May 28 & 29, 2026 / michigan union
Registration is Open!
The fourth annual Maize X Blue ("maize by blue") Marketing and Communications Summit is expanding to two days, offering more of what our attendees have requested, as well as new opportunities to network and learn. Be inspired by marketing and communications thought leaders, reconnect with U-M colleagues, and grow your skills. You will learn how our community is applying innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of today's higher-ed environment.
featuring keynote speaker
Ann Wylie, CSP
Writing Coach & CEO of Wylie Communications
Gain valuable insights on how to reach more readers and move them to act from this year's keynote speaker, acclaimed writing coach and strategist Ann Wylie. Ann's lively and interactive presentation will transform your writing, whether "writer" is formally in your job title or simply part of your job (and when is it not?).
Over the past 30 years, Ann has trained thousands of communicators in hundreds of workshops, from Hollywood to Helsinki, at major companies and organizations including Coca-Cola, Toyota, NASA, FedEx, and the Mayo Clinic. Before founding her firm, Wylie Communications, she led award-winning projects at Hallmark Cards and served as a magazine editor. Ann's work has earned more than 60 awards—including two Gold Quills, often called the "Pulitzer Prizes" of business communication—making her an inspiring voice for communicators everywhere.
Call for proposals
We are looking for proposals that address challenges and present opportunities across a range of marketing and communications topics. Suggested breakout sessions and poster presentation themes include content planning, inclusive communication tactics, social media engagement, use of generative AI, navigating community challenges, adapting trends, solo communicator hacks, project management, event planning, and more!
Sponsorship opportunities
MXB is a unique opportunity for brands to efficiently reach hundreds of U-M decision-makers and meet their marketing goals.
Relive last year's conference
Missed it? Curious what's in store? Take a peek at the moments, connections, and ideas that made last year unforgettable.