Omaha 2026
Join us in Omaha, Nebraska, for the 2026 ALP National Conference!
Set along the Missouri River, Omaha is a city where innovation meets community spirit, making it the perfect backdrop for our annual gathering. Known for its welcoming hospitality, thriving arts scene, and revitalized riverfront, Omaha offers a blend of big-city energy and small-town charm. From the historic Old Market district filled with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and restaurants, to world-class attractions like the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, Omaha has something for everyone to enjoy.
We are proud to partner with the Greater Omaha Chamber, whose commitment to fostering leadership, economic vitality, and community connections makes Omaha the ideal host city for the best ALP National Conference yet! Together, we’ll embrace the theme “Bridging Connections. Building Community."
Mark your calendars and get ready to experience all that Omaha has to offer: vibrant neighborhoods, a flourishing culinary scene, and the unmatched warmth of Midwestern hospitality. We can’t wait to see you there! This dynamic city, rooted in connection and collaboration, will provide an inspiring setting for the 2026 National Conference.
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM/ORGANIZATION PRICING
| Registration Period | Member | Member Early Bird 2+ | Non-Member |
| March 2 - April 24, 2026 | $639 | $619/ea | $819 |
| April 25 - June 12, 2026 | $679 | Early Bird Only | $879 |
| Daily Rate | $289 | - | $349 |
Between March 2 and April 24, ALP members who register two or more attendees are eligible for the 2+ member discount of $619 each.
View a one-page pricing guide here.
We can't wait to welcome you to Omaha!
ALUMNI ATTENDEE PRICING
Graduates of Community Leadership Programs (CLPs) from around the United States and beyond are invited to attend the 2026 ALP National Conference. Graduates of CLPs are eligible for the ALP member price if their program is a member of the Association of Leadership Programs.
To verify if your associated organization is a member of ALP, please contact events@alpleaders.org.
Graduates of programs who are not members of ALP are invited to join us at the non-member price.
The conference host hotel is the Hilton Omaha.
A guest room block with a special room night rate of $209/night will be available until it's sold out or June 19, 2026, whichever comes first. Booking within our designated block not only ensures you’re close to all the action, but it also helps ALP meet our hotel commitment and avoid attrition fees. By reserving in the block, you’re directly supporting ALP’s ability to bring you future events and keep registration costs down.
All conference activities, except for the Welcome Reception, occur at the Hilton. All workshops and the meals included in registration are held onsite in the Hilton's event space.
Kick off the 2026 ALP National Conference at the Kiewit Luminarium, Omaha’s interactive science and discovery museum along the RiverFront. Join us on Monday, July 13 from 6:00–8:00 PM for an evening of connection, exploration, and local flavor. Enjoy food and drinks inspired by Omaha, engage with hands-on exhibits, and take in the energy of this one-of-a-kind space. It’s the perfect way to ease into the week, connect with peers from across the country, and spark new conversations in a setting designed for curiosity and discovery.
CONFERENCE DETAILS
The National Conference will kick off in the afternoon on Monday, July 13, and why not arrive in Omaha a little early? Participate in a half-day pre-conference opportunity!
Learn about all the pre-conference opportunities and register for something of interest here.
| Monday, July 13 | |
10:00 AM - 2:30 PM Excursions - Details Coming Soon! | |
| Tuesday, July 14 | |
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Breakfast Buffet Available | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Buffet Breakfast Available | |
| Thursday, July 16 | |
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM Breakfast Buffet Available | |
| All schedule details are tentative and subject to change |
Nicole M. Bianchi
As the founder of Bravership® (Bravery + Leadership), Nicole Bianchi has spent her life helping leaders rise—from inside the boardroom leading transformations in Fortune 500 companies to global stages and audiences, her message has become a movement. Not by playing it safe, but by choosing courage over comfort, clarity over chaos, and purpose over fear.
Recognized for transforming leadership and team dynamics through her engaging approach and actionable strategies, Nicole inspires leaders to foster a culture of bravery and authenticity by turning tough conversations into opportunities for growth and using bravery as a competitive advantage.
Nicole is a truth-teller, a fire-starter, and a fiercely compassionate guide for leaders and teams who are ready to do the inner work that fuels outer impact. When the stakes are high and brave leadership is the difference between misalignment and momentum, Nicole is the speaker they call to turn insight into action, and action into measurable results. Get ready to be challenged, inspired, and moved—because when Nicole speaks, things shift.
PJ Diamond
PJ Diamond is a globally experienced educator and relational leader with 15 years of experience designing people-centered learning across higher education, nonprofit, and corporate spaces. She is known for creating meaningful dialogue that builds trust, bridges differences, and helps communities move from shared values to collective action. PJ has partnered with leaders and communities across Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and Latin America, bringing a strong cross-cultural and relationship-driven approach to leadership development.
She holds a Master’s degree in Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish from the University of Pittsburgh, is certified to teach English as a Second or Foreign Language, and is a co-founder of the nonprofit Queer Bozeman. PJ currently serves in leadership roles with the Rotary Club of Austin and the Association of Leadership Programs, and supports The Black Fund of Central Texas, with a continued focus on strengthening communities and cultivating inclusive leadership.
Late Nights at the Zoo
Guests ages 21+ can explore the Zoo in a different perspective as the zoo comes alive after hours. Guests can enjoy a quieter, more intimate atmosphere while learning fascinating facts from expert guides and observing animal behaviors rarely seen during the day.
Sip, stroll, and connect as you experience returning favorites like Zoo-tique, a market featuring local creators, music bingo, and special appearances by Ambassador Animals.
Time: 7:00 PM CT - 9:00 PM CT
Cost: $30 (includes one drink ticket)
Please register by June 15 to guarantee a ticket!
Getting to Omaha
Omaha is easy to reach by air or highway, making travel simple for ALP members from across the country.
By Air
The convenient Eppley Airfield (OMA) is located just 10 minutes from downtown Omaha and offers nonstop service to more than 30 major U.S. cities. With quick access to the city center and short security lines compared to larger hubs, OMA makes arrival smooth and stress-free. There are currently modernization projects impacting the airport roads, but travel is still easy and convenient.
For attendees traveling internationally, connecting through major hubs such as Chicago, Denver, Dallas, or Minneapolis makes Omaha easily accessible.
By Car
Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Omaha is within a comfortable driving distance for many ALP members. If you prefer to skip the airport, a road trip through America’s heartland might be the perfect way to kick off your conference experience.
- Lincoln, NE – 1 hour
- Des Moines, IA – 2 hours
- Kansas City, MO – 3 hours
- Sioux Falls, SD – 3 hours
- Minneapolis, MN – 5.5 hours
- St. Louis, MO – 6.5 hours
- Chicago, IL – 7 hours
- Denver, CO – 8 hours
The 2026 ALP National Conference in Omaha 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 Omaha and the surrounding region. Known for its welcoming spirit, thriving arts scene, and rich Midwestern heritage, Omaha 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 Omaha has to offer. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your extended visit:
Explore the Historic Old Market District
The heart of downtown Omaha, the Old Market is known for its cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, boutique shops, galleries, and locally owned restaurants. It’s the perfect place to stroll, dine, and soak in the city’s charm. Just steps away, the newly revitalized Gene Leahy Mall offers green space, riverfront views, and a beautiful setting for an evening walk.Visit a World-Class Zoo
Omaha is home to the internationally acclaimed Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, consistently ranked among the best zoos in the world. From the iconic Desert Dome to the indoor rainforest and aquarium, it’s an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.Experience Omaha’s Cultural Scene
Omaha’s arts and culture scene is vibrant and accessible. Visit the beautifully renovated Joslyn Art Museum, catch a performance at the historic Orpheum Theater, or enjoy a show at the Holland Performing Arts Center. Contemporary art lovers will appreciate the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, a nationally recognized creative hub.Savor Omaha’s Food Scene
Omaha is famous for its steaks, but the culinary scene goes far beyond that. From classic steakhouses to innovative farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafés, and a growing craft brewery scene, there’s something for every palate. The Old Market and surrounding downtown neighborhoods offer plenty of local favorites to explore.Discover Riverfront Views & Outdoor Spaces
Take a walk across the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, where you can stand in both Nebraska and Iowa at once. Enjoy the scenic riverfront parks, including Heartland of America Park, or visit Lauritzen Gardens for beautifully curated botanical displays and peaceful walking paths.Day Trips & Regional Highlights
Omaha’s central location makes it easy to explore beyond the city. Visit nearby Council Bluffs, Iowa, explore charming small towns, or enjoy the rolling landscapes and wineries of eastern Nebraska. The region offers a relaxed pace and authentic Midwestern hospitality.
ALP Conference attendees will be able to access exclusive savings with Visit Omaha's Show Your Badge program. View savings opportunities here.
By extending your stay in Omaha, you’ll find the perfect balance between attending the 2026 ALP National Conference and discovering the best of Omaha and the surrounding region. Make the most of your time in Omaha—experience the spirit, flavors, and culture that make this city unforgettable!
The ALP National Conference offers a unique experience for Community Leadership Program professionals and alumni seeking to deepen their impact. The 2026 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 bridge connections and build community.
Sponsors
View available sponsorship opportunities here.
Community Leadership Program Host Partner: Greater Omaha Chamber + Leadership Omaha
Presented in Partnership with the National Leadership Network
| Leadership Omaha | Alexander Cayetano |
| Leadership Omaha | Daniela Rojas Florez |
| Business High Point-Chamber of Commerce | Quineece Huntley |
| CIVIC Leadership Institute | Tage S. Counts |
| Cleveland Leadership Center | Becky Ruppert McMahon |
| Greater Baltimore Leadership | Loree Clarke |
| Hall County Leadership Unlimited, Inc | Jessica Hendricks |
| Hall County Leadership Unlimited, Inc | Samantha Moss |
| Hall County Leadership Unlimited, Inc | Maria Vasquez |
| Joy Reeves | Joy Reeves |
| Kansas Leadership Center | Racquel Thiesen |
| Lakeland Chamber of Commerce | Takiyah Dixon |
| Lead DSM | Amy Jennings |
| Lead New Jersey | Jennifer Bredehoft |
| Leadership Akron | Henry Johnson Jr. |
| Leadership Akron | Stephanie Smith |
| Leadership Alamance | Logan Garrison Savits |
| Leadership Austin | PJ Diamond |
| Leadership Cobb | Kai Lawrence |
| Leadership Delaware County | Mike Morgan |
| Leadership Fort Worth | Paola Arreguin-Gonzalez |
| Leadership Fort Worth | Jennifer Trevino |
| Leadership Grand Rapids | Rick Treur |
| Leadership Greater Madison | Lynn Wood |
| Leadership Jacksonville, Inc. | Nicole Bryan |
| Leadership Lincoln, Inc. | Mick Hale |
| Leadership Macomb, Inc. | Karen Smith |
| Leadership Montgomery County | Sarah Rhea |
| Leadership Nashville | Liz Josey |
| Leadership Nebraska | Tara Lea |
| Leadership North Houston | Sasha Smith |
| Leadership Orlando | Nate Edmund |
| Leadership Pittsburgh Inc. | Krissy DeShetler |
| Leadership Southwest Louisiana | Michelle McInnis |
| Leadership Spokane | Jaxon Riley |
| Leadership Tallahassee | Dan McGrew |
| Leadership Tennessee | Alfred Degrafinreid II |
| Leadership Washington County | Tara Sargent |
| Leadership Unlimited, OH | Angie Cirone |
| Ottumwa Leadership Academy | Hollie Tometich |
| Valdez Thompson Consulting LLC | Linda Thompson |
- Amazon
- Aurora Chamber of Commerce
- Blue Pen Rose
- Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
- Boys Town
- Centurions Leadership Program
- Cleveland Leadership Center
- Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce
- Elevate Rapid City
- Fayette Chamber of Commerce
- FOCUS St. Louis
- Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce
- Griff Hall Strategic Leadership
- Hall County Leadership Unlimited, Inc
- Iowa State University Extension
- Kansas Leadership Center
- LEAD Brevard
- Lead DSM
- Lead Hampton Roads
- Lead New Jersey
- LEAD SWVA
- Leadership Akron
- Leadership Alamance
- Leadership Austin
- Leadership Centre County
- Leadership Clark County
- Leadership Cobb
- Leadership Collier Foundation
- Leadership DeKalb
- Leadership Delaware County
- Leadership Eastside
- Leadership Fort Worth
- Leadership Grand Rapids
- Leadership Greater Hartford
- Leadership Greater Syracuse
- Leadership Greensboro
- Leadership Henderson
- Leadership Houston, Inc.
- Leadership Howard County
- Leadership Huntington Beach
- Leadership Jacksonville, Inc.
- Leadership Kitsap
- Leadership Knoxville, Inc.
- Leadership Lackawanna
- Leadership Lenexa
- Leadership Louisville Center
- Leadership Missouri
- Leadership Nashville
- Leadership Northern Kentucky
- Leadership Osceola County
- Leadership Paducah
- Leadership Park City
- Leadership Perimeter
- Leadership Pittsburgh Inc.
- Leadership Rancho Cordova
- Leadership San Francisco
- Leadership Snohomish County
- Leadership Southern Indiana
- Leadership Southwest Louisiana
- Leadership Spokane
- Leadership Tallahassee
- Leadership Tennessee
- Leadership Tomorrow
- Leadership Unlimited
- Leadership Washington County
- Leadership Winter Park / Winter Park Chamber of Commerce
- Leadership Women
- Maine Development Foundation
- Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation
- Mississippi Power
- Montgomery County IU Education Foundation
- Office of Community & Economic Development
- Organization
- Ottumwa Leadership Academy (Ottumwa Legacy Foundation)
- Portland Metro Chamber
- San Benito Leadership Institute
- Scancom PLC- MTN Ghana, Winneba Branch
- Scottsdale Leadership
- Tampa Bay Chamber
- The Leadership (Baltimore)
- The Leadership Center, Cincinnati Regional Chamber
- The Leadership Center, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber
- Ulster Chamber Foundation/Leadership Ulster
- Ventura County Leadership Academy
- Vision St. Charles County Leadership