Sessions

Cultivating Leaders: Today's Supervisors, Tomorrow's Leaders

About This Session

Today's frontline supervisors have often entered their role with little to no supervisory experience, are promoted after demonstrating excellence in direct support, and enter their new role as a leader with little to no training or support. How do we provide the support, training, and experiences necessary for new supervisors to thrive and support the teams they lead today, and engage and inspire them as the next generation of leaders? Tomorrow's leaders will reshape how services are provided and will build on the work of those who came before them. This session will include a brief case study of an effective blended learning training program for supervisors and include small group discussion and shared learning focused on strategies for providing informal and formal professional development opportunities that can build leadership experiences and engage leaders at all levels in building tomorrow.

Speaker: Megan Sanders

Applicant Screening Assessments

About This Session

This session will provide an overview of tools utilized to effectively screen applicants for the Direct Support Professional position. With advancement in technology, it is imperative that the employee have digital literacy to log their hours worked, document completed programing, and be able to chart medication administration. Employes must also have the passion to support those in need which can be assessed through customizable personality assessments.

Speakers: Rachel Gustofson and Lisa Nicholas

Building Solid Systems in Minnesota

About This Session

In this breakout, we’re laying out the foundations of quality in disability services. From protecting rights, to promoting respect, addressing abuse, improving natural supports, and other areas – attendees will learn the building blocks for organizational excellence. Then, we’ll share tips, techniques, and action steps for creating quality services, evaluating effectiveness, and ensuring it’s benefitting the people you support.

Speaker: Courtney Kelly Chapman

Navigating Difficult Conversations

About This Session

When teams come together to support someone in shaping their path, it’s natural for disagreements to arise. It’s easy to delay difficult discussions, hoping time will smooth things over. Real progress comes when we lean in with courage, conviction, and compassion. With a commitment to truly hearing each other, conflict turns into collaboration. Discover how purposeful conversations unlock unity, inspire progress, and move us forward—together.

Speakers: Christina Kurchner and Erin Martin

The First 90 Days That Matter: Helping DSPs Stay and Grow

About This Session

The first 90 days matter most for DSP retention. Join this engaging session to explore creative, practical strategies that help new staff build confidence, connection, and purpose early in their roles. From mentorship and competency-based training to leadership support and culture-building, discover ways organizations can move beyond orientation and create a strong start that keeps DSPs committed for the long haul.

Speaker: Claire Benway

And more to be announced soon!

Conference Registration