March 2025 - Embrace the Moment: Inspire, Inform, Impact

In less than two weeks, we will convene in Atlanta for one of the largest SACAC conference experiences to date! With over 1000 registered attendees and over 40 exhibitors, #SACAC25 is sure to be one for the books! 

The theme for #SACAC25 is Embrace the Moment: Inspire, Inform, Impact. While together at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, we invite everyone to embrace the moment! The current landscape of education may feel discouraging, but we are committed to embracing the moment and taking care of what we can control by offering sessions that will inspire you to go back into your communities and make meaningful impacts! 

“Being intentional in what we do allows us to see the special moments in our daily work.  These moments may sometimes seem insignificant, but if we take a breath, pause, and notice, there is so much to see and experience.  I am inspired by the students who persevere, the counselors who sacrifice, and the many people who give their 100% everyday.  These are the snapshots of inspiration that pushes us to continue the good work and celebrate the impact that is felt in all our communities.“ – Arlene Outerbridge.

Each planned detail for #SACAC25 has been built on inspiring, informing, and impacting our conference-goers. From the very first note of the opening session, we will be inspired by Harlem Grown’s CEO, Mr. Tony Hillery, who has learned how to embrace his own moment, overcoming personal obstacles and planting a path forward for over 5,000 students to date. Partnering with five Harlem schools, Mr. Hillery inspires healthy lifestyles, promotes sustainability, and impacts his community through advocacy and mentorship. 

This year, the conference team felt inspired to allow professional development to meet personal development! Who among us could use some extra advice on stretching our dollar? Let’s face it! Our inspiration for entering education was not to become millionaires, yet we still have goals! Raymond James Associate Vice President and Certified Financial Planner, Harris Konter will join SACAC for an exclusive opportunity. Come prepared to be informed how the current economic trends may impact your wallet, savings, and personal goals! 

“When Harris came to our summer board meeting last year, he not only gave us insight into SACAC’s fiscal health but encouraged us to ask individual questions as well. We discussed investing, life insurance, refinancing, etc. He gave us a crash course in personal finance in a way that was accessible and interesting! In this profession, we talk to our students and families about making prudent financial decisions, but we don’t always feel confident in making those decisions ourselves. This opportunity should be a step in the right direction!” – Julia Hodge

Regardless of which side of the desk you sit, there are plenty of sessions for each participant. The conference team has ensured that each time block offers something for everyone. 

After we have all been inspired and informed, we will get the opportunity to let loose a little bit! Whether you want to dance or simply enjoy the fizz of a refreshing Coke, we are excited to be together for the social happening at World of Coca Cola on Monday night. There may even be some special surprises in store that you won’t want to miss!

Leading up to #SACAC25, we welcome your participation! We want to hear who or what has inspired you in your career. We will share your responses on social media and throughout the conference. Look at these examples for inspiration.