#ACELing2026 ~ Rise Ready: Purpose, Growth & Impact

Rise Ready: Purpose, Growth & Impact

Leadership grows through purpose, continuous learning, and the ability to create meaningful impact. At the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference, “Rise Ready: Purpose, Growth & Impact” will open the second day of ACELing with renewed energy and inspiration.

Mark Strickling will share lessons from his leadership journey in higher education, mentorship, and community engagement, highlighting the importance of investing in others and creating opportunities for growth. Through personal stories and insights from his career, Mark will encourage attendees to reflect on their own leadership impact, strengthen meaningful connections, and take action to create positive change within their organizations and communities. This inspiring session will remind leaders that growth is a continuous journey—and that the greatest impact often comes from empowering others to reach their full potential.

Meet the Speaker:

Mark Strickling is a dedicated professional with more than 20 years of leadership and service experience in higher education, focused on helping individuals achieve their full potential. He currently serves with the University of Arizona Foundation in Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement, following a successful career as a Regional Director of Alumni.

Mark is passionate about mentorship, professional development, and empowering individuals through shared knowledge and experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Arizona and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. A proud U of A alumnus, Mark was an Arizona Ambassador and a two-year letter winner on the legendary Desert Swarm football team, including the 1994 Fiesta Bowl championship. He is also a proud husband and father of two U of A Wildcats.

Leading with Purpose. Creating Lasting Impact.

Leadership is not only measured by personal achievements—it is reflected in the people we inspire, the connections we build, and the opportunities we create for others. By embracing growth and leading with purpose, each of us has the ability to make a lasting difference.

Join us at the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference as we begin the second day with a powerful conversation on mentorship, leadership growth, and creating impact through service and connection.

2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Theme: Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.

#ACELing2026 #ShapingWhatsNext #LeadershipDevelopment #Mentorship #PurposeDrivenLeadership #AAPILeadership #ACELNational #InfluenceInnovationImpact