Join us in Burlington, Vermont in October 9-10, 2026. More details will be available soon!
Agenda TBD
Building on the success of last-year's inaugural conference, the Center for Community News will host its second national conference this October. The event is an in-person convening of the faculty and journalists who lead student reporting programs across the country; an opportunity to learn from peers, share hard-earned wisdom, and to identify best practices in a challenging journalism environment.
This event will be held at the University of Vermont in Burlington, home of CCN. There's no cost to attend.
Dates, times, and agenda are forthcoming!
FAQ
Transportation
- Your most direct option is to fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is 2 miles from UVM and 3.5 miles from downtown Burlington. The Plattsburgh NY airport is just over an hour away.
- There are also Amtrak stops in Burlington and nearby Essex Junction with routes from DC-NYC-MA and NYC-Albany.
- You can take an Uber or call a local taxi from there.
- For getting back and forth between the conference location and the primary hotel, we will likely have shuttle transportation.
Lodging
CCN expects to secure a block of hotel rooms nearby. Details to come.
These are the hotels in the immediate area:
Hotel Vermont, Doubletree by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Best Western Plus Windjammer Inn (all in Burlington). Because this is foliage season, rates will be above average everywhere.
Things to Do in Vermont
- Burlington Bike Path and waterfront hikes: Located right on the Burlington waterfront, the Burlington bike path or Greenway is a bustling path along the edge of Lake Champlain to walk, run, bike, skate and roam. While you’re down there, check out ECHO, the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, or grab a maple creemee nearby.
- Waterfront Cycling. If you need a bike, there are several options at that link to rent one nearby. The bike path is 8 flat, paved miles. Great for cyclists. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Richard is your expert on all bike things.
- Shelburne Farms. Just a few miles south of Burlington, this stunning farm has history, fresh food, cheesemaking, hiking and more.
- Shelburne Museum. This walkable museum is a mix of history, art, Americana and rolling greens.
- Fall Festivals. Vermont is known for its Autumn events. Here are just a few scheduled for the weekend of October 4: Harvest Celebration at Billings Farm & Museum, Sheep & Wool Festival in Tunbridge, Harvest Fair in Ludlow, and Groton Fall Foliage Festival.
- Explore downtown Burlington. There’s always live music, art exhibits, great food and seasonal events in downtown Burlington. Be sure to check out the Seven Days events calendar for a rundown of what’s happening.
- More Hikes! For options outside of Burlington: Mt. Philo in Charlotte is a short, steep hike to the top of a nearby peak overlooking Lake Champlain. And if you want a real challenge, check out Mt. Mansfield or Camel’s Hump.
- Picturesque Drives. If you’re looking for scenic Vermont towns, check out our state capitol Montpelier, Stowe, and the Northeast Kingdom.
Other Questions
- If you can't be there for the entire event, we are happy to have you for any portion of the conference that works for you.
- Meals will be provided during the main convening times.
- If you want to plan a larger excursion in the area, we are happy to send along recommendations!