A large auditorium filled with attendees, many of whom have their hands raised, during an Academic Event Professional (AEP) session. A speaker in a blue suit stands near the front, addressing the engaged audience. The stage features a podium and a projection screen, while a bold teal graphic overlay displays the text 'AEP: Academic Event Professional.' The room is brightly lit, and several people in the background are capturing the event on cameras.

AEP: Academic Event Professional

Academic Event Professional (AEP) Logo

What is AEP?

AEP (Academic Event Professional) empowers higher education event planners by fostering a collaborative community for knowledge-sharing, professional development and innovation. Through networking, resources and industry-leading insights, AEP equips members with the resources to create impactful events that advance institutional missions and engage diverse audiences.

Since the founding of AEP in 2006, TSEC has nurtured its evolution from a single breakout session into a premier multi-day conference and a thriving year-round community.

AEP is an extension of our passion for crafting exceptional academic experiences. For nearly two decades, we’ve empowered higher education event planners to deliver transformative events that inspire and engage. As the driving force behind AEP, TSEC remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of excellence in academic event strategy, design and execution.

AEP embodies our commitment to innovation, education and community—aligning with the needs and aspirations of academic event professionals like you.

A group of professionally dressed individuals posing for a group photo at an Academic Event Professional (AEP) gathering. The backdrop features a black curtain with white triangular decorations and a sign that reads 'AEP Thank You to Our 2019 Sponsors.' The participants stand closely together, smiling at the camera, representing a diverse mix of professionals in the event industry.

Experience AEP

Attend the only conference planned by academic event professionals for academic event professionals.

Attracting both seasoned planners and industry newcomers, the AEP Conference is known for its strong commitment to very practical sessions and interactive round table experiences. The conference focuses on topics unique to higher education events and helps to share and create best practices for the field.

Unparalleled professional development

The AEP Conference offers tailored professional development, expert-led sessions and invaluable networking opportunities.

Connect with your peers

Forge lasting relationships with fellow event professionals who understand the unique challenges and rewards of producing outstanding academic events.

Discover innovative solutions

Explore cutting-edge products and services from leading vendors specializing in the higher education event landscape.

Share best practices

Learn from seasoned professionals and contribute your own expertise to a thriving community dedicated to continuous improvement.

A group of six professionally dressed women posing together at an Academic Event Professional (AEP) conference. They are smiling and wearing event name badges while carrying AEP-branded tote bags. The background shows a conference setting with banners and other attendees engaged in conversations.

Become an AEP Fellow

As an AEP Fellow, you gain access to a wealth of resources and exclusive benefits, including:

  • Unmatched peer network & support: Connect with academic event professionals who truly understand the unique challenges of your work. With year-round access to a nationwide network, you can crowdsource insights, swap venue tips and forge lasting partnerships that can help you elevate every event.
  • Exclusive resources & inspiration: From the Fellows Forum for advice to the Idea Gallery showcasing creative event elements, you’ll always have fresh inspiration and valuable information at your fingertips.
  • Insights from industry experts: The Fellows Blog delivers peer-driven industry-related articles to keep you informed and ahead of the curve. Stay inspired and contribute your own expertise to shape the future of academic events.
"A diverse group of seven enthusiastic attendees at an event, posing together with their arms raised in celebration. They are wearing event name badges and lanyards, with one individual holding a professional camera. The background features a conference or networking venue with warm lighting and modern decor.
Three women pose enthusiastically at an event, smiling and striking playful gestures. The woman on the left wears glasses, a black and white striped jacket, and a graphic t-shirt. The woman in the center wears a red and yellow sports jersey with the number 15, along with an AEP conference badge. The woman on the right wears a floral blouse and carries a red and black event tote bag. They appear to be in a hotel or conference venue, with an event banner and attendees in the background.
A display of University of the Pacific alumni merchandise, including an orange and black Pacific pennant, a black baseball cap with a football logo, a pom-pom, a QR code promotional button, and various branded items on a table. A sign in the background features the Pacific Tigers logo and the hashtag #PacificAlumni.


Join our community of excellence!

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