Details
The National Art Education Association (NAEA) invites state and provincial association leaders, Interest Group leaders, supervisors and administrators, and School for Art Leaders participants and alumni to gather for the 2026 National Leadership Conference (NLC), held July 24-26 in Washington, DC. This annual convening brings together art education leaders from across the country for collaborative learning, connection, and dialogue focused on strengthening effective, responsive, and innovative leadership in visual arts, design, and media arts education.
Additional details, including the full agenda and session information, will be available in Spring 2026.
The 2026 NLC will center learning across three interconnected focus areas designed to support leaders at every stage of their leadership journey:
Leading for Impact: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Art Education Programs
Sessions in this strand emphasize actionable practices that strengthen organizational systems and advance inclusive art education. Participants will explore approaches to courageous, equity-centered leadership; inclusive strategic planning; equitable resource development; and curriculum leadership that reflects diverse voices and learner needs. Additional topics include building community partnerships that expand support for marginalized learners and developing sustainable models that increase access to high-quality art education for every student.
Cultivating and Empowering Emerging Leaders in Art Education
This focus area supports the growth of future leaders through innovative mentorship structures, leadership pipeline models, peer-led initiatives, and strategies that elevate educator voices. Sessions may address inclusive leadership cultures, succession planning, and leadership development within state and local associations.
Strategic Advocacy: Leveraging Data, Storytelling, and Partnerships to Elevate the Visual Arts
Sessions in this strand equip leaders with research-based tools and strategies to effectively communicate the value of visual arts, design, and media arts education. Topics include navigating policy landscapes; using data to inform decision making; building cross-sector partnerships;engaging communities; and employing compelling storytelling to advocate for arts education at the local, state, and national levels.
Together, these learning experiences are designed to empower art education leaders to lead with purpose; build sustainable systems; and advocate effectively for equitable access to visual arts, design, and media arts education nationwide.
Event Dates
The conference begins at 8:00am on Friday, July 24, and concludes at 12:00pm on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
Location
Grand Hyatt 1000 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20001