2025 National Conference

The National Conference will kick off in the afternoon on Monday, July 21, and why not arrive in Fort Worth a little early? Participate in a half-day pre-conference workshop to hone your leadership skills or participate in an adventurous excursion.  

Learn about all the pre-conference opportunities and register for something of interest here.

On Monday, July 21, Dr. Shideh Shafie will take the stage as our Opening Session Speaker at the ALP National Conference in Fort Worth! 

A double board-certified physician in Emergency Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine, Dr. Shafie is also a professional performance coach who helps leaders turn stress into strength. With deep expertise in neuroplasticity and stress management, she equips high achievers with the tools to maintain peak performance without burnout. Her Keynote session, "Leading Without Breaking," is a must-attend!

In this fast-paced and interactive session, you’ll discover the science behind stress and leadership resilience. You’ll learn why your brain sometimes works against you—triggering reactivity instead of clear thinking - and how to re-engage your executive brain when the pressure is on. We’ll break down the difference between stressors and stress - and why solving the problem isn’t enough if you don’t process the stress itself.
 
Through practical, science-backed strategies, you’ll gain powerful techniques to reset your nervous system, regain your capacity, and show up as the leader you want to be. Expect engaging discussions, real-world insights, and hands-on exercises that will leave you with a personalized plan to manage stress, boost resilience, and lead without burning out. If you’re ready to lead smarter - not just harder - this is the session you can’t afford to miss if you're ready to lead change and leave changed. 

Dr. Shideh Shafie is an assistant professor of Emergency Medicine at Brown University’s Warren Alpert School of Medicine, and works at the Providence Community Health Center serving a quarter of the city’s most vulnerable populations. In addition, to her clinical role, and coaching business She also serves on the boards of the Rhode Island Economic Progress Institute and the Providence Preservation Society, and is the consulting physician for the Gordon School. When not working you can find her hiking, throwing around kettlebells, or enjoying all the mischief involved with raising her twins and her beloved pup- Truman.

Aiko Bethea will join us on Tuesday, July 22, to kick off our first full day of conference programming. 

Aiko is the founder of RARE Coaching & Consulting, a leadership development firm that guides leaders to successfully navigate today's workplace with more impactful approaches to leadership. She and her bench of over executive coaches and facilitators of color support leaders and teams of Fortune 100 companies, research and academic institutes, and global non-profit organizations. Aiko has successfully navigated leadership roles in government, philanthropic, nonprofit, and the private sector. After practicing law at a global firm, she led legal teams at the City of Atlanta under the leadership of Stacey Abrams. She then served as Director of Compliance for the City of Atlanta and as a Deputy Director at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Aiko has been recognized by Forbes as one of the top seven anti-racism educators for companies. She contributed to the New York Times best-selling anthology You Are Your Best Thing, and her writing has been published by Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and other notable outlets. Aiko also serves as a Senior Leadership Consultant for the Brené Brown Education and Research Group and a faculty member of the Hudson Institute of Coaching in Santa Barbara. She holds a bachelor's degree from Smith College and earned her law degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Through her work, she coaches leaders and organizations to remove the internal and external barriers to inclusion, allowing them to understand each other as people, colleagues, and teams in more connected ways. During her childhood and throughout her career, Aiko has been in places where people who looked like her were underrepresented. She believes that when you anchor into your values and discover your voice, you can begin to live the life you want to live and be exactly who you want to be. Aiko is an alumna of the Leadership Atlanta program, and we cannot wait to welcome her to Fort Worth, Texas!

In 2025, Penguin Random House will release her upcoming book on transformative leadership.

On Thursday, July 24, Jonathan R. Parker and Karrie Sullivan will take the stage for a powerful general session as we close out our time together at the 2025 ALP National Conference.

In a world where artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, lead, and connect, this session, Amplified Humanity: Using the AI Compass to Guide with Intelligence and Heart, asks a vital question: Will 2025 mark AI’s shift to deeply personal leadership?

Jonathan and Karrie will guide participants through an interactive, hands-on session that bridges the gap between rapidly advancing technology and the irreplaceable human touch. This isn’t about tech for tech’s sake - it’s about harnessing AI to enhance empathy, ethics, and authentic leadership.

We’ll explore:
•    How to use AI for personalized professional growth
•    Practical ways to build stronger human connections in a digital world
•    Tools to navigate the ethical complexities of emerging technologies
•    Strategies to ensure technology amplifies, not replaces, our humanity

Jonathan R. Parker is a nationally acclaimed speaker, TEDx presenter, and the author of Art of the Conversation. As Managing Partner at NxTrek, he empowers leaders of private and family-owned businesses to thrive through intentional connection and clarity.

Karrie Sullivan is an award-winning transformation and M&A strategist with expertise in AI adoption and organizational psychology. From Fortune 500s to fast-growing firms, she and her team at Culminate Strategy Group help companies drive results by aligning AI and human potential.

Together, they’ll offer an energizing roadmap to help you lead with both intelligence and heart, equipping you with the insight and tools to navigate change with confidence and compassion.

On Thursday, July 24, C. Marie Taylor will take the stage as our final general session speaker! C. Marie is the founder of Equity Through Action, a consulting firm committed to advancing workplace equity through transforming culture, practices, and policies. With over 25 years of leadership experience, she is renowned for her expertise in developing innovative programs, crafting adult learning curricula, providing strategic guidance, and delivering impactful executive coaching for organizations focused on social change. As a Certified Professional Diversity Coach, C. Marie brings a thoughtful and strategic approach to helping leaders navigate complex challenges, enhance leadership effectiveness, and cultivate inclusive work environments.

Her coaching philosophy is rooted in emotional intelligence and actionable strategies. She blends a deep understanding of organizational dynamics with practical tools to drive personal and professional growth. As Principal Consultant at Equity Through Action, C. Marie works with organizations to build equitable systems and drive sustainable impact. She also serves as a program consultant for Leadership Tomorrow, leading sessions on leadership development, civic engagement, and sector collaboration.

Her session, "Constructively Engaging in Difficult Conversations: Tools for Inclusive Leadership," will be a dynamic and interactive session designed for leaders committed to building equitable and respectful environments. Navigating difficult conversations is a critical skill for leaders who want to foster inclusion and collaboration. In this session, participants will gain practical tools and strategies to engage in constructive dialogue on challenging topics like diversity, inclusion, and conflict resolution. Through real-world scenarios, guided discussions, and hands-on activities, attendees will learn how to lead with confidence, reduce defensiveness, and create spaces where all voices are heard.

You’ll leave this session with a practical framework to foster open dialogue, address tensions effectively, and build a culture of psychological safety and trust within your organization. Whether you’re managing workplace challenges, leading diverse teams, or facilitating community discussions, this workshop will provide you with proven techniques to move conversations from conflict to connection - transforming discomfort into opportunities for growth and collaboration. Don’t miss this high-energy, solution-focused session that will leave you empowered to engage in the conversations that matter most. If you're ready to lead change and leave changed, join us for this invaluable opportunity!

Fort Worth is easy to reach by air, rail, or highway. The convenient Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is just 25 minutes from downtown Fort Worth and offers nonstop air service from more than 260 destinations worldwide, making it a major hub for both domestic and international travelers. Dallas Love Field (DAL), located 35 minutes from Fort Worth, provides additional flight options, including Southwest Airlines service.

Arriving by train is another convenient option, as Amtrak’s Texas Eagle line stops at the historic Fort Worth Central Station in the heart of downtown, making it easy to get to conference activities and nearby attractions.

Driving to Fort Worth Situated in North Texas, Fort Worth is within a manageable drive for many ALP members. For those looking to avoid the airport, consider a scenic road trip through Texas and neighboring states!

• Dallas, TX - 35 minutes
• Austin, TX - 3 hours
• Oklahoma City, OK - 3 hours
• Houston, TX - 4 hours
• San Antonio, TX - 4.5 hours
• Little Rock, AR - 5.5 hours
• Shreveport, LA - 3 hours
• Albuquerque, NM - 9 hours

Learn more about planning your travel

Whether you’re flying, taking the train, or driving in, Fort Worth’s central location and welcoming vibe make it an ideal destination for the 2025 ALP National Conference. Get ready to enjoy a memorable visit to the heart of Texas!

The 2025 ALP National Conference promises to be an extraordinary event filled with networking opportunities, insightful discussions, and impactful experiences. We encourage all attendees to extend their stay and explore the vibrant city of Fort Worth and the wider North Texas area. Known for its rich Western heritage, cultural landmarks, and warm hospitality, Fort Worth offers so much to enjoy beyond the conference. Whether you’re bringing family or colleagues, staying a few days before or after the conference will give you ample time to experience all that Fort Worth has to offer. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your extended visit: 

• Dive into Fort Worth’s Western heritage: Fort Worth, known as Cowtown, is home to a rich Western legacy that’s uniquely Texas. Visit the historic Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of cowboy culture, complete with cattle drives, rodeos, and Western-themed shops. Explore the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, or take in a live rodeo for an authentic Texas experience.

• Explore the cultural district: Fort Worth’s Cultural District is a must-see, featuring world-class museums and art galleries. Visit the Kimbell Art Museum, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, all located within walking distance of each other. With its vibrant arts scene, Fort Worth offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in culture.

• Savor Texas cuisine: North Texas cuisine is a flavorful blend of Tex-Mex, Southern comfort food, and, of course, Texas barbecue. Try the local favorite, a traditional Texas BBQ brisket, or indulge in some authentic Tex-Mex. The Fort Worth Stockyards and the lively Sundance Square area are brimming with local restaurants and eateries where you can experience the true flavors of Texas.

• Discover the great outdoors: Fort Worth and the surrounding area offer beautiful parks, lakes, and nature preserves for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Trinity Trails for walking, running, or biking along the Trinity River, or visit the Fort Worth Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat. Nearby Eagle Mountain Lake is a great spot for boating, fishing, or picnicking.

• Family-friendly attractions: If you’re traveling with family, Fort Worth has plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages. Spend a day at the Fort Worth Zoo, ranked among the best in the nation, or visit the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, which offers engaging exhibits for children and adults alike. Don’t miss the famous Fort Worth Water Gardens, a unique urban park with interactive water features.

• Day trips and regional highlights: Take a day trip to nearby Dallas for additional museums, shopping, and culinary experiences. Visit the historic Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about the legacy of President John F. Kennedy, or explore the scenic Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

By extending your stay in Fort Worth, you’ll find the perfect balance between attending the 2025 ALP National Conference and discovering the best of Texas. Make the most of your time in Fort Worth—experience the spirit, flavors, and culture that make this city unforgettable!

A portion of all 2025 National Conference Sponsorship revenue will be placed in the ALP Leadership Program Assistance Fund, alongside contributions from ALP National Conference registrants. Programs that cannot cover the total cost of conference registration can apply for registration fee assistance.

Each eligible registrant may receive a maximum benefit of 50% of the registration fee, which is limited to one individual per organization.

Learn more and apply for assistance here.

The ALP National Conference offers a unique experience for Community Leadership Program professionals and alumni seeking to deepen their impact. The 2025 ALP National Conference will be packed with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow as leaders alongside peers from across the nation. Here are the top reasons why you should attend and invest in this opportunity to advance your skills, strengthen your network, and gain the practical tools you need to continue to drive meaningful change in your community.

• Build Lasting Connections – Network with professionals from the community leadership programming industry and forge meaningful, supportive relationships that extend beyond the conference.

• Gain Practical Tools and Strategies – Access workshops and sessions packed with actionable strategies you can immediately apply to foster positive change in your program and community.

• Advance Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership – Learn from diverse voices and explore inclusive practices to create more equitable, representative leadership models.

• Engage in Intergenerational Dialogue – Connect with both emerging and experienced leaders, benefiting from mutual learning and ensuring continuity in leadership best practices.

• Strengthen Resilience and Adaptability – Acquire guidance on building resilience and adapting leadership approaches to meet the ever-evolving needs of your program and community.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving – Participate in sessions designed to harness diverse perspectives and collectively address common challenges facing community leaders today.

• Leave Inspired and Transformed – Immerse yourself in a transformative experience that will expand your leadership perspective, equip you with new skills, and ignite your drive to lead change.

• Stay at the Forefront of Community Leadership – Be part of a dynamic environment that empowers you to lead change and leave changed.