When
November 7-9, 2025
How Much?
Early Bird Price $150
by Saturday October 4 at 11:59pm CST
Regular Price $180
by Saturday October 18 at 11:59pm CST​
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Late Price $200
after Saturday October 18
Who's Going?
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Indiana University
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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
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University of Illinois
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University of Minnesota
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and more!
What is Vision?
Vision Conference is a weekend where we come together to remember how Jesus has shown himself to be Good News for peoples of African descent, given the specific spiritual and systemic injustice issues we face today. If you need God to refresh and rejuvenate your soul with a time of re-connection, support, good Word and good worship, this is the conference for you!
Meet the Team
Geno Olison
​Geno Olison is the lead pastor of the South Suburban Vineyard Church, just outside of Chicago. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Geno is passionate about multiethnic and multicultural ministry. As a college student, Geno was a part of InterVarsity at the University of Illinois. Alongside pastoring, Geno is a musician, producer, and songwriter who helped develop Vineyard Soul, a multicultural, gospel-leaning expression of worship music. Through it all, Geno’s deepest joy is found at home—parenting four amazing boys with his wife, Shannon.
Smiley Abrams
Smiley (Jason) Abrams is an inspirational speaker, poet, and leader whose name reflects the joy and hope he finds in God despite life’s brokenness. Born and called to Mississippi, he has over 15 years of ministry experience and serves as Area Director with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, guiding college ministries across Mississippi, Memphis, and West Florida with a special focus on HBCUs.
Ricardo Rivers
Ricardo Rivers is a dynamic singer, songwriter, producer, and film director whose distinctive artistry is defined by his signature “Urbanistique Sound”—a fusion of striking harmonies, soulful storytelling, and inspiring energy.
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Rivers has been a driving force in music for over 20 years. Beyond the stage, Rivers serves as a dedicated Music Minister and community leader, using his voice and platform to empower youth and contribute to meaningful collaborations.
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SchedulE
NOTE: CENTRAL TIME ZONE
Friday
evening
From Seed to Sower
Welcome to Vision!
saturday morning
From Seed to Sower
TBD
saturday Evening
From Seed to Sower
TBD
sunday
morning
From Seed to Sower
TBD
 Vision19-70 |  BCM4 |  Vision19-9 |  Vision19-158 |
|---|---|---|---|
 Vision19-41 |  Vision19-174 |  Vision19-134 |  Vision19-101 |
 Vision19-1 |  BCM3 |  BCM2 |  Vision19-169 |
 BCM1 |  Vision19-68 |  Vision19-111 |  Vision19-4 |
Vision19-158 |  Vision19-190 | BCM4 |  Vision19-47 |
BCM3 |  Vision19-12 |  Vision19-2 | BCM2 |
 Vision19-116 | Vision19-134 | BCM1 |  Vision19-150 |
 Vision19-32 | BCM3 |  Vision19-52 |  Vision19-38 |
BCM1 |  Vision19-125 |  Vision19-126 | BCM2 |
 Vision19-129 | BCM4 |  Vision19-163 |  Vision19-118 |
 Vision19-75 |  Vision19-162 | BCM3 |  Vision19-181 |
FAQ
How do I get there?
The conference is located in Joliet, IL on the southwest side of Chicago. We'll be at the Messiah Lutheran Church, 40 Houbolt Rd., Joliet, IL 60431. Your best bet is to drive to the conference with friends. If you don't have access to a car, talk to your InterVarsity staff worker to help arrange transportation.
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How much does it cost?
You can register with a $20 non-refundable deposit. If you register before 11:59pm on October 4, you'll lock in the early bird rate of $150. After October 4, the total cost goes up to $180. Cost includes hotel, all meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. Cost does not include transportation to and from the conference or other meals, so coordinate with the friends you're traveling with or work out a transportation plan with your InterVarsity staff.
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I can't pay for it...what should I do?
Don't let money keep you from coming to Vision! We have scholarship money available to help you make it work. Talk to your InterVarsity staff about scholarships that may be available. If that doesn't work, contact our registrar using the email form below. We'll work with you to make a way!
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What if I have to cancel?
If you have to cancel, you have until the day of the conference to let a staff know. Unfortunately, the deposit is non-refundable, but if you've already paid your full balance, we'll be glad to refund the rest.
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How does housing work? Can I choose my roommates?
Housing is at Best Western Joliet Inn and Suites, 4380 Enterprise Dr, Joliet, IL 60431. Housing is four per room and will be assigned by campus or area. If you have a specific request or particular needs, just use the contact form below to get in touch with our registrar.
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When should I arrive? When will we be done?
Plan to arrive between 6-7pm CT on Friday November 7 so that you can get registered and settled. Be sure to eat dinner before arriving. Our first session starts at 7:30pm CT. We'll wrap up by noon on Sunday November 9 and you can grab lunch on your way back to campus.
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I have more questions!
No problem. Just fill out the contact form below and we'll be happy to help!
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Contact Us
Got questions? We can help! Use this email form to get in touch with our conference registrar and you'll hear back shortly. In the meantime, have you checked out the FAQ? You may find your answer there!
Ready to sign up?
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