Welcome to Stronger Together

Stronger Together: Strengthening the Early Childhood Workforce is a two-day, in-person statewide conference bringing together professionals who support and strengthen the early childhood workforce across Illinois.

Our roles and areas of expertise may differ, but our work is connected. Stronger Together creates a space to learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and collaborate across roles and disciplines.

Through engaging keynotes, practical learning sessions, and opportunities to connect, Stronger Together offers participants new knowledge, stronger connections, and renewed energy for the work ahead.

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 Conference at a Glance 

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TUESDAY, APRIL 13

Come Early & Connect

2:00–5:00 PM

Early Registration & Connections

Arrive early, get checked in, and connect before the conference begins

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14

Conference Day One

9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Opening Keynote
Breakout Sessions
Lunch & Exhibitors
Collaboration Lab

THURSDAY, APRIL 15

Conference Day Two

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Extended Learning Sessions
Lunch
Featured Closing Program

Free Registration  •  Travel scholarships available for eligible participants  •  Registration details coming soon

More to come! Check back for speaker announcements, session details, registration information, and conference updates

Who Should Attend?

This conference is designed for professionals who support and strengthen the early childhood workforce, including: 

CCR&R Staff

Home Visitors &
Family Support

I/ECMH Consultants

Leaders & Administrators

Pyramid Model Coaches

Trainers & PD Staff

Explore the Conference Focus Areas

Discover the five focus areas that will shape learning and connection throughout Stronger Together.

Strengthening Relationships

Building meaningful, relationship-based practices that support children, families, and professionals.

 

Strengthening Professional Practice

Skills, strategies, and approaches that strengthen professional learning, coaching, consultation, training, and implementation.

Strengthening the Workforce

Supporting the well-being, development, effectiveness, and sustainability of the early childhood workforce.

Strengthening Access & Opportunity

Creating learning spaces, practices, and systems where all children, families, professionals, and communities can thrive.

Strengthening Communities & Systems

Building partnerships and strengthening systems through collaboration, leadership, implementation, and innovation.

Have an idea to share?

Have a session idea that fits one of these focus areas? We would love to hear from you.

Please contact Megan Barton or Teresa Gammons with any questions

Conference Location

I-Hotel & Illinois Conference Center 

1900 S. First Street
Champaign, Illinois 61820
(217) 819-5000

Presented in Partnership With