Free Thrive Conference on April 17 highlights equity in education

Educators, administrators, students and community members are invited to explore strategies to strengthen student success, strengthen retention and build deeper engagement in education. The conference welcomes in-person and online attendees.

There’s limited space, so register today: 2026 Thrive Conference web page.

This year’s theme, “Beyond Inclusion,” features dynamic keynote speakers, interactive sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to spark new ideas and collaboration. Attendees will enjoy a networking breakfast, full-day educational sessions, lunch and a raffle.

The conference opens with a keynote from UW-Milwaukee Assistant Professor Dr. Crystasany R. Turner. A third-generation early childhood educator, Turner examines institutionalized anti-Blackness and systemic inequities affecting children and families. Her work highlights Black and Latina women in early childhood education.

UW-Madison Professor Emerita Gloria Ladson-Billings, a pioneering scholar and author of “The Dreamkeepers” and “Crossing Over to Canaan,” is the closing keynote speaker. Her research has shaped national conversations on culturally relevant teaching and advancing success for African American students.

Hosted by the Institute for Equity and Transformational Change (IETC) in the Division of Organizational Impact and Culture, the 2026 Thrive Conference creates a space to share evidence-based practices, compelling narratives and practical strategies to foster belonging and advance equity.