Learn From the Best in the Disability Community

The Arc’s National Convention is an unmatched opportunity to connect and learn with advocates, professionals, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. If you are interested in employment, education, advocacy, housing, criminal justice, and more, our sessions are sure to challenge, inspire, and motivate!

Your Week at a Glance

Get a feel for what’s ahead—moments to connect, learn, celebrate, and mobilize. This schedule is a preview and will continue to evolve, so check back for updates. All times are Eastern. 
* Ticketed event.  

November 12

WEDNESDAY

1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

NCE Professional Development Seminar*

November 13

THURSDAY

8:00 am – 8:45 am

Breakfast

9:15 am – 10:30 am

Opening General Session

10:45 am – 11:45 am

Breakout Sessions

11:45 am – 2:00 pm

Lunch On Your Own

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

NCE Awards Luncheon*

2:15 pm – 3:15 pm

Breakout Sessions 

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Advocacy Power Hour

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Opening Welcome Reception

November 14

FRIDAY

8:00 am – 9:00 am

Breakfast 

9:00 am – 10:00 am

General Session

10:15 am – 11:15 am

Breakout Sessions

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Breakout Sessions 

12:30 pm – 2:00 pm

Lunch (on your own)

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Breakout Sessions

3:15 pm – 4:15 pm

The Arc’s Annual Business Meeting

4:30 pm – 5:30 pm

Update from Washington

6:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Fun Local Event – NASCAR Hall of Fame

November 15

SATURDAY

8:00 am – 9:00 am

Breakfast 

9:00 am – 10:00 am

Breakout Session

10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Closing General Session

Meet Our Opening Speaker

At a pivotal moment for disability rights, we open this year’s Convention with the leadership and lived experiences of people with disabilities and their families. Together, we’ll explore why our collective power and personal stories are essential to shaping what comes next. Judy Woodruff brings a rare and powerful perspective: as a parent of a person with a disability and as a news icon who has covered 12 presidential elections and decades of national policy. Don’t miss your chance to see her live!

Meet Our Closing Speakers

The Arc was built on turning “what is” into “what should be.” Today’s disability innovators are carrying that legacy forward by creating practical solutions that open doors to independence, inclusion, and community. In our closing session, you’ll meet two changemakers whose creativity and grit are driving real change. Drew Ann Long, creator of Caroline’s Cart, has made errands easier and more inclusive for millions. And Doug Cunningham, Executive Director of The Arc of Iowa, will share how they launched a vending machine social enterprise, transforming revenue streams and building community recognition, fueling the chapter’s growth and mission.

We’re Saving You a Spot – Register Today!

Full registration includes access to all sessions, meeting materials, and advertised meals. One-day registration includes access to sessions on the designated day, along with advertised meals for that day.  

When you register, there are also add-on events you can attend for an additional fee, including the Professional Development Seminar and NCE Awards Luncheon. 

Member Non-Member* Self-Advocate, Direct Support Professional, Personal Care Attendant**

Full Registration

Early Bird (until September 24) $670 $880 $410
Standard (from September 25) $880 $1,090 $515

One-Day Registration

Early Bird (until September 24) $410 $490 $315
Standard (from September 25) $510 $590 $415

*Discover the benefits of becoming a member. For more information, contact info@thearc.org.

**This rate applies to personal care attendants supporting an attendee at the event.

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors

Become a sponsor and connect with The Arc’s community of leaders from across the country! Visit the sponsorship page or contact sponsor@thearc.org to learn more.

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