Shepherd University Hosts Its 40th Student Leadership Conference

ISSUED: 27 February 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University's Office of Student Activities and Leadership welcomed students to the 40th annual Student Leadership Conference on Saturday, February 7 at the University's Student Center.

This year's theme, Sustainable Leadership: Avoiding Burnout and Building Bridges, centered on helping student leaders find balance while building the skills necessary for long-term success. Sessions highlighted practical strategies for healthy leadership, including effective delegation, strategic thinking, and conflict management.

The keynote address, Higher Ceilings, Bigger Vision: What Shepherd Made Possible, was delivered by Shepherd alumnus Antonio Perez (B.A., M.B.A.), general manager of Rivers Casino Portsmouth in Virginia. With more than 20 years of leadership experience in the entertainment and hospitality industries, Perez reflected on how leadership opportunities inside and outside of the classroom shaped his career path.

Additional speakers included community leaders and Shepherd alumni who shared their perspectives on leadership development and community impact.

The conference was planned and facilitated by Rachael Meads with financial and staff support from the Bonnie and Bill Stubblefield Institute. Student leaders from the Global Student Leadership Team and the Program Board served as conference hosts and event assistants, helping guide participants throughout the day.

For more information Shepherd University's Student Activities and Leadership Office, visit https://www.shepherd.edu/studentleadership/student-activities-and-leadership-home.

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