The Mackinac Roundtable on Talent is a one-of-a-kind, invitation-only gathering advancing student outcomes through cross-sector collaboration.

The Mackinac Roundtable on Talent brings together college and university presidents with senior business and talent leaders to advance one shared priority: student career success.

The 2026 Roundtable is anchored by the theme:

“Strategy, Distinction, and Storytelling in an ROI Environment”

The program is designed as an interactive, working forum—not a traditional conference. Participants engage in facilitated sessions, applied scenarios, and peer-level dialogue, guided by nationally-recognized and inspiring speakers in the field.

This year’s program will include a deep dive into institutional strategy and brand alignment, focusing on rising stakeholder expectations for relevance and measurable student success. A management framework and exercises will fuel actionable program takeaways.

A National Platform for Collaboration

Now in its fourteenth year, the Mackinac Roundtable on Talent has become a leading national platform for innovation and collaboration between private higher education and the business community. Each year, new insights emerge that inform institutional decision-making, strengthen cross-sector partnerships, and elevate how colleges and universities tell their story in a results-driven environment.

Held annually at the iconic Grand Hotel on beautiful Mackinac Island, Michigan, the 2026 gathering is expected to include more than 120 college and university presidents, alongside senior corporate and talent leaders, representing 35 states and international destinations.

The Mackinac Roundtable on Talent is an invitation-only event with accommodations, food and program costs complimentary for participants.

About Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island

The Roundtable is held annually at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.

Nestled in the pristine waters of Lake Huron between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island is a captivating destination where time slows down and natural beauty abounds. Named the “#1 Summer Travel Destination in the US” by USA Today in 2025, Mackinac Island offers a serene and picturesque retreat. The Island is unique as it is primarily accessible by ferry, allows no motorized vehicles, and island transportation is exclusively horse and carriage.

At its heart stands the iconic Grand Hotel, a National Historic Landmark renowned for its stunning views, world-class hospitality, and the world’s longest porch. Grand Hotel was recently named one of “The 25 Most Iconic Hotels to Visit on Earth” by Elle Decor. With its elegant Victorian architecture and timeless allure, the Grand Hotel provides an inspiring setting for the Mackinac Roundtable on Talent.

Many Roundtable attendees bring guests and family members and enjoy all that Mackinac Island and Grand Hotel have to offer.