ACBSP Region 1 Conference - Bridging the Gap

ACBSP Region 1 Conference - Bridging the Gap

By Rivier University

Get ready to network, learn, and have a blast at the ACBSP Region 1 Conference - it's where business magic happens!

Date and time

Location

Rivier University

420 S Main Street Nashua, NH 03060

Lineup

Agenda

Day 1
Day 2

11:00 AM

Day 1 - ACBSP Region 1 Conference


Day 1 – Friday, November 7, kicks off with check-in, lunch, and networking, followed by opening remarks to set the tone for the conference. The afternoon begins with a collaborative roundtable exerci...

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Door Open - Lunch and Networking (Dion Center Reception Room)


Doors open at 11:00am. Please check in at the registration table upon arrival. Join us for lunch and networking.

12:30 PM - 12:45 PM

Opening Remarks (Dion Center Reception Room)


Rivier University leadership will welcome attendees and share the University’s vision, followed by Dr. Amir Toosi, Dean of the Division of Business and Security Studies, highlighting the Division’s f...

12:45 PM - 1:30 PM

Keynote Speaker - Mr. Michael Croatti - (Dion Center Reception Room)


A dynamic address on workforce development and bridging the gap between industry and the classroom to prepare and inspire future business leaders.

1:30 PM - 1:45 PM

Break


A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

Block 1A - Active Learning for Student Engagement and Workforce Readiness


Join us in the Science and Innovation Center classroom 140 for Dr. Kyle Soldano & Mark Vrooman, Colby-Sawyer College. This interactive workshop helps faculty identify key professional skills, explore...

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

Block 1B - An Internship Blueprint: Building Bridges from Campus to Career


Russ Norris, Rivier University, Science and Innovation Center classroom 130. This workshop highlights the development and continuous improvement of the Internship Program within the Division of Busin...

2:30 PM - 2:45 PM

Break


A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM

Block 2A: Microcredentials and Credit for Prior Learning


Dr. George Repic, SUNY Rockland Community College, Science and Innovation Center classroom 130. The role of microcredentials and credit for prior learning to meet the needs of employers and increase ...

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM

Block 2B: Bridging the Gap: Executive Residencies as Conference-Style Learning


Dr. Erin Willkinson Hartung, New England College, Science and Innovation Center classroom 140. This workshop focuses on NEC's executive graduate business residencies offer conference-style weekends w...

3:30 PM - 3:45 PM

Break


A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Student Panel on Workforce Preparation (Sylvia Trottier Hall Auditorium 211)


Led by Dr. Mark Meehan, this panel features students sharing their perspectives and experiences on workforce development and preparing for future careers.

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Dinner (Pre-Purchased Add-On Required)


Join us for a fun and festive Friday night dinner at Margaritas in Nashua, NH! This add-on includes access to a private event space, a full taco bar, dessert, and unlimited soda and water. A cash/car...

Good to know

Highlights

  • 1 day 4 hours
  • In person
  • Free parking
  • Doors at 11:00 AM

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

Business • Career

About the Region 1 ACBSP Conference

Join us on November 7–8 for the Region 1 ACBSP Conference, where our theme, “Bridging the Gap - Meeting the Needs of Today’s Businesses,” takes center stage. This year, we’re focusing on building stronger connections between business programs and the business industry, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the workforce of tomorrow.

We are especially grateful to the ACBSP members who completed our pre-event survey; your insights directly shaped our programming and helped us design a conference that addresses the needs and interests of our community.

Over the course of two engaging days, participants will enjoy:

  • Dedicated networking opportunities to foster meaningful connections
  • Roundtable discussions for collaborative problem-solving
  • Panel presentations featuring both students and industry leaders
  • Hands-on workshops focused on innovative strategies to bridge the academic-to-industry gap

Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or industry professional, this conference offers valuable perspectives, practical tools, and collaborative experiences to help close the gap between business education and real-world business needs.



Friday Night Dinner – Exclusive Conference Add-On - Unwind and connect with fellow conference attendees at Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant in downtown Nashua! This special Friday night dinner is available only to registered conference participants who purchase the dinner add-on.

Your ticket includes a delicious meal featuring the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine, served in a warm and welcoming private event space.

If you’re traveling with guests, they are welcome to join—dinner tickets can be purchased for each additional person at the same add-on rate. Whether you’re catching up with colleagues or making new connections, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend!

Make the Most of Your Stay in Nashua - Nashua, NH offers a wide range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options to turn your conference experience into an enjoyable getaway. From well-rated hotels just minutes from the Rivier University campus to top-tier restaurants and exciting nightlife, Southern New Hampshire provides the perfect backdrop to connect, unwind, and stay refreshed throughout the event.

We encourage all Region 1 members to make the most of their visit—extend your stay, explore the area, and take advantage of everything downtown Nashua has to offer. Below, you’ll find a curated list of local hotels, dining options, and nearby attractions that make overnight stays both convenient and worthwhile.

Hotels Near Campus: (Use this link to book)

Homewood Suites by Hilton – Gateway Hills 15 Tara Boulevard, Nashua, NH 03062 • (603) 546-7470 2025 | Rate: 20% off base rate + tax | Book Online: Rivier University Rate | 3.6 miles from campus.

Sheraton Nashua 11 Tara Boulevard, Nashua, NH 03062 • (603) 888-9970 | 2025 Rate: $135 + tax – Use booking link or ask for Rivier University Rate | Book Online: Rivier University Rate | 3.7 miles from campus.

Clarion Inn 10 St. Laurent Street, Nashua, NH 03064, (603) 883-7700 | 2025 Rate: $129 + tax Sunday through Thursday; $159 + tax Friday and Saturday (ask for Rivier Rate) | 4.6 miles from campus.

Top Local Picks

  • Visit the Pheasant Lane Mall for tax‑free shopping at over 135 stores!
  • Enjoy a relaxed, off-campus meal at Tavern in the Square in Tyngsborough, MA, offering casual, full-service dining in a lively atmosphere.
  • Experience the excitement of the new Nash Casino, a world-class venue with gaming, bars, restaurants, live music, a sportsbook, and Topgolf Swing Suites.
  • Locations are easily accessible by car or ride-share, just minutes from Rivier University near Route 3 and the Massachusetts border.

For more local dining and lodging, please visit: https://www.rivier.edu/admissions/visit/accommodations-dining/

Frequently asked questions

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Rivier University

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$175 – $200
Nov 7 · 11:00 AM EST