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CONFERENCE

CONFERENCE

41st Annual National Conference:

How Successful Directors Lead

About The Conference

The AELL Annual National Conference, How Successful Directors Lead is the ONE event specifically designed for early learning administrators featuring 40+ educational sessions on leadership, administration, finance, marketing, legal, and program quality presented by national experts.

2024 Conference Sponsors

CONFERENCE DETAILS

About the Conference
The AELL Annual National Conference, How Successful Directors Lead is the ONE event specifically designed for early learning administrators featuring 35+ educational sessions on leadership, administration, finance, marketing, legal, and program quality presented by national experts.

Who Should Participate?
Early Care and Education Directors, Owners, VPs & Managers, Agency Administrators, Education Coordinators, Specialists, Trainers & Consultants, Assistant Directors, and Emerging Leaders.

Where can I contact an organizer with questions?
Email us at [email protected] or call 512-316-3679. 

Are there any scholarship opportunities?
Yes! Click on the “Scholarship” tab for eligibility requirements and the opportunity to apply for the Bobette Thompson Legacy Scholarship.

Can I update my registration information?
Yes, you can update your registration information at any time! Just email [email protected] for assistance.

 

Keynote Speakers

 

Colette Carlson is a human behavior expert and CPAE Hall of Fame motivational keynote speaker who is acclaimed for her transformative approach in cultivating human-centric workplaces that turbocharge business results. Colette’s presentations captivate audiences with her unparalleled energy and humor, engaging interaction, extensive customization, research-backed strategies, and the call to action for personal and professional success.

Since founding her company, Speak Your Truth, Inc., Colette has delivered hundreds of customized keynote programs across five continents, grounded in extensive interviews with leaders, sales professionals, and frontline employees across diverse industries. Colette’s trusted clientele includes industry giants like Microsoft, Pepsi, FedEx, Exxon Mobil, Costco, Procter & Gamble, Fidelity, and Domino’s.

With a Master’s Degree in Human Behavior and more than 20 years of experience helping individuals prioritize intentional, impactful communication that builds trust, fuels engagement, and increases performance, Colette understands the skills required to thrive in today’s modern, changing world.

Colette is a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), a designation held by fewer than 10% of the members belonging to the International Federation for Professional Speakers, and was also inducted into the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame, a recognition that honors professional speakers who have reached the top echelon of career excellence.

Attendees leave Colette’s programs more inspired, more resilient, and equipped with an abundance of tangible strategies and actionable guidance designed to enhance human interactions, ultimately boosting business outcomes.

 

 

Dr. Jim Van Allan is President of The Energy Bus for Schools. He runs The Energy Bus for Schools program which gives schools the blueprint and framework to create a positive school culture. He coaches school leaders and superintendents on mindset, teamwork, communication, and culture-building. Additionally, Jim speaks to schools and districts across the country with keynotes, trainings, workshops, and student assemblies. He is the co-author of the USA Today Best-Selling book, The Energy Bus for Schools, with Jon Gordon.
 
Jim is also a Professor of Communication Studies and Lead Speech Instructor with Keiser University, which is based in Florida. He teaches Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Business Communication.
 
He earned his Ph.D in Education Leadership from Keiser University. Much of his research centered around the impact of sustainable professional development for schools.
 
He lives in Palm City, Florida, with his wife and three children.

Conference Pricing

Pre Conference Events

 

CEUs

CEUs are offered for every session at no additional cost. The Association for Early Learning Leaders has partnered with Stalwart-Genesis to provide Continuing Education Units for conference attendees.

 

PRE CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

General conference registration is required to attend pre-conference events.

 

GROUP RATES

FOR 3-DAY CONFERENCE: Register four or more directors, owners, or administrators and receive 10% discount for ALL 3-day registrationsPlease email [email protected] or call us at 512-316-3679 for a group promo code.

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION – CANCELLATION POLICY

All conference registration cancellations must be made in writing and sent to [email protected]. Cancellations received before December 31, 2024, are refundable minus a $75 processing fee. Cancellations received before February 28, 2025, are refundable minus a $125 processing fee. No-shows and cancellations received on or after March 1, 2025, will not be eligible for a refund.

REGISTRATION TRANSFERS: Registration is transferable (for up to one calendar year) without penalty, or funds can be applied to another posted AELL training event.  

PRE CONFERENCE EVENTS – CANCELLATION POLICY

Pre-Conference Sessions & Early Learning Center Tour cancellations must be made in writing and sent to [email protected]. Cancellations received before February 15, 2025, are refundable. No-shows and cancellations received on or after February 15, 2025, will not be eligible for a refund but funds can be held as a credit and must be applied to another AELL training event within 12 months.

 

PRESENCE OF CHILDREN

Our events are often blended with family vacations and we encourage and celebrate that! However, in our on-going effort to provide a professional education conference experience and out of respect for our exhibitors, speakers and attendees, we do not allow children to be in breakout sessions, keynote presentations, professional meetings, or the exhibit hall. Attendees will need to make arrangements for child care during these times.

 

2025 Conference Session Schedule

Click here to download and view the 2025 Conference Session Schedule Program!

2025 Conference Session Schedule Program

 

Pre-Conference Session: The Leadership Quotient

What does it take to lead successfully in an environment that causes most leaders to fall back, or lose ground? How do you become a leader that others truly want to follow? The business environment is evolving constantly, and the child care industry is facing disruption from all angles. But, what does it look like to become the leader that overcomes adversity, takes new ground, and develops a team that is prepared for growth and excellence? This Pre-Conference session is going to equip you with a system to grow your LQ, and step into a new phase of leadership. Our session leaders, Ben and Nicole Smithee will challenge you with new thinking and help equip you with systems, practices, and tools to become a better leader both personally and professionally.

 

Ben Smithee  |  CEO  |  The Smithee Group

Ben Smithee helps business leaders translate the future into a strategic roadmap they can start implementing today. He has been a featured speaker around the world across 6 continents and almost 30 countries. Ben has been a sought-after consultant for leading brands including McDonald’s, EA Games, Cox Automotive, Serena Williams, General Mills, ebay, Chase, Popeyes, Disney, Salesforce, and 100’s of startups and retailers. He is the CEO of The Smithee Group (TSG), a Digital Growth Agency that offers a full suite of digital marketing and media solutions that leverages their extensive expertise in research, consumer insights, and data analytics. In addition to TSG he helps lead marketing for a portfolio of organizations that leverage TSG as their foundation for growth.

 

 

 

Nicole Smithee  |  CEO  |  Smithee Media

Nicole Smithee has spent over 20 years in leadership in ministry and as an entrepreneur. She is a global speaker at conferences, churches, and events around the world. She is passionate about helping leaders thrive in their calling, and provides personal and practical coaching and community for Christian female leaders through the Lead with Love Coaching and Cohort. She is the co-author of Brilliance Awakened: 21 Devotions to Embrace Your God-Given Potential.

Together, Ben and Nicole help organizations create teams of leaders that thrive in driving success, culture, and growth. Their teachings and trainings become a force multiplier for organizational success and leadership expansion for businesses around the world.

 

 

 

Leaders’ Night Out at Disney’s Epcot – Presented by AELL & Presidents’ Legacy Commission

✨ Where Connection Meets Magic ✨

Join us April 24, 2025 for an extraordinary evening of inspiration and celebration at Disney Epcot, hosted by AELL & the Presidents’ Legacy Commission. This exclusive, paid networking event brings early education leaders together for a magical night filled with connection, community, and breathtaking entertainment.

Highlights of the Night:

🌟 Private viewing of Disney’s Luminous: The Symphony of Us at the stunning Mexico Vista. This dazzling nighttime spectacular celebrates unity and connection, making it the perfect backdrop for engaging with peers.

🍰 Indulge in a delightful selection of desserts and enjoy beverages from a cash bar as you mingle and create lasting memories.

🎟️ Your event registration includes an exclusive twilight ticket to Disney’s Epcot theme park, granting you access to explore and enjoy the park’s attractions before the evening festivities. Your twilight ticket grants you access to Epcot starting at 5:00 PM. Please plan to arrive at the Mexico Vista area by 8:00 PM for the private viewing of Luminous: The Symphony of Us.

Limited spots are available – don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to network, relax, and be inspired!

Reserve your spot here and make your Leaders’ Night Out unforgettable!

Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista

The 41st Annual National Conference will be held on April 24-26, 2025 (Pre Conference April 23rd), at the beautiful Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista located at 1751 Hotel Plaza Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL., 32830. 

HILTON ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA - DISNEY SPRINGS AREA - Updated 2024 Prices  & Resort Reviews (FL)

CLICK HERE TO BOOK!

 

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC IN ORLANDO

Magical memories begin here at Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista. As an Official Walt Disney World® Hotel, guests have access to exclusive Disney benefits, including being directly connected to Disney Springs® via Pedestrian Skybridge. With 6 on-site dining options, a 24-hour arcade, and 2 heated pools, your next Orlando getaway is sure to be memorable!

Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista - Wikipedia

HOTEL INFORMATION

Check-in: 4:00 pm ET
Check-out: 11:00 am ET
Smoke-Free Property

 

ROOM RATES

2 Double Beds – $189 per night
1 King Bed Deluxe with Sofa Bed – $189 per night

 

 

 

Flights & Transportation

The 41st Annual National Conference will be held April 24-26, 2025 (Pre Conference April 23rd), at the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista. This beautiful property is conveniently located within 25 minutes of the Orlando International Airport. We recommend using Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services for transportation to the conference hotel.

Parking

Self-parking On-site – $25.00 per day
Valet parking – $35.00

Exhibitors & Sponsors

Raise your profile at the leadership level in the early childhood community by exhibiting at the 41st Anniversary National Conference, How Successful Directors Lead!

Market your products and services to early childhood professionals who have the buying power–nearly a third of our attendees approve or authorize purchases for their program, and another third are involved in the buying process.

Our 2025 Annual National Conference Sponsor/Exhibitor Prospectus will help guide you through our event and available engagement opportunities. You can also find our exhibitor and sponsor applications here.

 

 

 

Bobette Thompson Legacy Commission Conference Scholarships

The Legacy Commission was formed by past Board Presidents of the Association with the purpose of “giving back” and supporting the mission and legacy of AELL and all it represents. As an extension of that effort, we are making available a limited number of scholarship awards for use at 41st Annual National Conference, How Successful Directors Lead.  

It is truly our joy to support the ongoing professional development of early-learning leaders like you!

Eligibility

  • Candidate must be a current member in good standing with AELL.
  • Candidate must be actively working in the field of early education.
  • Candidate must submit all required documents in a timely and complete manner.

Criteria

  • Completed scholarship application
  • Updated resume
  • Letter on company letterhead from your current employer stating why you are deserving of this scholarship
    • Employer must also affirm that applicant will be permitted to attend the conference if scholarship is awarded
  • Typewritten, double-spaced 200-word essay addressing the following questions:
    • Why have you chosen a career in Early Education?
    • What are your career goals?
    • What impact would this scholarship have on your education and career goals?

Procedure

  • Please review the eligibility requirements and submit completed application below along with requested supporting documents. Incomplete applications will not be considered for scholarship.
  • Applications will be accepted starting December 1, 2024 should be completed and submitted no later than January 31, 2025, for consideration for the 2025 Conference awards.
  • Award notifications will be made on or before February 14, 2025.

The application window for the 2025 scholarships is now closed. Thank you to all who applied!

THE CALL FOR 2025 CONFERENCE PRESENTERS IS CLOSED.

 

 

The Association for Early Learning Leaders pursues experts in the early care and education community to present sessions from a national perspective to early care and education directors, administrators, and owners at our Annual Conference, How Successful Directors Lead! The Association prides itself on the high level of quality and professionalism that is upheld throughout the conference.

Sessions incorporate the following areas of expertise: leadership, legal, business administration, budgeting, insurance-liability, health & safety, curriculum, assessment, instructional leadership, parent education, and program quality accreditation. In order to lead a quality early learning program, directors are required to have knowledge, skills, and abilities from diverse areas. Nationally known experts from across the country are secured to share a wealth of knowledge and experience with our participants.

The Association for Early Learning Leaders is a professional organization committed to strengthening the skill level of leaders in the field of early care and education. We believe that effective management is the critical link to superior programs.

The Association will accept applications for the 2025 National Conference through September 30, 2024. The requests are thoroughly reviewed, and presenters will be notified of acceptance by November 15, 2024. Presentations are to be 1 hour and 30 minutes in length. CEU applications will be sent to selected presenters by December 1, 2024, and must be completed no later than January 31, 2025.

Concessions & Honorarium: Presenters will receive complimentary conference registration and access to all conference networking events included in the conference registration.

As a gesture of appreciation from the Association for Early Learning Leaders, each lead presenter will be provided with a 1-night stay at the conference hotel and a $200 stipend. Presenters will have the option to donate their honorarium to the Presidents’ Legacy Commission to support scholarships, training and development support, and expanded resources to leaders in early care and education through the Association.

Travel and other related expenses will be the responsibility of the presenter outside of their one-night hotel stay reserved and provided for by the Association.

ACCREDITATION STANDARDS:

The Association for Early Learning Leaders sponsors the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs. If accreditation standards are referenced during the presentation, please include accreditation standards in the reference. For questions on particular standards, contact [email protected].

PROMOTING PRODUCTS AND SERVICES:

The Association for Early Learning Leaders recognizes that the National Conference is often used as a vehicle for presenters to expand their own markets.  The Association encourages the dissemination of knowledge, promoting personal and professional development, and enhancing the quality of early care and education programs.  To respectively maintain a balance of dissemination of information and marketing, presenters are encouraged to purchase an exhibit booth in the Exhibit Hall.  Interested presenters may contact Aryam Andom, Member & Event Services Coordinator, at [email protected] for reservations in the Exhibit Hall.

Please help us maintain the professional integrity of the conference by abstaining from the appearance of using your session as a marketing venue.  Presenters will not be allowed to sell, display, or promote their events, publications, materials, and/or services during their training presentation.  You will be permitted to distribute promotional materials to participants at the conclusion of your session, and our conference Ambassadors are happy to facilitate the distribution of your materials.

Failure to abide by presenter guidelines will result in your not being invited to present at future AELL training events.

 

 

The Association for Early Learning Leaders is committed to excellence in the field of early childhood care and education by promoting leadership development and enhancing program quality.

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