Conference Agenda
Communication Science Futures will take place September 18th-20th, 2026 at the MSU Union on the campus of Michigan State University. Below you will find the tentative conference schedule. Note that specific times and some elements of the schedule are still being finalized and are subject to change.
Friday, September 18
Evening
Keynote Dinner & Opening Reception
Join us for the opening keynote address followed by dinner and drinks.
Keynote Speaker: James W. Pennebaker
Talk title TBD.
Saturday, September 19
Morning
Breakfast
Morning
Panel 1 — Futures in Research
Stage presentations selected from the submission pool, exploring forces, trends, and topics shaping the future of communication research.
Late Morning
Breakout Session 1
Small-format discussions and workshops on "hot topics" submitted by attendees. Some will build on panel and poster content; others will be standalone.
Midday
Lunch & Poster Session 1
Afternoon
Panel 2 — Futures in Theory
Stage presentations addressing issues and advancements in communication theory building, testing, and formalization.
Afternoon
Breakout Session 2
Small-format discussions and workshops on "hot topics" submitted by attendees. Some will build on panel and poster content; others will be standalone.
Evening
Happy Hour
Location TBA
Sunday, September 20
Morning
Breakfast
Morning
Panel 3 — Futures in Methods
Stage presentations highlighting new methods for collecting, analyzing, and reporting communication data.
Late Morning
Breakout Session 3
Tool demos, workshops, and discussion groups. Participants choose between technical demos and interactive sessions. Content depends on submissions.
Midday
Lunch & Poster Session 2
Afternoon
Follow-Up Discussions & Unstructured Time
Time reserved for attendees to continue discussions, meet with collaborators, or explore campus and the surrounding area.