HackHounds 2026

HackHounds ’26 is Loyola University Maryland’s annual 24‑hour hackathon where students from any school come together to build, learn, and create. Whether you’re a first‑time hacker or an experienced developer, HackHounds is designed to be welcoming, beginner‑friendly, and packed with opportunities to explore new technologies, meet collaborators, and ship something you’re proud of.

Across a full weekend of hacking, workshops, speakers, and community events, participants choose from six tracks — Finance, AI/ML, Health, General, Hardware, and Cybersecurity — or build anything they’re passionate about. With mentors on site, hands‑on sessions, and a supportive environment, HackHounds empowers students to experiment boldly and bring ideas to life.

What makes HackHounds special is its culture: a high‑energy, student‑run event built around collaboration, creativity, and accessibility. From late‑night game tournaments to industry speakers and a full project expo, the experience is designed to be both fun and impactful. And with prizes across every track — plus awards for Best Overall and Best Everyday Use — there’s room for every kind of builder to shine.

Morning

• 8–9 AM — Check‑In

• 9–9:30 AM — Opening Ceremony

• 9:30–10 AM — Team Formation

• 10 AM — Hacking Begins

• 10 AM — Speaker #1: Miles Hall & Kelechi Opurum — “AI / Vercel”

Afternoon

• 12–1 PM — Brunch

• 1–2 PM — Speaker #2: Quiana Bannerman — “The Future of Work & Learning with AI”

• 2:15–5 PM — Workshop

Evening

• 6–7 PM — Dinner

• 7–8 PM — Speaker / Panel

• 9 PM–12 AM — Nintendo Game Night + Board Games + Hacking

Late Night

• 12–12:30 AM — Midnight Snack

• 1–7 AM — Overnight Hacking

Morning

• 7–8 AM — Breakfast

• 8–10 AM — Final Sprint

• 10 AM — Hacking Ends

• 10–10:30 AM — Submissions & Presentations

• 10:30 AM–12 PM — Project Demos

• 12–1 PM — Lunch

• 12–2 PM — Judging

Afternoon

• 1–2 PM — Career Center Workshop

• 3–4 PM — Awards Ceremony

• 4:15 PM — Event Ends