Secular Student Alliance National Conference

After a great deal of discussion and careful consideration, the Secular Student Alliance has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2026 SSA Summer Conference.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve been in conversation with students across the country about attending the conference. Again and again, we heard the same concerns: many students are planning to work throughout the summer because of rising costs and the need to save money for the upcoming school year. Students shared concerns about affording rent, food, gas, travel, and other everyday expenses that continue to increase.

We recognize that the current cost-of-living crisis is affecting students in significant ways.  Even with SSA fundraising support and travel grants, we understand that attending the conference may still not have been financially realistic for many students this year.

We also believe that when students come together for a national conference, they deserve an experience that is engaging, accessible, and impactful. We want to provide strong participation, meaningful connections, thoughtful workshops, and high-quality programming. Given the financial realities many students are currently facing, we do not believe we could deliver the conference experience our students deserve in 2026.

We know this news is disappointing. It’s disappointing for us as well.

We are also looking ahead to the 2027 student conference and sincerely hope to see students, chapter leaders, and alumni there.

Thank you for your understanding, your leadership, and the work you continue to do on your campuses and in your communities. Student leaders are at the heart of SSA’s mission, and we remain committed to supporting you however we can.