"Come on in!"
Registration Is Open!
SCSAE 2026 Annual Conference
August 9-11, 2026 | Summerville, SC
Hilton Garden Inn Summerville
406 Sigma Drive, Summerville, SC 29486
Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now open for the 2026 SCSAE Annual Conference, happening August 9–11, 2026, in the birthplace of sweet tea, Summerville, SC!
This year’s theme, “Come On In,” is all about the warmth of Southern hospitality, meaningful connections, and creating a welcoming space for association professionals, hotel properties, and industry partners alike. From front porch conversations to fresh ideas and valuable networking, this conference is designed to feel like coming home.
Join fellow association executives, exhibitors, and sponsors for three days of engaging education sessions, industry insights, networking opportunities, and memorable experiences — all with the charm and hospitality that make the South special. Whether you’re returning for another year or attending for the first time, one thing is certain: we’ve been waiting for you.
Register Today
Use the link below to secure your spot and be part of the premier gathering for association professionals in South Carolina.
Become a Sponsor
Showcase your organization, connect with decision-makers, and gain valuable visibility among association leaders from across the state. Check out the available sponsorships here.
Hotel Information
Click here to book your hotel room, or call (843) 832-1304 and press "0" to speak with a guest service agent on-property, and mention the group code "SAE". CUTOFF: 7/24/26
Conference Agenda
Sunday, August 9, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
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6:30 - 7:30 AM: Sunrise 5K Foundation Fundraiser
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8:30-9:30 AM: Registration, Continental Breakfast & Visit Exhibitors
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10:00 AM: Welcome/Opening Comments with Ken Ivey, President, SCSAE, and Jason Russo, Hilton Garden Inn
Titanium Palmetto Partner Spotlight-Visit Myrtle Beach, Cyndi Mohr, CFMP, Senior Sales Manager
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10:30 – 11:45 AM: Opening Keynote: Improv(ise), Adapt, and Overcome: Life’s Unscripted. Make It Work with Connor Wentling
Life doesn’t follow a script — and neither do the best teams. Through the lens of improv, we explore how trust, presence, and collaboration help us adapt together, build stronger relationships, and create workplaces where everyone truly belongs. This session explores how humor and laughter, when used intentionally, create stronger relationships, healthier work environments, and more effective teams. Blending real-world stories, research, and improv insights, Connor offers practical strategies that help leaders and teams communicate better, collaborate more fully, and enjoy the work they do together.
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11:45 – 12:15 PM: Networking Break and Visit Exhibitors
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11:55 AM – 12:15 PM: SCSAE Annual Business Meeting (Current SCSAE Regular Members may attend)
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12:15– 1:15 PM: Lunch
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1:15PM: Platinum Palmetto Partner Spotlight:Experience Columbia
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1:15-2:15 PM: “Worst Presentation Ever” with Mike Pennington, Novi AMS
Does the thought of public speaking frighten you to your core? If your boss asks you to present to a group, do you get the cold sweats and shaky knees? MOST people are right there with you! It’s okay!
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2:30 PM: Open Networking
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3:30 - 5 PM: Refreshments by the pool
Food + Beverage Tour: Sponsored by: ExploreCharleston
Pickle Ball: Sponsored by: ExploreCharleston
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6:00 – 7:00 PM: Awards Reception
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7:00 – 9:00 PM: Awards Dinner
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9:00 PM: Hospitality Suite
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
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8:00 AM: CAE/CEO Breakfast with Lowell Aplebaum: Let’s Chat: Risk, Trends, Governance, Strategy
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8:30 – 9:30 AM: Breakfast & Visit Exhibitors
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9:30 AM: Gold Palmetto Partner Spotlight: Myrtle Beach Convention Center
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9:30 – 10:30 AM: Closing Keynote
Foresight Fluency: Building the Practice of Looking Ahead
Lowell Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator
CEO, Vista Cove
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