A new kind of sales conversation is taking center stage this spring at Eastern Illinois University. On May 1, 2026, the Doudna Fine Arts Center will host “Sales is Love” a full-day conference built on a simple but powerful idea: the best sales don’t feel like pressure they feel like service.
This growing regional event is already drawing strong momentum, with over $8,000 in sponsorship support from partners including the Rural King Foundation, First Mid Bank & Trust, and individual sponsors. More than 20 speakers from across the Midwest including a number of EIU alumni are set to return to campus to share insights, experiences, and practical strategies.
Redefining the Role of Sales
“Sales is Love” challenges the outdated “always be closing” mindset. Instead, the conference centers on empathy, trust, and long-term value creation—positioning sales as a discipline rooted in understanding people and solving real problems.
A Conference Built by Students, for Real Impact
What makes this event especially unique is that it is entirely planned and executed by students in EIU’s Professional Sales course, in partnership with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The conference serves as a hands-on, real-world learning experience, blending classroom theory with live execution, community engagement, and professional collaboration.
Event Highlights
Attendees can expect a high-energy, practical, and interactive experience, including:
- Keynote and featured speaker sessions
• Interactive roundtables and discussions
• Networking opportunities with regional leaders and alumni
• A live Community Impact Sales Pitch Competition
During the lunch session, both students and community members will take the stage for a fast-paced, two-minute pitch. The audience will vote to award a $500 donation to the winning organization, nonprofit, or cause—reinforcing the event’s commitment to meaningful, community-centered impact.
Event Details
- Date: May 1, 2026
• Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Tarble Arts Center, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL
