Leadership Connections Conference

The Leadership Connections Conference is poised to be a pivotal gathering for early childhood education (ECE) leaders across the United States, taking place at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Schaumburg, Illinois. This conference, themed Onward!, aims to unite leaders and emerging leaders in the ECEC field, emphasizing the importance of navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in early childhood education. Attendees will have the chance to engage in a variety of sessions, including keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and a Public Policy Forum, all designed to support professional growth and innovation in early childhood education and care.Among the notable speakers at this event is Shauna Ejeh, the Senior Vice President of Programs at Illinois Action for Children. Ejeh brings over 35 years of experience in nonprofit management and has been a powerful advocate for children and families in early childhood education. Another key figure is Martina Rocha, the recipient of the Inspirational Family Child Care Leader Award, who has over 21 years of experience and is recognized for her dedication to uplifting fellow child care providers. The conference will also feature several respected experts in the field, including Elliot Haspel, a family policy expert, and Dr. Teri Talan, a leader in early childhood education and policy.Attendees will enjoy comprehensive conference registration benefits, including access to all concurrent and general sessions, meals, and an attendee bag. The event also includes special networking opportunities, such as the Family Child Care Reception sponsored by Branagh Group, where family child care professionals can connect and celebrate their contributions to the field. Additionally, the McCormick Institute will honor its 2026 Inspirational Family Child Care Leader Award recipient during the Friday morning breakfast, highlighting significant contributions to early childhood education.The conference is set to provide an enriching environment with a diverse range of topics, from utilizing data for effective advocacy to creating inclusive and dynamic learning environments for all children. The sessions will be designed to provoke thought and inspire action among participants, equipping them with strategies to enhance their impact within their communities. Furthermore, the Leadership Connections Conference promotes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring all attendees have the opportunity to participate fully in this significant professional development experience. This gathering promises to be an essential platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving transformative change in early childhood education across the nation.