A public affairs signature event
The 23rd Public Affairs Conference is Sept. 29 - Oct. 1, 2026. Free and open to the
public, this year's conference offers a mix of in-person speakers and live virtual
panels.
Make sure to check out the full schedule of events including pre-conference and post-conference special events!
Make sure to check out the full schedule of events including pre-conference and post-conference special events!
Welcome to the 2026 Conference
In-person and virtual programming
View all the details for this year's exciting events, speakers and panel sessions!
Free and open to the public
Access information on conference format, parking and more.
Keynote speaker
Rainn Wilson presents the opening keynote on Tues., Sept. 29 at 7:00pm at Juanita
K Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. This is a live, in-person event only and is
free and open to the public.
Mr. Wilson's appearance is presented by the Missouri State University Foundation and KY3.
VIP RECEPTION
Purchase a ticket to the Rainn Wilson VIP Reception, hosted by the MSU Foundation. This reception is hosted 5-7 PM, prior to the free presentation at 7 PM.
Mr. Wilson's appearance is presented by the Missouri State University Foundation and KY3.
VIP RECEPTION
Purchase a ticket to the Rainn Wilson VIP Reception, hosted by the MSU Foundation. This reception is hosted 5-7 PM, prior to the free presentation at 7 PM.
National and International
View the full cadre of plenary speakers and national and international expert panelists
who will share their perspectives on some of today's most pressing issues in their
fields.