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Rivier University
Starting at USD 35
Fri, 07 Nov, 2025 at 11:00 am - Sat, 08 Nov, 2025 at 03:30 pm (GMT-05:00)
Rivier University
420 S Main Street, Nashua, United States
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:
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
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.
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.
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
For more local dining and lodging, please visit: https://www.rivier.edu/admissions/visit/accommodations-dining/
Info: 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 exercise and an inspiring keynote address, leading into multiple workshop options designed to share strategies, best practices, and innovative approaches for bridging the gap between business programs and the business industry. After a short break, the focus shifts to student voices with internship presentations and a student panel on workforce preparation. The day concludes with a social hour and dinner, offering additional opportunities to connect, collaborate, and continue the conversation.
Info: Doors open at 11:00am. Please check in at the registration table upon arrival. Join us for lunch and networking.
Info: 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 focus on leadership, innovation, and community partnerships.
Info: An interactive icebreaker where attendees connect, share experiences, and get to know one another at the start of the event.
Info: A dynamic address on workforce development and bridging the gap between industry and the classroom to prepare and inspire future business leaders.
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Block 1 – Career Compass: Navigating Student Paths from Classroom to Career
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Join Professor Russ Norris, who oversees the Division of Business and Security Studies’ internship course, along with students, for an engaging co-presentation sharing real-world experiences and insights.
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Led by Dr. Mark Meehan, this panel features students sharing their perspectives and experiences on workforce development and preparing for future careers.
Info: 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/card bar will also be available for those who’d like to purchase adult beverages. It's a great way to relax, connect, and kick off the weekend with fellow attendees!
Info: Day 2 – Saturday, November 8 begins with a coffee and tea social to encourage networking, followed by a series of workshop sessions offering practical strategies, innovative approaches, and opportunities for collaborative discussion. After breaks between sessions, participants will engage in a lunch and panel discussion with industry leaders, exploring real-world perspectives on bridging the academic-to-industry gap. The afternoon features a lively Shark Tank-style competition, an update from the ACBSP National Office, and information about the Region 1 Fall 2025 meeting. The conference closes with suggestions for local activities, giving attendees a chance to explore the area, enjoy nearby dining, and connect informally before departing.
Info: A casual opportunity for attendees to connect, share ideas, and build professional relationships over refreshments.
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Attendees select one of three interactive workshops tailored to their interests and professional goals. Workshop A: Technology Adoption – Discussion about technology to incorporate in the classroom.
Workshop B – Responsible innovation – DEI (Dr. Chari Henry-Wilson)
Workshop C: Call for Presentation
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Workshop A - The Chalk Still Matters: Grounding Innovation in Educational Foundations (Dr. Kevin Wayne)
Workshop B - Equity, Education, and Economic Growth: Reframing Workforce Development (Dr. Karen Spohn and Prof. Alicia Parillo)
Workshop C: Call for Presentation
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: Led by Dr. Mark Meehan, this panel features industry leaders sharing their insights and experiences on workforce development and preparing the next generation for successful careers.
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: An exciting event where participants present innovative ideas or business concepts, showcasing creativity, strategy, and entrepreneurial skills.
Info: A short pause for attendees to relax, network, and refresh before the next session.
Info: An overview from the national office highlighting updates and key priorities relevant to attendees and the broader community.
Info: An overview of recent developments, initiatives, and priorities specific to Region 1, keeping attendees informed and engaged.
Info:
- The Nash Casino
- Pheasant Lane Mall (Shopping)
- Restaurants (Main Street)
Info: An exclusive gathering; see ticket add-on for details and access to this special experience.
Also check out other Workshops in Nashua, Meetups in Nashua, Business events in Nashua.
Tickets for ACBSP Region 1 Conference - Bridging the Gap can be booked here.
| Ticket type | Ticket price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird - ACBSP Members Only | 175 USD |
| ACBSP Members | 200 USD |
| Non Members | 200 USD |
| Dinner Friday Night | 35 USD |
| Hot Stove Event Saturday Evening | 87 USD |
