An Invite: Curiosity Inspires Community – Annual Conference 2025

Glenn Morris, ACE, President & CEO, W.A.C.E.

​I’m thrilled to invite you to our Annual Conference in Henderson, Nevada, from February 5-7. This year, we’re embracing the theme Curiosity Inspires Community, a powerful reminder of the role curiosity plays in our work and our lives. Registration opens this month, and I can’t wait for you to experience what the Conference Planning team, led by Chair Candace Carnahan, have in store.

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Behind the scenes, the Conference Planning Committee has been hard at work cultivating sessions that will be both impactful and thought-provoking. They’ve carefully selected topics that address the challenges we all face, ensuring we’ll hear from leaders with fresh, diverse perspectives. The have shaped a program sure to inspire each of us to embrace curiosity and return to our communities ready to make a difference.
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One highlights will be our opening keynote speaker, Nash Fung.  Known for blending magic with storytelling, Nash will captivate and challenge us to see how curiosity can unlock new ways to connect and lead.   His insights will set the perfect tone for our time together.

Our breakout sessions will explore everything from engaging the next generation of members to innovative economic development strategies. We’re also tackling key issues like workforce development and the art of truly listening to the businesses we serve. These sessions aren’t just about learning new tactics; they’re designed to broaden our perspectives and equip us to drive meaningful change.

New this year, based on feedback from past attendees, we’re excited to unveil new pre-conference experiences and extra learning opportunities. Arriving early on February 4th, you’ll have the chance to participate in activities that go beyond the usual conference setting. These curated experiences will allow you to dive deeper into the local culture, explore innovative economic projects, and form meaningful connections with fellow attendees. It’s an expanded opportunity to deepen your conference experience, offering more ways to connect, learn, and be inspired.  Or, if you are looking for specific, hands-on training from one or more of our strategic partners, you’ll have that opportunity as well.

As we come together this February, let’s harness the power of curiosity to fuel our work. Our collective curiosity is what will drive us to serve our communities with more passion and creativity.   Mark your calendars, register early, and join us as embrace curiosity to fuel our innovation.   I look forward to seeing you there and discovering the incredible impact we can make when we let curiosity lead the way.