Campus Store Connect

Making the Most of Key Campus Weekends

Thursday, September 24, 2026 | 10:30am ET | Virtual via Zoom

FREE for store members! You must be logged in to register.

Homecoming, Family Weekend, alumni events, and other major campus weekends bring unique opportunities for campus stores to connect with visitors, strengthen campus partnerships, and drive traffic and sales. They can also require careful planning to ensure stores are prepared for increased demand and different customer audiences.

Join fellow NCSA members for a collaborative discussion focused on making the most of key campus weekends and events. Together, we’ll explore topics such as event planning and preparation, merchandise and inventory strategies, marketing and promotions, campus partnerships, staffing and store operations, and creating a memorable experience for students, families, alumni, and other visitors.

This session is designed as an open exchange of ideas and experiences, guided by participant questions and shared examples. Members will discuss what has worked at their institutions, challenges they’ve encountered, and strategies they’ve developed to maximize the impact of these important campus occasions.

Connect with colleagues from stores of all sizes to share ideas, learn how other institutions approach their biggest weekends, and take away practical strategies that can be adapted for your own campus.

Format: Interactive round-table discussion and idea sharing — participation is encouraged.