Student Leadership Conference

Join us for three days of interactive fun and meaningful collaboration with award-winning artists and experts at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Albuquerque, NM. Featuring speakers that are sure to inspire. You will also have a chance to meet with representatives from local colleges and businesses. This conference is FREE for GEAR UP students.

Check out the keynote speaker spotlight below for more information!

Conference Links:

Agenda Quick Glance

wednesday, November 13

2 - 4 PM: Arrival + College Fair

4 PM: Check In

5 PM: Opening + Welcome

6:15 PM: Dinner

7:15 - 8:15 PM: Keynote Address

8:30 PM: GEAR UP After Dark

thursday, November 14

7:45 AM: Breakfast

9 - 10:30 AM: Workshop Session 1

10:45 AM - 12:15 PM: Workshop Session 2

12:20 - 1:20 PM: Lunch

1:30 - 2:30 PM: Keynote Address

4 - 5:30 PM: Workshop Session 3

6:45 PM: Dinner

7:30 PM: Keynote Address, Concert + Dance

friday, November 15

7:45 AM: Breakfast

9 - 10:30 AM: Workshop Session 4

10:45 - 1 PM: Closing Session

*Please Note: school staff will need to input all information captured on paper registration via the online registration link once complete.

keynote speaker Spotlight:

Lilyan Prado Carrillo, MPA

A Voice for Leadership and Empowerment

Lilyan Prado Carrillo is a passionate advocate for education, leadership, and community empowerment. A first-generation immigrant from Guatemala, Lilyan juggled a full-time job to fund her education, eventually earning a full-tuition scholarship at Texas Woman’s University and later obtaining a Master’s in Public Administration. With nearly two decades of experience empowering students, parents, and educators, Lilyan’s work amplifies the voices of underserved communities and inspires young leaders to serve and represent their peers and community. Despite personal challenges, including a battle with breast cancer, Lilyan continues to inspire and challenge students to achieve their full potential.

Learn more about Lilyan Prado Carrillo

Ernesto Mejia

Co-founder of CoolSpeak

Ernesto Mejia is an expert in youth empowerment and leadership development. As the son of Mexican immigrants, Ernesto’s journey to academic and career success is marked by perseverance and hard work. Through his work with CoolSpeak, Ernesto has empowered thousands of students to embrace education and leadership opportunities. He inspires students to pursue their dreams by sharing his own challenges and triumphs, particularly overcoming language barriers and cultural expectations. Ernesto’s powerful storytelling connects with students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to take ownership of their futures.

Learn more about Ernesto Mejia

Frequently Asked Questions

Students will observe and participate in experiential leadership activities.
GEAR UP staff will transport students to and from the conference. GEAR UP staff members are district employees of the school your student attends.
Students are staying in a hotel and will be assigned a roommate. All students must be in their own hotel rooms between the hours of 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Overnight security is on duty during the overnight hours.
Dress for the program is casual student attire. A conference t-shirt is provided and should be worn on Day 2. Jeans, pants and leggings are appropriate.