Indiana University Rural Conference

Monday, May 17, 2027, 8:00 AM – Tuesday, May 18, 2027, 3:30 PM

French Lick Springs Resort
8670 West State Road 56
French Lick, IN 47432

Join us for the IU Center for Rural Engagement's two-day conference, an event focused on celebrating and strengthening Indiana’s rural communities.

Connect with community and state leaders, residents, professionals, and Indiana University partners to share ideas, explore opportunities, and examine key issues shaping rural Indiana. Together, these conversations and collaborations spark new possibilities for building a more vibrant and resilient future across the state.

Registration includes all sessions and materials. Join us for both days or a single day. Doors open at 8 a.m. 

The full conference rate is $120 per person. Single-day attendance is $75 per person. 

Check back soon for information about submitting a proposal and registering for the conference.

Feature topics

Taking Action for a Healthier Indiana

Breakout sessions will include rural mental health, local food systems and initiatives, substance use disorder interventions, and public health planning topics.

Collaborating for a Stronger Indiana

Breakout sessions will include arts and economic development, regional collaborations, environmental resilience, placemaking, and local arts topics.

Questions about sponsor opportunities? Contact us at iucre@iu.edu.

Contact us

Accommodations

Make reservations for rooms in the discounted block at French Lick Springs Resort with group code 0527IUR and password 0527IUR or by calling 844-241-6361 and using code 0527IUR. 

Book your room

Things to do

French Lick has a wealth of activities and dining experiences. Check out the Visit French Lick website to see what's happening during your visit.

Collaborations

Together with our partners, we have become a national model for how universities can support the needs and futures of rural residents and communities. 

See how our collaborations are impacting rural Indiana