An objective, strategic digital higher education perspective

At Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo™, explore how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping the future of higher education. From enhancing student experience to building the AI‑enabled university, gain practical insights to modernize your institution and deliver greater value.

Connect with peers and Gartner analysts to navigate disruption, rethink your operating model and turn innovation into measurable outcomes.

Connect with education technology experts and peers

Industry Content

Industry-Specific Sessions:

  • Higher Education: Top Campus Technology Trends Driving Student Experience
  • Education Roundtable: Reinventing the Operating Model for AI and Geopolitical Disruption
  • Hype Cycle for Higher Education, 2026
  • Higher Education: The AI-Enabled University — Predictions, Pathways and CIO Priorities
  • Ask the Analyst: Higher Education Now, Near and Next

With over 300+ sessions, there’s more to explore. Top-trending sessions include:

  • 7 Disruptions You Might Not See Coming: 2026-2031
  • Signature Series: 2027 CIO & Tech Executive Agenda
  • Decision Intelligence: Getting Value From AI Agents and Multiagent Systems
  • Signature Series: CEO Watch 2026
  • Signature Series: Top Strategic Predictions for 2027 and Beyond
  • Signature Series: Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2027
  • Exclusive Member Networking Break
  • What Human Skills Are Needed in the AI Era? What to Protect, Pivot and Purge
  • 2026 Gartner Executive Survey: What the C‑Suite Really Thinks About 
  • How CIOs Are Cutting Costs With AI in 2026
  • The Ripple Effects of AI on Work and Talent
  • Signature Series: Emerging Trends Vision 2027: Human-AI Relationships Will Reshape the World
  • 3 Essential Steps to Evolve Your Operating Model in the Age of AI and Volatility

View the Full Agenda

*Agenda as of June 2025

Industry Networking

Connect with education industry peers - across organizational size and specialty - through a variety of networking gatherings. 

Join large-group keynotes setting the stage for emerging technology and trends, and sessions featuring Gartner education experts and external thought leaders. Discuss topics impacting the education industry in smaller-setting roundtables and workshops. You have a variety of ways to discover new insights, engage and validate your strategy, and walk away ready to make smarter, faster decisions.

Industry Interactive Sessions

Engage with a small group of industry peers - facilitated by a Gartner expert - covering specific topics and issues most relevant to education.*

Conference Networking Activities

Take advantage of curated, relaxed environments to connect - from CIO-exclusive lunches to informal breaks and evening receptions.

Throughout the conference, choose from multiple opportunities to meet peers and build lasting connections.

Connect 1-1 with Industry Peers

Start connecting before the conference and plan your onsite schedule to grow your professional network. Download the Conference Navigator app and opt in to Attendee Networking. Search for peers by role, organization size, industry sector, and region.

View Experience

*Pre-registration is required. These sessions are not available to vendors; space is limited.

Conference Highlights

Get fresh perspectives and collaborate with industry leaders and experts as you access exclusive Gartner research, solve shared challenges, and engage in unique experiences.

  • Join the Gartner CIO Circle Program—designed for Chief Information Officers, offering exclusive sessions tailored to your priorities to explore new strategies, share ideas, and grow your peer community.

  • Discover critical insights for the year ahead in Gartner Signature Series sessions, including Top Strategic Technology Trends, Top Strategic Predictions, and the CIO and Technology Executive Agenda.

  • Participate in industry roundtables to connect with peers from leading organizations, inspired by the latest research and hosted by a Gartner expert.

  • Attend industry-specific sessions tailored specifically to education.

  • Meet one-on-one with a Gartner expert to address your key initiatives and challenges with actionable outcomes.

  • Engage in peer networking events for natural conversations during meals, receptions, and a special event —reserved exclusively for this conference.

  • Access the IT Xpo to connect with leading technology providers, explore innovative, cost-effective solutions, and attend the Gartner Hype Cycle for Higher Education 2026.

“Really great conference, really informative presentations. Plenty to take back and think about!”

Simon Davies 
Product director, MHR