TELL YOUR FRIENDS!
Download the CSSN Annual Conference Flyer

The CSSN conference will be an exciting opportunity for professionals and students who are interested in the intersections of sustainability and sport in higher education.

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville blends natural beauty with an inviting, walkable downtown full of Southern charm. Whether you’re looking to recharge between sessions or extend your stay, Knoxville offers something for every pace.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the trails and river views at Ijams Nature Center and the expansive Knoxville Urban Wilderness or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the UT Gardens right on campus. Volunteer Landing and the Tennessee River waterfront offer beautiful skyline views, especially at sunset.

Downtown, historic Gay Street and lively Market Square are filled with local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and gathering spaces. Take in panoramic views from the iconic Sunsphere at World’s Fair Park, visit the free Knoxville Museum of Art, or explore the Old City for live music and nightlife in a beautifully preserved historic district.

If you have additional time, a short drive will lead you to rolling fields and quiet river bends at Seven Islands State Birding Park. Altogether, Knoxville offers a relaxed yet vibrant setting that reflects the character and creativity of the region.

For Things to do in the region, visit https://www.visitknoxville.com/things-to-do/

Monday, July 27th
at the Art & Architecture Building - 1715 Volunteer Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37996 (directions: Dogwood Dorms to AA; Hotel Graduate to AA)

‍ ‍ 4-6pm Opening Reception
6.30 pm Optional dinner at marble city market

Tuesday, July 28th
at the Frieson Black Cultural Center - 1800 Melrose Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916 (directions: Dogwood Dorms to Frieson; Hotel Graduate to Frieson)

8am-9am: Breakfast

9am-10am: Keynote Session

10am-12pm: Session I, II

12pm-1pm: Lunch (Zero waste initiatives at UTK: visit food4VOLS “No Hunger. No Waste.”)

1pm-4pm: Session III, IV

4pm-6pm: Athletics Tour

7pm-9pm: Baseball Game - Knoxville Smokies at Covenant Health Park, 500 East Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915

Wednesday, July 29th
at the Frieson Black Cultural Center - 1800 Melrose Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916
(directions: Dogwood Dorms to Frieson; Hotel Graduate to Frieson)

‍ ‍ 8am-9am: Breakfast

‍ ‍ 9am-10am: CSSN Session

‍ ‍ 10am-11am: Session V

‍ ‍ 11am-12:30pm: Student-Athlete Session

‍ ‍ 12:30pm: Grab-n-go lunch available

‍ ‍ 1pm-4pm: Optional Tour

Schedule is subject to change

The Collegiate Sports Sustainability Conference invites innovative and passionate leaders to submit presentation proposals that advance the future of sustainability in college athletics. We welcome submissions across a wide range of focus areas, including academics and research, fan and community engagement, operations and efficiency, sponsorship and marketing, student‑athlete leadership, and other emerging topics that support sustainable progress in collegiate sports. Whether you’re driving change on campus, in competition venues, or throughout your community, we encourage you to share your insights, successes, and ideas to help shape a more sustainable athletic landscape.

Categories:
- Academics and Research
- Fan and Community Engagement
- Operations and Efficiency
- Sponsorship and Marketing
- Student-Athlete Leadership

Deadline: 11:59PM EST June 26

Submit your proposal here!

General registration: $299
Student registration: $82. 
These prices include the conference sessions, conference meals, and a networking event.

REGISTER NOW
Registration will be accepted until July 13th, 2026.

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Travel Logistics:

- Airport:
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Alcoa, TN (Approximately 11-12 miles south of downtown Knoxville)

- Ground Transportation:
Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft), taxis, and rental cars are available for the short trip to campus.

- On campus lodging:
Dogwood Residence Hall, 2113 Andy Holt Ave, Knoxville, TN 37996:
Private Room, featuring XL twin beds, desk, chair, closet, micro-fridge and bathroom: $54.63 per night (Linens: One-time fee of $32.78)
> When Registering, opt for “On Campus Accommodation”: Register now

- Off campus lodging:
Hotel accommodations are available at Graduate Knoxville, 1706 Cumberland Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916:
$149 per night. Reservations in the conference room block must be made by June 26, 2026, using this booking link.

Sponsorship opportunities for the Collegiate Sports Sustainability Conference will offer organizations a unique platform to showcase their commitment to environmental and social responsibility within college athletics. From branding visibility to meaningful engagement with campus leaders, student‑athletes, and industry partners, our sponsorship packages will provide impactful ways to support and elevate sustainability initiatives across the collegiate sports landscape.

For more details on sponsorship levels and benefits, down load the CSSN 2026 Conference Sponsorship Flyer