KC Disrupted: Wicked Problems and Creative Solutions

March 6 – 8, 2026 • Johnson County Community College

The Great Plains Honors Council serves collegiate honors programs in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. Coordinating its activities with the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC), the Great Plains organization promotes the flow of information, ideas, fellowship and professional encouragement throughout its member programs. Our spring regional conference always emphasizes student presentations and the region-as-text.

Contact the JCCC Honors Program: 913-469-2434; [email protected]

Hotels

KC Disrupted: Wicked Problems and Creative Solutions

All hotels are within 5 miles of campus.

Make your reservation no later than February 13, 2026.

We have a limited number of rooms reserved at the conference rate: be sure to book early!

Embassy Suites

10601 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS

(913) 649-7060

King Room w/ Sleeper sofa — $139/night

Fairfield Inn

12440 Blue Valley Pkwy
Overland Park, KS 66213

(913) 338-3600

        • King Room w/ sleeper sofa — $149/night
        • Double Queens — $164/night

Hampton Inn

7521 W. 135th St.
Overland Park, KS 66223

913-681-6600

Double Queens — $149/night

Great Plains Honors Council- HAMPTON

Home2 Suites

7121 W. 135th St.
Overland Park, KS 66223

(913) 229-9220

Double Queens $149/night

Great Plains Honors Council- HOME2

Excursions

KC Disrupted: Wicked Problems and Creative Solutions

WWI Museum and Liberty Tower

Discover America’s only museum solely dedicated to World War I, located at the iconic Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri. Designated by Congress as the national WWI Museum, it houses over 350,000 artifacts and documents that tell the story of the Great War from causes through the armistice and beyond. The 217-foot Liberty Memorial Tower provides panoramic views of the Kansas City skyline.

Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in art spanning 5,000 years at the Nelson-Atkins Museum, home to over 42,000 artworks from ancient to contemporary times. Highlights include European masters, modern and American art, expansive Asian collections, and an iconic sculpture garden dotted with the playful “Shuttlecocks.”

Kansas City Zoo

Spend your day exploring over 200 acres of wildlife, where more than 1,700 animals representing over 200 species await.  The zoo is divided into themed regions—including Africa, Australia, Tiger Trail, KidZone, and a Polar Bear Passage—with immersive exhibits like Helzberg Penguin Plaza and the newly added ocean-aquarium habitats included with admission.

Urban Hikes KC

Take a guided urban hike/walking tour throughout one of Kansas City’s Historic Neighborhoods. You will choose between 2 amazing Kansas City neighborhoods: Strawberry Hill & Downtown KCK, or Crossroads & The Rivermarket.

American Jazz Museum

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Kansas City’s 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District. The American Jazz Museum celebrates legends like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Charlie Parker through interactive exhibits, films, and rare memorabilia. Enjoy live performances in The Blue Room, a working jazz club, or catch a show at the historic Gem Theater next door. A must-visit for music lovers and anyone curious about the roots of America’s original art form.

Service Event: Lakeside Nature Center and Trail Clean Up

Join us for a hands-on service excursion at one of Kansas City’s hidden gems dedicated to wildlife education and rehabilitation. Participants will help preserve the beauty of Swope Park by assisting with a trail clean-up and light outdoor maintenance to support the Center’s mission of protecting local habitats. After the service project, take time to explore the Center’s interactive exhibits and meet some of the resident animals being cared for by staff. This is a great opportunity to enjoy nature, give back to the community, and make a visible impact on one of KC’s most scenic outdoor spaces!