Conference
2026 CADREI Annual Conference
October 12 – 14, 2026
No college or school of education succeeds in isolation. This year's conference puts that truth at the center, exploring how cross-sector collaboration — between higher education, K-12 schools, communities, industry, non-profits, and local and federal government — is the engine of meaningful, lasting impact in educator preparation. We're building a program around the partnerships that make our work possible, and we can't wait to bring this conversation to Hilton Head Island.
Agenda
Pre-Conference New Dean’s Institute – October 11, 2026
Leading with Purpose: Building Collaborative Communities from Day One
Your College. Your Partners. Our Field
If you're a new dean or associate dean, this institute is designed for you. It sets the stage for the full conference by grounding new leaders in the collaborative practices that make cross-sector partnerships possible from day one. New deans are welcome to attend this pre-conference event; an extra $350 registration is required.
CADREI Annual Conference – October 12-14, 2026
The Collaborative Imperative: Shared Purpose through Partnerships
Tentative Conference Highlights – More Details to be Posted:
★ Keynote Panel: Research-Practice Partnerships and Community Impact
- Na'ilah Suad Nasir, President, Spencer Foundation
- Louis Gomez, UCLA
★ Policy Update: The Federal Education Landscape — Research Funding, Teacher Preparation & Beyond
- Jacqueline King
- Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy, President & CEO, AACTE
Registration
Membership in CADREI is a requirement for attending the conference. The cost is $1000 per institution. Click here to become a member.
- Member Dean or Designee – no cost for registration
- Associate Deans, Assistant Deans, or Department Chairs from Member Institutions - $475 per attendee
- Guest/Spouse/Partner of member attendees - $175 per attendee
- New Deans Institute: $350 per attendee
Once membership is confirmed, a registration link will be sent to you.
Hotel Information
All events will be held at the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, SC. A hotel reservation code with discounted rates will be sent to you once membership and registration for the conference is complete.
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island | Official Website
130 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Travel Information
Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), located about 9 miles from the hotel and is serviced by Airlines such as American, Delta, and United.
Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is located 35 minutes away by car and provides a wider selection of flights with more than 30 nonstop destinations. From either airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-share services to reach the hotel.
Local Attractions
Local Area | Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Wildlife & Beaches
