, and community. lly, personally, and professionally. | 10 a.m., Charleston/Mattoon Room |
| Rhonda Rogers | Before You Graduate: The Internship Strategies That Helped Me Secure Scholarships and a Full-Time Job | During this session, I will share the strategies and resources that helped me earn approximately $14,000 in scholarships and secure a full-time job offer six months before graduating from college. demonstrating a strong work ethic. Participants will leave with practical strategies they can immediately apply as they prepare for graduation and the transition into the workforce. | 10 a.m., Effingham Room |
| Shawn Peoples | The Legacy & Evolution of Historically Black Greek Lettered Organizations | This session explores the history and purpose of Historically Black Greek Lettered Fraternities and Sororities, including the social, cultural, and educational environments that led to their creation. Participants will gain an understanding of the core principles of each organization and examine the evolution of membership intake practices, including the role hazing played in the shift away from traditional pledging. Through this historical lens, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges, transformations, and enduring impact of these organizations. | 10 a.m., Arcola/Tuscola Room |
| Parrish Amos | From Voice to Vision: Building Student Leaders Who Move with Purpose | This interactive leadership session empowers students to recognize the power of their voice, embrace their identity, and lead with confidence in their schools and communities. framework by helping students: | 11 a.m., Arcola/Tuscola Room |
| Jazmine Thompson | You Belong Here: Navigating College with Confidence | College is different from high school—and your first year is an opportunity to discover new strengths, build community, and grow with confidence. | 11 a.m., Charleston/Mattoon Room |
| Khadijah Dee Cooke | Claim It, Lead It, Walk In It: Building Leadership Identity as a TRIO Student | This interactive session helps TRIO students recognize that leadership is not something they have to wait to earn; it is something they can begin practicing now. Through reflection, discussion, and practical leadership exercises, students will explore confidence, identity, self-advocacy, resilience, and purpose. | 11 a.m., Effingham Room |
| CJ Moore | Credit / Wealth Building | Credit & Wealth Building for College Students will equip students with practical tools to make informed financial decisions while preparing for life during and after college. This session will explain how credit works, why credit history matters, and how students can build or repair credit responsibly. | 11 a.m., Greenup Room |
| Maggie Burkhead | The Color of Success | This session is designed to equip students with skills and strategies to make the most of their time. It will also help students understand why it is important to have great time management skills. We want students to have the tools to be rooted in their goals, rise to their capabilities, and relentless achieving their dreams, with better time management. | 11 a.m., Martinsville Room |
| Phil Davis | Budo Martial Arts Foundation. "Empowered to Lead: Self-Defense, Confidence, and Personal Safety for Student Success" | The purpose of this session is to empower participants with the knowledge and awareness needed to navigate everyday situations safely while strengthening their ability to advocate for themselves and others. Participants will learn how personal safety connects directly to academic success, emotional well-being, and leadership development. | 2:30 p.m., McAfee North Gym Rm 2120 |
| Kim White | Rest, Restore, and Renew- A space to exhale | Join us for a deeply restorative experience designed to reconnect your mind, body, and spirit. This 50-minute class begins with 40 minutes of gentle, intentional movement focused on grounding, presence, and nervous system regulation. | 2:30 p.m., McAfee Dance Studio Rm 1140 |
TRIO’S GOT TALENT!
Show us what you’ve got!
Friday, June 26
7–8 p.m.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
7th St Underground
Eastern Illinois University
Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place!
2026
Illinois Student Leadership Conference
at Eastern Illinois University
