Annual Conference & Expo

Ben Rudrud is a nationally recognized, award-winning keynote speaker who has spoken to over 500,000 students, educators, school board members and business professionals. Ben's topics focus on the subjects of positive relationships, inspiration and motivation, everyone's special purpose, believing in yourself, and understanding what it means to have a Power of One. Ben tells personal stories filled with practical advice and humor using an animated delivery. He captivates audiences with his messages and leaves people inspired and uplifted with hope!

Kim Bearden is the co-founder, executive director, and language arts teacher at the renowned Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, where over 115,000 educators have visited her classroom to learn innovative strategies for student engagement and school culture. With 39 years in education, Kim has served in roles ranging from teacher to principal and has earned numerous national honors, including induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame and awards from Disney, the Milken Foundation, and Mercedes-Benz. She is also a bestselling author of Crash Course, Talk to Me, and Fight Song.

AESA is embracing global engagement with confirmed international partners from China, Hungary, Portugal, and Singapore, and an invitation extended to colleagues in South Korea. This growing network reflects AESA’s commitment to global partnerships that enrich education and broaden perspectives. Join international leaders, hosted by Jason Hiruo, Chief Global Officer on AESA Global, as they explore the power of cross-cultural collaboration and the importance of global competence in today’s world.