2026 NCUEA Fall Conference

Join us from December 2 - 5 in Omaha, NE as we gather around the theme "From the Plains to the Podium: Educators Lead the Way." As educators and organizers, we know everyone has the power to transform themselves and their communities. What would it mean if the fear, distrust, and antipathy leading our society today were replaced with a belief in the fundamental value of every human being?

We'll examine this thought-provoking theme from a variety of vantage points, including Dr. Tiffany Crutcher's keynote address on the fight to transform our criminal justice system, our panel discussion on how local unions are leading change through building community coalitions, and a panel highlighting the power of economic disruption to win for our students and communities.

Be sure to register today to secure your spot – this will be a Fall Conference you won’t want to miss!

Acknowledgment to Action: Native Students and Union Power

Dr. Megan Red Shirt-Shaw (Oglala & Sicangu Lakota) is a nationally recognized leader in education, known for her visionary thinking, grounded leadership, and deep commitment to Native students and communities. A scholar, speaker, and advocate, she brings cultural clarity and institutional insight to her work, calling for accountability, advancing Indigenous leadership, and guiding young people toward purpose and belonging.

Megan is the co-founder of Tokahe Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Native youth to dream of, invest in, and plan for their futures. Through Tokahe and her broader work, she is helping create pathways for the next generation of Native leaders to imagine expansive futures rooted in identity, community, and possibility.