NACCE 2024 National Conference Recap

Innovation, Collaboration, and Community Empowerment

The 2024 NACCE Annual Conference in Bloomington, MN was an incredible gathering of entrepreneurial minds, educators, and community leaders from across the nation. With nearly 400 attendees representing 47 states, the energy and commitment to fostering innovation in community colleges were palpable.

One of the standout sessions was a powerful closing discussion led by moderator Christine Pigsley, PhD, focused on mobilizing resources for underserved and rural communities. Key takeaways from this inspiring call to action included the importance of engaging elected officials, reaching students on the margins, collaborating with college foundations, and listening to the voices of rural communities to drive meaningful change. Thought leaders such as Jerry Edmonds III, Ed.D., Christy Blake Johnson, Marcy Euler, CFRE, D. Galen DeHay, and Christine Pigsley, PhD, provided valuable insights on how to take action and create lasting impact.

Throughout the conference, attendees explored ways to ignite innovation and collaborate strategically to build stronger communities and create opportunities for all. The event showcased the importance of NACCE’s mission—supporting entrepreneurship and workforce development within community colleges to uplift both students and communities.

We were honored to celebrate the achievements of NACCE award winners, including Kelli Chaney, who was named Entrepreneurial President of the Year. Her leadership and dedication to community impact continue to inspire us all.

A special highlight of the event was the appearance of the Poetry Fox, Chris Vitiello, whose unique blend of creativity and entrepreneurship reminded us all to tap into the resources we have to fuel our own ventures.

The NACCE 2024 Conference was a tremendous success, bringing together professionals who are dedicated to making a difference in education and beyond. We look forward to seeing how the ideas, partnerships, and innovative solutions that emerged from this conference will continue to shape the future of community colleges and the communities they serve.

Join us for the 2025 NACCE National Conference in beautiful Coronado, CA from October 5th to 8th, 2025!

Prepare for an exciting few days of innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship as we bring together community college leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across the nation. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights, forge new partnerships, and drive positive change in your community.

Mark your calendars now—more details to come!

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2024 NACCE National Conference in Minneapolis! Your participation and engagement made this year's event a tremendous success as we continue to inspire and advance entrepreneurship in education.