THIS YEAR’S EVENT IN PHOENIX, AZ FROM DECEMBER 28, 2025 TO JANUARY 1, 2026
MARCH 3, 2025
For nearly 80 years, Urbana has been one of the most influential student missions
conferences in North America, challenging and equipping young adults to step into God’s
mission. The event, which only happens every three years, will continue in a new
location: Phoenix, Arizona. Urbana 25 will also be led by a new Executive Director, Mark
Matlock, who plans to introduce innovative programming while holding fast to the vision
to inspire young people to love Jesus and go into the world as His witnesses.
At Urbana 25, Gen Z will be invited to see firsthand what is happening in the Christian
church globally and discover their role in it all. This gathering, hosted by InterVarsity
Christian Fellowship/USA, has a rich history of mobilizing generations of students and
young adults to serve Christ in every context—whether in their local communities or
across the world. For the first time, at this Urbana, all of the students will be Gen Z.
“Gen Z is stepping into the future of global missions in a way we’ve never seen before.
Their passion for Jesus, authenticity, and creativity make them uniquely equipped to take
the Gospel to the ends of the Earth and tackle the challenges of our time,” said Mark
Matlock. “Urbana 25 is an opportunity to witness what God is doing around the world and
discover how you’re uniquely designed to be part of His story.”
Urbana 2025 is designed for young adults (ages 17-28) and their leaders who are
interested in discovering their place in God’s mission. This is a unique opportunity for Gen
Z to connect with the global church, wrestle with big questions of faith and calling, and be
equipped to make a difference.
Registration for Urbana 25 is now open. Space is limited, so early sign-ups are
encouraged. Pricing will increase on May 17.
For more information and to register, visit Urbana.org
About Urbana & InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA
Since its first gathering in 1946, Urbana has been a catalyst for global missions, inspiring
tens of thousands to follow Christ into full-time ministry, global service, and faithful
witness in every sphere of life. Hosted by InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA, Urbana
is dedicated to calling each new generation to discover their part in God’s work in the
world.
About Mark Matlock:
Mark Matlock is the Executive Director of Urbana 25 for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
and a Senior Fellow at Barna. Mark’s research provides insights into younger
generations, cultivating resilient disciples, and knowing the pulse of your city. As the
founder of WisdomWorks, he has helped national and international faith-based
organizations adapt to changing times by turning data and research into strategic action.
Mark coauthored Faith for Exiles with David Kinnaman and, most recently, authored Faith
for the Curious.