2026 CEC Leadership Institute

The Leadership Institute is the Council for Exceptional Children's premier professional development and networking event for component presidential-line leaders. This two-day, in-person experience brings together volunteer leaders from across the U.S. and Canada to strengthen leadership skills, collaborate on shared goals, and return home energized with practical tools to advance their communities and the field of special education. This event is your opportunity to connect with CEC Headquarters staff and fellow leaders, gain valuable insights into the year ahead, and help shape the future of CEC and special education. Because your leadership transition is so important, we strongly encourage the President-elect to use one of the two complimentary registrations provided, ensuring you are fully prepared to hit the ground running when you become President. For the second complimentary registration, we highly recommend sending either your Membership Chair or Communications Chair. Much of the programming directly supports these roles and will equip them with practical tools, strategies, and resources that can immediately strengthen your Unit's engagement, communication, and overall effectiveness. At the end of the Leadership Institute, participants will be able to: 1. Describe the roles and responsibilities of CEC Unit and Division leaders and how these connect to the broader CEC structure and mission. 2. Identify key tools, resources, and support systems available through CEC Headquarters to help manage and strengthen their Unit or Division. 3. Demonstrate an understanding of core leadership tasks, including event planning, budgeting, member engagement, succession planning, and effective communication. 4. Apply CEC policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure sound governance and compliance within their Unit or Division. 5. Engage in peer networking and collaboration to exchange ideas, build relationships, and identify opportunities for partnership or mentorship across Units and Divisions. 6. Feel empowered and equipped to lead with confidence, innovate locally, and contribute meaningfully to the growth and impact of the CEC community as ambassadors.