Bold ideas. Real connections. Next-level leadership. What to Expect Advanced Leadership Skills: Strengthen your leadership through focused sessions on strengths-based leadership, communication, and strategic thinking. Collaborative Environment: Connect with peers and engage in facilitated discussions around real-world leadership challenges and best practices. Practical Tools and Insights: Gain actionable tools and strategies from navigating crucial conversations to building effective partnerships. Who Should Attend This event is designed for general managers and executive-level staff at public agencies. Event Sponsors Preliminary Program Agenda Sept 16, 2026 – Welcome 5:00pm – Welcome Reception Sept 17, 2026 – Individual Strengths-Based Leadership Focus 8:00am – Breakfast 9:00am – General Session: Welcome Activity & Strengths Based Leadership (StrengthsFinders) 10:30am – Networking Break 10:45am – Breakout Sessions Group 1 – Leadership Challenge (Focus: Leading Those Around You & Working with Electeds/Boards) Group 2 – Leadership Challenge (Focus: Coaching Those You Lead & Supporting Your Director) Noon – Lunch 1:00pm – General Session: Crucial Conversations & Conflict Styles 2:10pm – Breakout Sessions Group 1 – Communication & Behavior Styles Group 2 – Recognition & Motivating Those Around You 3:10pm – Breakout Sessions Group 1 – Strategic Partnerships & Coalitions Group 2 – Persuasion & Negotiation 4:15pm – Bright Spots, Highlights, & What’s on Tap for Tomorrow 4:45pm – Wrap up 5:00pm – Reception Sept 18, 2026 – Organizational Strengths-Based Strategy Focus 8:00am – Breakfast 9:00am – General Session: Strengths Based Strategic Thinking 9:25am – Breakout Sessions Group 1 –Change Catalysts & Strategic Framework Guiding Your Agency Group 2 –Change Catalysts & Strategic Framework Guiding Your Agency 10:45am – Networking Break 11:00am – Mapping Key Implementation Goals & Actions to Take Back Home 11:45am – Closing Comments Facilitators Dr. Steve Swafford, IOM, is a Balance Warrior and CEO with over 30 years of experience in non-profits, trade associations, and professional societies. His expertise spans strategy, leadership development, communication, and governance. He brings a practical knowledge of strategy and executive leadership with past organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Club Managers Association of America (CMAA), and American Subcontractors Association (ASA) where he most recently served as the executive director. Steve is active in California Society of Association Executives (CalSAE) and American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) leadership serving on the Board of Directors; Leadership Development Committee; Membership Committee Chair; Professional Development Committee Chair; Southern California Regional Council; university leadership advisor; and volunteer staff pastor. Additionally, Steve is a 15-year faculty member for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute of Management and serves on the Curriculum Committee for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and on the Board of Directors for Lambda Chi Alpha International Fraternity. Steve is Full-Time Practitioner Faculty for Pepperdine University’s Graziadio Business School and co-founder of Leadership Outfitters, LLC. Stephanie Stephens, CAE serves as Executive Director of the California Park & Recreation Society, where she leads a statewide organization serving over 4,000 members. With more than 20 years of experience in association management, Stephanie brings a strong foundation in nonprofit leadership and a genuine passion for the parks and recreation profession. As a Certified Association Executive (CAE), she oversees a $2.5 million budget and works in partnership with staff, boards, and volunteers to advance the profession through advocacy, innovation, and meaningful member engagement. She is especially passionate about the “human side” of leadership—organizational culture, board and staff dynamics, and the real-world challenges that come with evolving long-standing systems and traditions. Stephanie enjoys working with teams to strengthen collaboration, engagement, and shared purpose, and believes these elements are key to long-term success. Online Registration Now Available Space is Limited! Registration includes program materials, meals and reception. Member* $750 Non-Member $1125 REGISTER Sponsorship Opportunities General sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Joseph Ramos at josephr@acwa.com or (916) 669-2429. Sponsorship Deadline: September 4, 2026 Download Sponsorship Form ACWA now only accepts credit card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX) for payment of event registrations. We appreciate your understanding. Please contact events@acwa.com with any questions. Registration & Cancellation Deadline: September 4, 2026 Registration deadline is subject to availability and applicable health, safety and capacity restrictions. Attendee Terms & Conditions ACWA Code of Conduct *To be eligible for member pricing, you must be an ACWA Public Agency Member, Associate, or Affiliate.
