Communities In Schools Founder Bill Milliken to Deliver Keynote at 2026 Global Mission Summit

Education pioneer will encourage leaders to reimagine innovation and recognize human connection as a powerful force for student success

ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Communities In Schools® (CIS®), the nation's leading provider of K-12 school-based integrated student supports, announced today that Founder and Vice Chairman Bill Milliken will deliver a keynote address at the 2026 Global Mission Summit on Thursday, Oct. 8, in Dallas.

Milliken's keynote, "The Most Impactful Technology Innovation in Education: Human Connection," will challenge entrepreneurs, educators, funders and mission-driven leaders to broaden how they think about innovation in education.

At a time when emerging technologies are rapidly reshaping education, Milliken will make the case that one of the most powerful tools for changing a young person's trajectory remains decidedly human.

"Human connection is not separate from innovation. It is foundational to it," Milliken said. "When a young person knows there is an adult who believes in them and will stand beside them, we create the conditions for them to learn and realize what is possible."

For nearly 50 years, that belief has been at the heart of Communities In Schools. Milliken founded CIS on the principle that relationships (not programs alone) change young people's lives. Today, the CIS Network works in more than 3,500 schools and serves more than 2 million students annually, surrounding them with a community of support.

Recent research underscores the power of relationships on student outcomes. A study by Opportunity Insights in partnership with the EdRedesign Lab at the Harvard Graduate School of Education found that pairing critical resources with trusted personalized relationships (like those provided by CIS) can positively impact students' success in school and into adulthood.

Milliken will speak from 1:25–1:45 p.m. CT on Thursday, Oct. 8, at the JW Marriott Dallas Arts District. His keynote precedes the announcement of the Mission Cup winners, placing his message at a pivotal moment in the summit.

The Global Mission Summit brings together founders, funders, educators, entrepreneurs and other purpose-driven leaders to connect, collaborate and scale impact.

About Communities In Schools

Communities In Schools® (CIS®) helps students realize their full potential. For 49 years, CIS has supported millions of students on their path to success in school, the workforce, and life. Working in more than 3,500 schools nationwide, CIS connects students with caring adults and community resources that help them recognize, address, and overcome barriers to a brighter future.

CONTACT: Rasheda Williams, PR Specialist, [email protected]

SOURCE Communities In Schools