2026 Conference Planning Committee
Committee Description:
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.” — Shirley Chisholm ~1972
We're dreaming big for the 2026 NACE Conference, celebrating 70 years of achievement, and we want YOU to help make it unforgettable! Join us in creating a dynamic event filled with professional development, networking, and fun, offering attendees valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
The key focus of this committee will be reviewing and selecting proposals for concurrent sessions, with about 1 in 4 sessions typically making it to the final slate due to the high volume of submissions.
Join the 2026 NACE Conference Planning Committee and be part of something truly special as we shape the future of talent development, college-to-career pathways, and workforce solutions in the heart of Denver!
Goals:
The Committee will work to ensure outcomes in support of the NACE Strategic Plan with a focus on the following goals:
• Champion Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Champion equitable support, representation, and opportunities for all.
• Lead Dialogue: Amplify the importance of the work of NACE and the professions by leading the dialogue among colleges, employers, policy makers, and the public.
• Provide quality research, content and programming: Increase member value through progressive research, content, and programming that address the needs of our field.
• Expand and cultivate community: Grow and diversify membership and increase audience participation, sense of belonging, and engagement.
Committee Charge(s):
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.” — Shirley Chisholm ~1972
We're dreaming big for the 2026 NACE Conference, celebrating 70 years of achievement, and we want YOU to help make it unforgettable! Join us in creating a dynamic event filled with professional development, networking, and fun, offering attendees valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
The key focus of this committee will be reviewing and selecting proposals for concurrent sessions, with about 1 in 4 sessions typically making it to the final slate due to the high volume of submissions.
Join the 2026 NACE Conference Planning Committee and be part of something truly special as we shape the future of talent development, college-to-career pathways, and workforce solutions in the heart of Denver!
Timeframe:
7/1/2025 to 6/30/2026
• Committee Kickoff: We’ll get started in early-to-mid August 2025 with an initial meeting to set expectations and establish a regular meeting cadence.
• Ongoing Participation: Actively engage in monthly conference calls from August 2025 – May 2026, with potential opportunity for local or Denver-based members to meet in person.
• As needed: Sub-Committee Work: Participate in specialized sub-committee meetings as needed to support specific areas of the conference planning.
Deliverables Expected:
All Committee Members
• Collaborate with NACE Staff:
o Work alongside NACE staff to provide feedback and ideas for creating an inclusive, engaging, and exciting conference experience that serves members at all levels.
• Review Conference Submissions:
o Evaluate 50-70 conference session proposals to ensure content is inclusive, diverse, and will provide meaningful learning outcomes for all attendees.
• Boost Conference Buzz:
o Be a social media champion! Help build excitement before the conference and drive attendee registrations through high-energy, engaging content.
o Generate buzz during the event by promoting conference highlights and encouraging interaction from attendees.
Subcommittee: First-Time Experience
• Create a Virtual Orientation:
o Work with NACE staff to deliver a virtual session for attendees ahead of the conference. Get them excited about what to expect and what they can gain from the experience.
• Host a First-Time Attendees’ Session:
o Welcome newcomers with a session designed to guide first-time attendees on how to make the most of their time at the conference. Help them navigate the NACE community and maximize their professional development.
• Leverage NACE’s Past Experience:
o Work with the NACE Staff Advisor to review past feedback and understand what members have valued in previous conferences. Use this information to inform event ideation.
Subcommittee: Bring Denver to Life:
• Identify and reach out to local NACE members (and non-members) to host site visits that showcase the unique local talent and opportunities Denver has to offer.
• Contribute ideas for local entertainment, networking events, and theming to make the conference truly memorable.
• If Needed: Coordinate Volunteers for Conference Support:
Help organize and coordinate volunteers who will assist with various aspects of the conference experience, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Number of Volunteers Needed:
20
QUESTIONS?
Contact Cecelia Nader, Senior Executive and Volunteer Administrator at cnader@naceweb.org.