ARD Research Symposium 2026

Welcome to the website for the 22^nd Research Symposium of the Association of 1890 Research Directors, Inc. (ARD). The ARD has planned an exciting and informative conference and looks forward to repeating the success of the 2024 Symposium which engaged more than 1500 registrants. This website will be updated periodically to keep you informed of all Symposium activities. Contact information is provided throughout this website should you have any questions. See you in New Orleans!

The 2026 ARD Symposium Theme is, “Innovations in Food, Health & Agriculture: Technological Advancements, Ecological Resilience, & Economic Sustainability”

Symposium Goal: To provide a forum for interactions, knowledge sharing, building networks for expanded partnerships and to showcase the talents and achievements of the 1890 community.

Important Information

Registration

Registration is now closed. Record-breaking interest has exceeded the Hyatt Regency’s capacity, and this step ensures a safe, well-managed, and rewarding symposium experience for all attendees.

Hotel Registration

The ARD room block at the Hyatt Regency is currently sold out. A list of nearby, walkable hotels will be posted soon.

Hyatt Regency New Orleans
601 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113

The hotel phone number is (504) 561-1234.
Walkable Nearby Hotels

Exhibitors

Each 1890 campus is invited to display one university exhibit FREE. Additional exhibits and non-1890 exhibitors must pay the fee of $3,000 by February 6, 2026. All exhibitors, including the 1890s, must submit the Exhibit Registration Form by the deadline.

To become an Exhibitor:
Attached Form

Abstracts

The deadline for abstracts for oral presentations is Monday, November 17, 2025. Click below for instructions for formatting and electronic submission.
https://wwwcp.umes.edu/ard/1890symposium/abstract-instructions/

The application deadline to submit forms for the Morrison-Evans Outstanding Scientist Award, the B.D. Bayberry Young Scientist Award, McKinley Mayes Mentoring Award, and the Walter A. Hill Distinguished Service Award is Friday, January 16, 2026. To submit a nominee, click below
https://wwwcp.umes.edu/ard/1890symposium/award-nominations-overview/

For Additional Information, Please Contact:

Orlando F. McMeans, Ph.D., Symposium Steering Committee Co-Chair
Southern University Agricultural Research & Extension Center (225) 771-4310 or orlando_mcmeans@suagcenter.com

Alton Thompson, Ph.D., ARD Executive Director
North Carolina A&T State University/ (336) 285-2955 or athompson1@ncat.edu