Behind the Curtain: A Sneak Peek at Conference Magic

The curtain is beginning to rise, and the excitement is building!

From September 30 through October 2, Adult Education professionals from across Indiana will gather at Belterra Resort for the 2026 IAACE Conference: Together, We Make Magic. While conference is still a few months away, the magic has already begun. From brand-new conference merchandise and themed dress days to an inspiring keynote speaker and an exciting lineup of educational sessions, there’s plenty to explore before you even arrive.

Here’s your exclusive sneak peek at what’s waiting behind the curtain.

---

Wear the Magic: The IAACE Swag Store Is Now Open!

What’s conference without a little IAACE spirit?

The 2026 IAACE Swag Store is officially open, and we’re excited to announce something brand new this year. For the first time ever, attendees can purchase apparel and merchandise featuring the official 2026 IAACE Conference logo.

Whether you’re looking for a comfortable sweatshirt for cool conference rooms, a favorite t-shirt to wear during themed attire days, or a keepsake to remember your conference experience, there’s something for everyone.

Even better, ordering before conference means you’ll arrive ready to show your IAACE pride from day one.

Visit the IAACE Swag Store:
https://iaace.com/swag/

Dress for the Magic

One of the traditions that makes the IAACE Conference so memorable is seeing attendees embrace our themed attire. These dress-up opportunities create instant conversation starters, plenty of smiles, and a wonderful sense of community throughout the week.

Wednesday

The Magic of Adult Education

Show your program pride by wearing apparel representing your Adult Education program, school, college, correctional education program, literacy organization, or favorite Adult Education initiative. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the incredible work happening throughout Indiana.

Wednesday Evening

Glitz & Glam

As the day’s learning concludes, it’s time to sparkle! Whether your style is elegant, classic, or simply festive, our evening celebration is the perfect opportunity to dress up and enjoy an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration.

Thursday

The Magic of You

Behind every great educator is an interesting story.

Thursday is all about celebrating the unique passions that make each of us who we are. Wear something representing your favorite hobby, sports team, musical interest, volunteer work, travel adventures, outdoor activities, artistic talents, or anything else that brings you joy.

You may discover your next conference conversation simply because someone recognizes the logo on your shirt!

Friday

The Magic of Your Favorite Hat & Traveling Gear

As conference winds down, throw on your favorite hat and your most comfortable travel attire. It’s the perfect way to wrap up three inspiring days before heading home with new ideas, new connections, and renewed energy.

Explore This Year’s Incredible Learning Opportunities

One of the greatest strengths of the IAACE Conference has always been learning from one another.

This year’s conference schedule is packed with engaging sessions designed to help Adult Education professionals grow, collaborate, and bring fresh ideas back to their classrooms and programs.

Whether your interests include:

• Classroom instruction
• Digital literacy
• Leadership development
• Career pathways
• ESL instruction
• Corrections education
• Student engagement
• Artificial Intelligence
• Workforce partnerships
• Program administration
• Assessment and data
• Professional growth
• Certiport Certification Exams

…there is something designed just for you.

Now is the perfect time to browse the schedule, identify your must-attend sessions, and begin planning your conference experience.

Preview the Conference Schedule:
Google Sheet Link

Prepare to Be Inspired by Lewis Chaney

Every great conference begins with a message that sets the tone for the days ahead, and we’re excited to welcome Lewis Chaney as our 2026 keynote speaker.

Lewis is known for connecting with audiences through authenticity, humor, and powerful storytelling. His presentations challenge participants to think differently, strengthen relationships, and embrace the impact they have on those they serve.

His message perfectly complements this year’s conference theme, Together, We Make Magic, reminding us that the extraordinary moments we create for our students happen because dedicated educators choose every day to believe in possibility.

Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime IAACE member, Lewis’s keynote promises to leave you energized, encouraged, and ready to make the most of every conference experience.

Learn More About Lewis Chaney:
https://iaace.com/2026-conferencekeynote/ 

---

Haven’t Registered Yet?

You have until August 28 the get the best price!

The IAACE Conference continues to be Indiana’s premier professional development event for Adult Education professionals, bringing together educators, administrators, support staff, community partners, workforce organizations, and literacy leaders from across the state.

Conference registration includes access to:

• Inspiring keynote presentations
• Dozens of professional learning sessions
• Networking opportunities
• Exhibitor Hall
• Evening events and celebrations
• Resources you can immediately take back to your program
• A community that believes in changing lives through education

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to register, this is it.

Register for the 2026 IAACE Conference:
https://iaace.com/2026-conference-registration/

---

The Real Magic Happens Because of You

The conference logo may appear on sweatshirts.

The stage may feature lights and music.

The sessions may be carefully planned.

But the true magic of the IAACE Conference has never been found in the decorations or the agenda.

It’s found in the hallway conversations that spark new ideas.

It’s found in educators sharing strategies that transform classrooms.

It’s found in the partnerships that begin over coffee.

It’s found in celebrating colleagues who inspire us.

Most importantly, it’s found in the thousands of Adult Education students whose lives are changed because educators like you choose to learn, grow, collaborate, and serve.

Every lesson you teach…

Every barrier you help a student overcome…

Every milestone you celebrate…

That’s the real magic.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Belterra this fall as we come together once again to learn, connect, celebrate, and remind one another why Adult Education is one of the most meaningful professions there is.

Together, We Make Magic.