STAR Global Futures Forum

Advancing AI, Equity, and First-Generation Success

Event Name: STAR Global Futures Forum: Advancing AI, Equity, and First-Generation Success

Date: February 16, 2026

Time: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm (EST)

Venue: Arizona State University Campus, Washington, D.C.

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The STAR Global Futures Forum 2026 brought together national and international leaders in higher education, public policy, and philanthropy to examine the future of ethical leadership, first-generation student success, and responsible artificial intelligence. Held in Washington, DC, the Forum featured powerful remarks from university presidents, foundation executives, government officials, and scholars who challenged institutions to rebuild public trust, prioritize equity, and guide innovation with integrity.

We invite you to explore our Quote-Driven Highlights Page, where you can read selected excerpts from distinguished dignitaries and experience the vision, urgency, and inspiration that defined this landmark gathering.

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Watch Video on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/starscholarsnetwork

Overview

The STAR Global Futures Forum is a landmark international convening bringing together higher education leaders, scholars, policymakers, and innovators to reflect on the future of global higher education. This signature event marks three significant milestones: the unveiling of the Global AI Guidelines for Higher Education, the launch of the First in the Family book series in partnership with the Lumina Foundation, and the 8th Anniversary of the STAR Scholars Network.

Designed as a forward-looking forum, the event underscores STAR’s continued commitment to ethical innovation, equity, and global academic collaboration.

This is a high-stakes, multi-layered event. To balance the “hard” technical aspect of AI guidelines with the “human” element of first-generation success, the program needs a narrative arc that moves from Global Frameworks to Individual Impact.

Purpose and Significance

The Forum advances a shared vision for higher education institutions worldwide by:

Unveiling the Global AI Guidelines
Introducing a principled, adaptable framework to support ethical, inclusive, and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across teaching, learning, research, and institutional governance. Prepared by the STAR Global AI Taskforce, this framework will be freely available for the institutions of higher education worldwide to adopt/adapt in their contexts.
Launching First in the Family
Celebrating first-generation college graduates through a powerful new book series developed in partnership with the Lumina Foundation, amplifying global narratives of access, resilience, and educational mobility.
Celebrating 8 Years of STAR Scholars Network and Honoring the STAR Luminaries
Honoring eight years of global scholarly engagement, academic diplomacy, and leadership in advancing inclusive and innovative higher education. We will be recognizing several leaders shaping a more humane and just world through scholarship, research, and practice.

Event Feature Highlights

Convened university presidents, policymakers, foundation leaders, faculty, and students in Washington, DC for a national dialogue on the future of higher education.
Celebrated the 8th Anniversary of the STAR Scholars Network, a Maryland-based global organization partnering with thousands of institutions worldwide.
Unveiled the STAR Global AI Guidelines, introducing a principled framework centered on stewardship, trust, accountability, and integrity.
Launched the First in the Family global book series, elevating first-generation student narratives in partnership with national foundations.
Recognized the 2026 STAR Luminaries, honoring distinguished leaders for their contributions to scholarship, governance, and innovation.
Highlighted equity-first AI implementation strategies from government and institutional leaders.
Showcased cross-sector collaboration among universities, policymakers, and philanthropic organizations.
Affirmed higher education as a public good and a catalyst for economic mobility, civic engagement, and democratic resilience.
Fostered meaningful networking and partnership-building among global scholars and institutional leaders.

About STAR Scholars Network

The STAR Scholars Network is a global academic platform dedicated to advancing research, leadership, equity, and innovation in higher education. Now in its eighth year, STAR continues to foster cross-border collaboration, amplify diverse scholarly voices, and promote ethical, inclusive futures for higher education worldwide.