2026 Call for Proposals Is Now Open!
You’re solving tough challenges every day. Other disability leaders are looking for tools and tactics that truly work. If you’ve got a lesson others can use right away, submit a proposal for the 2026 Summer Leadership Institute.
Topics we’re looking for:
- Advancing Policy Change
- Building and Sustaining Organizational Capacity
- Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders
- Using AI and Tech to Drive Inclusion and Progress
What to expect:
- 75-minute, interactive sessions
- Present solo or with a co-presenter or team
- If presenting makes you nervous, you’re not alone. This is a room looking for answers, not polish.
We strongly encourage proposals from people whose lived experience and perspectives are too often missing from conference lineups, including people with disabilities, people of color, leaders from rural communities, and LGBTQIA+ people.
Deadline to submit: Friday, February 20, 2026
Why Attend?
If you lead or work in the disability field, this is where you need to be.
The Summer Leadership Institute is the premier training and professional development experience for chapter leaders and disability professionals who want to sharpen their skills, exchange real-world strategies, and prepare for what’s next. In just two and half days, you’ll connect with peers from across the country, hear from leading experts, and dive deep into what’s working—and what’s not—in our shared mission to support people with disabilities.
This conference is a tight-knit, intentional space where every conversation matters and every attendee is invested in strengthening our field.
You’ll leave recharged, informed, and ready for anything.
If you can’t join us, you can still show up for our mission by making a donation.