2026 MnAEYC Summer Leadership Institute

The Summer Leadership Institute is a premier professional development experience designed to support leaders across the early childhood career continuum, from those just beginning their leadership journey to those with long-standing experience in the field. This year's theme, 'Beyond the Myth: Leading with Evidence, Care and Courage,' invites participants to challenge assumptions, ground leadership decisions in research and lived experience, and lead with intention in complex and evolving systems. This one-day institute will bring together early childhood leaders, administrators, and emerging leaders for focused learning, reflection, and connection. Attendees can expect sessions focusing on topics such as challenging dominant narratives, evidence-informed leadership, accreditation and continuous quality improvement, coaching and mentoring, emotional intelligence, workforce retention, advocacy and systems leadership, and equity-centered and inclusive leadership. Keynote speaker is Dan Wuori, author of The Daycare Myth, focusing on critical examination of dominant narratives about child care and effective early childhood systems.