Summer Leadership Conference

Pre-conference: "Business Strategy Framework 2.0 Workshop" 

Monday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 16  |  9:00 am – 4:00 pm  |  Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, Omni Temple Room

This pre-Summer Leadership Conference Business Strategy Framework Workshop, "Managing Strategic Resources," features Dr. Duncan Simester and AESA Business Consultants Andy Pechacek and Doreen Marvin sharing information about:

• Competitive Strategy & Application to the Business of AI
• Managing Strategic Uncertainty
• Partnering on AI
• Organizing for Strategy

Pre-requisite: Participants are required to have attended a previous Business Strategy Framework Workshop prior to this event.

Registration Fee:

• Individuals: $2,250 per person
• Team of 3 or more: $1,900 per person

REGISTER FOR THIS WORKSHOP

Conference Schedule

Pre-Conference: Business Strategy Framework Workshop

• Individuals: $2,250 per person
• Team of 3 or more: $1,900 per person
• Register Now

Summer Leadership Conference

Artificial Intelligence Sessions (Day 1)

Early Adopter Cohort for Microsoft 365 Copilot - Lessons Learned

Presented by: Ellen McDonnell, Executive Director, Lower Hudson Regional Information Center

In this presentation, members of our Regional Information Center will share the work we are doing internally with an Early Adopter Cohort of staff to use Microsoft 365 Copilot (paid version). This is focused on how this generative AI tool is helping us internally, not district-facing.

Empowering AI Champions: A Collaborative Blueprint for Statewide AI Literacy and Readiness

Presented by: Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services, Montgomery County ESC; Craig Burford, Executive Director, Ohio ESC Assoc.; Shannon Cox, Superintendent, Montgomery County ESC;Brett Roer, Ohio Regional Director of aiEDU.

This session will showcase the groundbreaking partnership between the Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) and aiEDU, designed to elevate AI literacy and readiness across Ohio. Our comprehensive initiative identifies and empowers "AI Champions" within Educational Service Agencies (ESAs) statewide, offering them specialized monthly training sessions. The collaboration has facilitated the launch of four pivotal AI Summits, strategically distributed across the state to maximize impact and accessibility. Furthermore, the project champions the development of a practical "How to Guide," complementing the Lieutenant Governor's AI Toolkit for educators. This guide aims to provide educators with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate AI into their curricula effectively. Join us to explore how this innovative statewide project not only enhances AI education but also fosters a community of practice among educational leaders, setting a precedent for AI readiness initiatives nationwide.

Paving the Future of Education and AI

Presented by:  Michael Keough, Chief Technology Officer, Region 16 ESC

An examination of AI and AI-integrated tools available for ESAs and schools, as well as an examination of roles, policies, and guidance ESAs should be thinking about to guide LEAs in discussions around AI, student success, and future readiness.

Crisis Management Sessions (Day 1)

From Shock to Rebuilding:  Leading Through the Various Stages After a School Shooting

Presented by:  Susie Meade, Chief Academic Officer, Heartland AEA

When the news hit that a school shooting occurred in a small town within the Heartland AEA service area, the Crisis Reunification Team deployed immediately to provide support.  The assistance provided by the AEA extended well beyond the immediate needs and aided the district in navigating the complex steps of rebuilding trust and restarting school.  This presentation will tell the story of the journey after a shooting and the unique long-term partnership between the school district and the AEA.

Supporting LEAs Before, During, and After a Security Incident

Presented by:  Rory Peacock, Deputy Executive Director - Technology and School Safety, ESC Region 11

This session will focus on supports and services that ESC Region 11 uses to help our LEAs before, during, and after a safety or security incident.  The presentation will dive into strategies and systems that can be put into place to help build the relationships with LEAs, so that when something happens, the LEA knows where they can find support.  Most items discussed will be no- or low-cost which allows action to begin even without a large budget or contract need.  Additional technologies and systems will be introduced to provide even more comprehensive services for long-term benefits for both LEAs and service centers/agencies.

Social Emotional Well-Being for Leaders (Day 2: Attend 3 of 4 sessions)

Helping Students Find Balance with Social Media (Resilience)

Presented by:  Cameron Audia, Executive Producer, Skills21 at EdAdvance

The Social Balance is an innovative new curriculum program for middle and high school students that explores the impact of social media through the lens of STEM. The Social Balance helps students think critically, so they can leverage the benefits of social media while navigating risks and putting a premium on real-world, in-person relationships. This session is designed to help teachers and school leaders explore how they can leverage social media literacy in order to improve school climate and culture. Topics will include, but are not limited to social media and dopamine, algorithms, setting boundaries, and digital detox.

Wellness My Way...Getting My Groove Back 

Presented by:  Damita James, Assistant Director, Middle Georgia RESA

Let's Groove...to groove means to take pleasure in something and enjoy it. In this session, we will explore the ways educators can recognize when their groove just ain't grooving and how they can implement small groove sessions throughout the school day that can benefit all staff.  As we move through this session, we will take a closer look at the decisions, encounters, and experiences that contribute to our overall wellness groove and discuss the link to mental, emotional, and social wellness as we strive to live our best lives both in and out of the school environment.

Creating a Culture of Resiliency & Belonging

Presented by:  Terri Locke, Director of Special Education/Alternative Placements, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit; Alan Hack, Ed.D., Assistant Executive Director/Chief Academic Officer at CSIU; Dr. Anthony Serafini, Director of Professional Development, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit.

Building staff resiliency and a sense of belonging in highly complex educational environments requires an on-going and multifaceted approach.  This session will explore the concept of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) within our ESA/agency environments along with strategies to promote a positive culture, prevent burnout, improve staff wellness, increase communication through feedback loops, provide meaningful support & resources, and more.  Participants will walk away with at least one practical strategy that they will be able to implement in their ESA or agency.

The Youth Mental Health Navigator Program: A New and Proactive Approach to Improved Mental Well-being in Children, Families, and Communities

Presented by:  Beth Winterfeldt, Youth Mental Health Coordinator, MSW LGSW; South Central Service Cooperative

The Youth Mental Health Navigator Program (YMHN) is an innovative pilot program, supported by a partnership of Minnesota’s South-Central Services Cooperative and Greater Mankato Area United Way in response to the post-Covid 19 mental health crisis. This program augments school district student support personnel and SEL curriculum by helping students and families navigate the complex mental health system in the communities where they live. Navigators function as a bridge between schools and community mental health providers. Centered on relationship building with people, school systems, and mental health agencies, this program works to reduce all barriers so that students (and their families) have timely access to effective and culturally appropriate mental health supports.

The YMHN program is grounded in evidence-based research, which shows that early-intervention for mental health needs increases the likelihood of a positive life-trajectory, including improved academic success, and reduces the likelihood of future substance use and corrections involvement.

Students, families, and school staff are already seeing positive outcomes of this program, resulting in improvement of student behaviors and academic success within a very short span of time. This program is made possible by local collaboration and funding from non-profits, counties, school districts, health clinics, businesses, and community members.

The presentation of the YMHN program can ignite others throughout the country to consider strategies for creating a similar program unique to the needs of their own communities.

Cameron Audia, Executive Producer, Skills21 at EdAdvance

Presenting: Helping Students Find Balance with Social Media (Resilience)

As the Executive Producer of Skills21 at EdAdvance, Cameron plays a pivotal role in transforming educational practices through innovative project-based learning initiatives. With a Master of Fine Arts and a career marked by dedication to education and technology, Cameron has developed and implemented cutting-edge programs that engage and empower students and educators alike.

A significant milestone in Cameron's career is the authorship of "The Social Balance" curriculum, a pioneering educational tool designed to help students navigate the complexities of social media with critical thinking and discernment. This curriculum stands out as a testament to Cameron's commitment to addressing the urgent need for media literacy in today’s digital age.

Cameron's decision to speak at AESA's 2024 Summer Leadership Conference stems from a desire to collaborate directly with individuals and organizations that are closely connected to school districts. The goal is to share the transformative potential of "The Social Balance" and provide the tools necessary for educators to expand their capacity to foster a healthy, critical approach to social media among students.

Cameron's work has been recognized in various educational circles, and she continues to be a driving force in reimagining how students interact with technology and more importantly each other.

Craig Burford, Executive Director of the Ohio Educational Service Center Association

Presenting: Empowering AI Champions: A Collaborative Blueprint for Statewide AI Literacy and Readiness

Craig Burford has served as the Executive Director of the Ohio Educational Service Center Association (OESCA) since August 2000. OESCA represents more than 20,000 full- and part-time personnel and governing board members of Ohio’s 51 regionally based educational service centers (ESCs). In this capacity, he manages association operations, and directs the policy development and lobbying efforts of the association through its grassroots network. He also serves on the Executive Council of the national Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA), representing state executive directors across the United States.

Prior to joining OESCA, Craig was the Director of Communications and Government Relations for the Ohio SchoolNet Commission from 1999 to 2000. From 1996 to 1999, He served as legislative aide and chief of staff to State Senator Pro Tempore Bob Cupp (R-Lima).

Craig began his work in state government and policy analysis as a Legislative Service Commission Intern (now LSC Fellows) in 1995 after graduating Bowling Green State University with a B.A. in History and Political Science. As an LSC intern he served the offices of Senators Cupp, M. Ben Gaeth, and Stephen Yarbrough. His interests in state government were bolstered by a college internship with Wood County Common Pleas Court judge and former Ohio Speaker of the House Charles Kurfess. Craig and his wife Cecilia reside in Dublin, Ohio and are the parents to four children and grandparents to two. He has run two levies for local school districts and served as Vice-Chair of the Perry Township Zoning Commission.

Shannon Cox, Superintendent MCESC

Presenting: Empowering AI Champions: A Collaborative Blueprint for Statewide AI Literacy and Readiness

Shannon currently serves as the 12th Montgomery County Educational Service Center Superintendent in the organization’s history and is its first female superintendent. Her role includes working directly with and advocating for all 16 public school districts in Montgomery County. As the educational leader for the county, she works with other various leaders across city/county government and the other public sectors.

Shannon was featured as a TEDxDayton speaker, where she gave her TED Talk on “Future Self.” Shannon has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Dayton, where she taught various workshop classes and Educational Leadership courses.

Ms. Cox has worked with many other communities in different roles within the MCESC, which has allowed her to build relationships with districts throughout the region and state. In addition, she co-leads the MCESC Business Advisory Council while taking a great interest in overall state policy and law to be able to provide guidance and consultation to districts.

Shannon was named the 2021 Justus A. Prentice Awardee by the national Association of Educational Service Agencies. This top national award acknowledges contributions through executive leadership in advancing regional educational service agency programs at the regional, state, and national levels. She was also a finalist for WDTN’s Remarkable Woman 2021 and was chosen as a Blue Angels’ Key Influencer in 2022. Shannon was also honored as one of the Top 50 Business Women by the Dayton Business Journal in 2023.

Shannon serves on the Board for ThinkTV/CET and Montgomery County’s Workforce Investment Board. Additionally, she serves on other boards including Learn to Earn Dayton, Air Camp USA, Montgomery County Overdose Action Team, Family and Children First Council, Dayton Region Manufacturer Association, Dayton Metro Library Foundation, and is Past President of the Historical Society of Germantown’s Board of Trustees. Prior to her current position, she spent time in her career as a classroom teacher at the intermediate and junior high levels, a building principal, an athletic coach, a K-12 Curriculum Director, and MCESC’s Associate Superintendent. Her experience has been in multiple counties and different types of districts giving her a variety of educational experiences at the Pk-12 level.

Outside of education, Shannon is a community activist. She is a vibrant participant in her community and has led many grass-root initiatives including those focusing on volunteerism, fundraising, political campaigns, and health awareness, and most recently has co-founded a Community Drug-Free Coalition. Shannon believes there has never been a more important time in education to advocate for our profession, our schools, and most importantly our students.

Alan Hack, Assistant Executive Director/Chief Academic Officer at the CSIU

Presenting: Creating a Culture of Resiliency & Belonging

Alan Hack - Alan Hack, Ed.D. holds the role of Assistant Executive Director/Chief Academic Officer at the CSIU, overseeing academic programs and initiatives benefiting nearly 40,000 individuals in Central Pennsylvania. Advocating for marginalized communities, he leads efforts ranging from Early Child and Special Education to Migrant Education, ensuring equitable access to education. Dr. Hack also fulfills responsibilities under Act 89 for non-public schools, facilitates quality instruction at North Central Secure Treatment Unit, and supports the online learning and professional development departments. Dr. Hack has experience as a classroom teacher, building administrator, and district superintendent and currently serves as an adjunct professor at Wilkes University, focusing on cultivating educational leaders statewide. Dr. Hack is actively involved in professional and community organizations including PASA, AESA, ERDI, and the United Way.

Damita James, Assistant Director, Middle Georgia RESA

Presenting: Wellness My Way...Getting My Groove Back

Dr. Damita James has called Warner Robins home for the last 20 years. She is married to her college sweetheart and they have one daughter who is attending Columbus State University. Her passion to help others was the catalyst to her educational journey at Georgia Southern University where she obtained a Bachelors in Education-Mental Retardation.

Being a lifelong learner, Dr. James pursued an M.Ed. in Instructional Technology from Georgia College and State University, an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Lincoln Memorial University, and a Ph.D. in Special Education Leadership from Capella University. The opportunities she had for the last 25 years as a special educator have allowed her to teach and lead in various settings including elementary and high school, Teacher of the Visually Impaired, and Special Education Administrator both in Houston County and currently at Middle Georgia RESA where she serves as the Assistant Executive Director and GLRS Director.

As an active member of the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL) and leader in the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), Council for Administrators of Special Education (CASE), and Georgia CASE, Damita has held the following positions for the respective organizations: GaCEC President, CASE-Financial Committee Member, and G-CASE Treasurer. She is also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (DKG) which is a national educational organization for women. As part of DKG, Damita served on the professional affairs and grant-in-aid committees.

Damita is a certified trainer for IIRP Restorative Practices, Emotional Poverty 1 and 2, and Check & Connect. Damita loves to support new teachers and work with coaches through the GaDOE Teacher Provider Retention Program (TPRP) for new special education teachers in Georgia. She has presented at several state and local conferences on best practices for co-teaching, high-leverage practices, specially designed instruction, equity, and teacher wellness.

Damita is a huge advocate for the self-care of educators and believes that we must use our experiences as opportunities for growth in both our personal and professional lives. Her motto, “Just Breathe” serves as a reminder that we can get through anything, one breath at a time.

Michael Keough, Chief Technology Officer, Region 16 ESC

Presenting: Paving the Future of Education and AI

With over 16 years of leadership in educational technology across the Texas Panhandle, Michael's journey has been driven by a commitment to enhancing student success through technology. His academic background, with a Master's in Instructional Design and Technology and a Bachelor's in Business Administration, has laid a strong foundation for his career. As CTO of Region 16, he has championed innovative solutions and strategies that ensure equitable access to advanced educational tools and resources. Michael's professional focus has evolved to include cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, application development, and quantum technology, reflecting his dedication to preparing our educational systems for the future. By fostering the integration of AI into our schools, he aims to enhance instructional methodologies and administrative processes, ensuring that our education sector remains ahead of the technological curve.

Outside of work, his life is enriched by a 16-year marriage to Emily and their deep-rooted connections to the vibrant community of the Texas Panhandle.

Terri Locke, Director of Special Education/Alternative Placements, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit

Presenting: Creating a Culture of Resiliency & Belonging

Terri Locke, M.S. Ed. is currently serving as the Director of Special Education and Alternative Placements at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, an educational service agency in Pennsylvania. With a rich background in special education, Terri brings over 15 years of invaluable administrative experience to the table. Terri oversees special education programming that offers two center-based programs, 10 classrooms within districts, and itinerant services for students in the service agency area. In addition, Terri provides leadership for the field of special education administrators spearheading various initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for students with diverse needs while nurturing a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.

Ellen McDonnell, Executive Director, Lower Hudson Regional Information Center

Presenting: Early Adopter Cohort for Microsoft 365 Copilot - Lessons Learned

Dr. Ellen McDonnell serves as the Executive Director of the Lower Hudson Regional Information Center in Harrison, New York. As part of the Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) of NYS, the LHRIC’s mission is to provide K-12 Leadership with our partner districts to achieve their educational technology goals. Dr. McDonnell brings her three decades of experience as a teacher, building principal, and school district administrator to her current role.

Rory Peacock, Deputy Executive Director - Technology and School Safety, ESC Region 11

Presenting: Supporting LEAs Before, During, and After a Security Incident

Rory Peacock was named Deputy Executive Director of Technology and School Safety at ESC Region 11 in 2015. He oversees all internal and external technology and school safety services and support provided to ESC Region 11 schools. Previously, he was director of Instructional Technology at Northwest ISD.

Prior to joining Northwest ISD in 2009, Rory was the applications development manager for a firm in Fort Worth and the network communications specialist at Midway ISD in Waco. His unique background includes network management as well as four years of classroom teaching and two years of technology coaching for teachers.

Most recently, Rory has been working in partnership with the new School Safety Division at TEA to develop a comprehensive toolset and platform for LEAs and ESCs centered around school safety.

Brett Roer, Ohio Regional Director of aiEDU

Presenting: Empowering AI Champions: A Collaborative Blueprint for Statewide AI Literacy and Readiness

Brett Roer, the Ohio Regional Director for The AI Education Project (aiEDU), advocates passionately for the equitable and safe integration of AI in schools to transform education. aiEDU, in partnership with the Ohio Educational Service Centers Association (OESCA), is focused on the creation of a network of AI educators across the state to equip students for an AI-driven future and elevate Ohio to the forefront of K-12 AI education nationally. Brett has also fostered partnerships for aiEDU to ensure all NYCPS educators have access to virtual professional development on Foundational AI Literacy, and has created AI Student Challenges and moderated student panels for Southern California school districts on acceptable AI use policies.

Following 16 years in New York City Public Schools as a school leader, college advisor, and teacher across Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx, Brett has spearheaded initiatives and fostered national partnerships for innovative ed-tech and non-profit educational organizations. Brett’s expertise in AI, college and career pathways, educational leadership coaching, and equitable innovation has led to his participation as a panelist and moderator at the ASU+GSV Summit, NYCSchool Tech Summit, EDTECH WEEK NYC, on digital panels for Digital Promise, NationSwell, and Outlier.org, as well as educational and Ed-Tech focused podcasts such as Ed-Tech Insiders.

Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services MCESC

Presenting: Empowering AI Champions: A Collaborative Blueprint for Statewide AI Literacy and Readiness

Candice Sears is an educational leader committed to reshaping education and providing transformative student experiences. Her focus on relationship-building and networking has propelled her career, highlighting the critical role of connections in fostering an enriching learning environment. Candice believes in the power of collaboration, emphasizing partnerships between students, educators, and the community to enhance educational outcomes.

She is an advocate for innovative educational practices, embracing technology and new pedagogies to engage students in personalized learning. Candice is dedicated to preparing students for the future, encouraging them to explore their passions and develop essential skills in a changing world. Her approach aims to offer tailored learning experiences that nurture individual talents and promote personal and academic growth.

Driven by a vision of an education system that empowers students and instills hope, Candice focuses on creating opportunities for every student to achieve their potential. Her work in educational leadership and innovation is aimed at building a future where education transcends traditional boundaries, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive and positively impact society. Connect with Candice to be part of the journey toward reimagining education and exploring new possibilities.

Anthony Serafini, Director of Professional Development, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit

Presenting: Creating a Culture of Resiliency & Belonging

Dr. Anthony Serafini serves as the Director of Professional Development at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit in Milton, Pennsylvania, bringing nearly 15 year of experience and a strong educational background. With an emphasis on leadership development, special education, and educational technology, Anthony plays a pivotal role in enhancing educational experiences for school districts. His dedication to developing the teacher pipeline ensures a continual flow of skilled educators, ready to meet the demands of modern classrooms. Embodying a commitment to educational excellence and professional development, Anthony’s work is a testament to his passion for empowering educators and students alike.

Beth Winterfeldt, Youth Mental Health Coordinator, MSW LGSW; South Central Service Cooperative

Presenting: The Youth Mental Health Navigator Program: A New and Proactive Approach to Improved Mental Well-being in Children, Families, and Communities

Beth is a Youth Mental Health Navigator for South Central Service Cooperative of Minnesota. She brings a wealth of expertise from her background in social services. Beth holds master’s degrees in music and social work as well as a graduate certificate in Non-Profit Leadership. As a licensed social worker, Beth has experience in legislative advocacy, program development, administration, and evaluation, grant writing, and strengths-based person-centered direct practice services with individuals of all ages. She is passionate about collaboratively facilitating systems-change for improved individual and community well-being. Outside of work, Beth enjoys time with her family and friends and a plethora of hobbies, including animals, knitting, and reading.

Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale

155 Temple St, New Haven, CT 06510

Immerse yourself in the collegiate atmosphere of New Haven. Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale is just steps from the historic Yale University campus and the 16-acre New Haven Town Green. Visit the 19th floor of our hotel in New Haven, CT for fresh New England cuisine and rooftop panoramas at John Davenport’s at the Top of the Park. Find balance with a float, sauna session or massage at Ripple Float & Wellness Center. Walk to the Yale campus in minutes to attend to business or tour the historic grounds. Or discover boutique shopping, specialty museums and creative dining during your stay at our downtown New Haven hotel.

The AESA room block details will be emailed upon your registration for the Summer Leadership Conference.

Airports with Access to New Haven, CT

• HVN, Tweed-New Haven Airport, Avelo Air has service to Tweed-New Haven
• BDL, Bradley International Airport, 45-minute drive to New Haven
• LGA, LaGuardia Airport, 1.5 hour drive to New Haven
• JFK, John F Kennedy International Airport, 1.5 hour drive to New Haven
• EWR, Newark Liberty International Airport, Amtrak has service from Newark airport to New Haven

Attractions in New Haven

New Haven, a city with a vibrant cultural scene, renowned academic institutions, and an unparalleled culinary reputation, especially for its pizza, offers a wide range of experiences for enjoyment and exploration. This guide delves into the heart of New Haven’s entertainment, dining, and nightlife, with a special focus on its iconic pizza scene, famously acclaimed by food critics and celebrities alike, including David Portnoy of Barstool Sports.

Dining and Drinking in New Haven

Culinary Delights

Zinc New Haven: A modern American restaurant that focuses on local and sustainable ingredients, creating a fresh and seasonal menu.

Olives and Oil: An Italian eatery where the vibe is as vibrant as the flavors, serving up creative dishes alongside classic staples.

Tarry Lodge: Offers a gourmet Italian experience with a menu crafted by celebrity chef Mario Batali.

Hachiroku Shokudo & Sake Bar: This restaurant has gained recognition for its authentic Japanese cuisine and an extensive sake menu. It is known for its artistic plating and exclusive dishes.

The Anchor Spa: A unique spot offering seafood and jerk-seasoned dishes along with an impressive selection of artfully designed drinks.

Cafe Java: Praised for having the best breakfast sandwich in New Haven, along with a selection of delicious sandwiches and homemade soups.

Cast Iron Chef Chop House and Oyster Bar: Known for its steakhouse offerings with all steaks aged and cut in-house, highlighting cast iron skillet cooking.

The Luke Brasserie: Offers fine Mediterranean cuisine in an upscale setting, with dishes designed to be shared and a complimentary Prosecco.

Skappo: An Umbrian restaurant focusing on seasonal produce and authentic ingredients from Italy, renowned for its simple yet inclusive menu.

Noa: A modern establishment offering Thai and Lao food with contemporary twists, known for its moody and sophisticated atmosphere.

Adriana's Restaurant & Wine Bar: An award-winning Italian restaurant serving authentic Northern and Southern Italian fare in a warm atmosphere.

Caffe Bravo: One of New Haven’s top Italian restaurants, offering authentic Italian dishes and other European specialties in an elegant atmosphere.

Goodfellas Restaurant: An old-school, mobster-themed Italian restaurant famous for traditional Italian cuisine with an emphasis on farm-fresh ingredients.

Heirloom - New Haven: A farm coastal restaurant inside the boutique Study at Yale Hotel, showcasing the bounty of Connecticut with farm-to-table cuisine.

L'orcio: An upscale Italian restaurant serving refined Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting, located in a beautifully refurbished historic home.

Louis Lunch: Family run since 1895, Louis' Lunch in New Haven was recognized by the Library of Congress as the Birthplace of the Hamburger Sandwich.

Shell & Bones: Seafood eatery perched on New Haven Harbor offering steaks, water views & a seasonal deck.

The Owl Shop:  Tobacconist, cigar bar & lounge with theater cred since 1934, offering custom cocktails & panini.

Breweries and Bars

East Rock Brewing Company: Known for its German-style lagers, East Rock offers a cozy taproom experience and a peek into the brewing process.

Bar: A unique combination of a brick oven pizzeria, microbrewery, and nightclub. Don't miss their famous mashed potato pizza.

Ordinary: This historic tavern provides a sophisticated atmosphere, a curated selection of fine drinks, and a peek into New Haven's past.

Barcelona Wine Bar is celebrated for its Spanish-influenced menu and extensive wine list.

Viñas Wine & Tapas features Chilean-inspired tapas crafted to pair with a selection of local wines

Dance and Entertainment

Toad's Place: A legendary venue that has hosted the likes of the Rolling Stones. It's the go-to spot for live music ranging from local bands to international acts. For a different vibe, check out their themed events like the Blacklight Glow Party, adding a unique twist to the usual nightlife experience.

College Street Music Hall: Offers a diverse lineup of performances in a beautifully renovated space, from rock concerts to comedy shows.

Café Nine: Known as the "musician's living room," Café Nine features a wide array of live music, showcasing talent from across the globe in an intimate setting.

Toad's Place: A cornerstone of New Haven's nightlife, known for its live music and dance parties. It's particularly popular on weekends for its "Original Saturday Night Dance Party".

BAR: Transforms from a lively brewery by day to a bustling dance club at night on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a hotspot for indie rock and modern hits.

Shrine Nightclub at Foxwoods: For those willing to venture a bit out of New Haven, Shrine offers top DJs and a mega-club atmosphere akin to New York's nightlife.

Avalon Night Club at Mohegan Sun: Another venue outside New Haven that's worth the trip for its high-tech environment and upscale dress code, hosting top DJ performances.

Club Vandome: Located in New Haven, this club offers a variety of DJs and a vibrant dance floor, alongside themed nights and events.

Cafe Nine: While more known as a cozy bar, it's a wonderful space for live music and has a respectful and enthusiastic audience, making it a unique place to enjoy the night.

Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill: Known for its extensive tequila selection and southwestern cuisine, it's a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a spirited evening.

Partners Cafe: A welcoming LGBT bar and nightclub with a dance floor, offering karaoke nights and Latin-X Underground parties, providing a fun and inclusive atmosphere.

The Taylor Party: The TS Dance Party at Toad's Place: Fans of Taylor Swift or those just looking for a fun, themed dance night would enjoy this special event, showcasing the diversity of entertainment available.

New Haven Pizza: A Culinary Legend

New Haven is synonymous with pizza, or "apizza," a style known for its thin crust, charred edges, and simple yet flavorful toppings. This culinary tradition has placed New Haven on the map as a must-visit pizza destination, with accolades from food critics, celebrities, and pizza aficionados worldwide. David Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports and a renowned pizza reviewer, has famously rated several of New Haven's pizzerias among the best in the country, reinforcing the city's reputation as the pizza capital of America.

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana: Often topping the list of America's best pizzerias, Pepe’s is renowned for its White Clam Pizza, a unique combination that perfectly balances the flavors of fresh clams, garlic, and cheese.

Sally's Apizza: A rival for the best pizza in New Haven, Sally’s maintains a devout following with its own version of the perfect charred thin-crust pizza.

Modern Apizza: Offers a slightly different take on the New Haven style, with a broader menu of toppings and its own loyal fanbase.

David Portnoy's glowing reviews of these establishments have only added to their fame, attracting visitors from all over the country eager to taste what has been dubbed the best pizza in America.

Why New Haven?

New Haven’s rich cultural tapestry, combined with its historic significance and educational prominence, makes it a city of endless exploration. Whether you're dining on nationally acclaimed pizza, enjoying a craft beer in a cozy taproom, dancing the night away in a storied music venue, or simply soaking in the eclectic energy that fills the streets, New Haven offers a blend of experiences that cater to all tastes and interests.

From the savory slices of apizza that have earned it culinary fame to the rhythmic beats of its lively entertainment spots, New Haven invites locals and travelers alike to partake in its offerings. As a city that continues to captivate the palates and hearts of those who visit, New Haven stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of great food, great music, and great times.

Pre-Conference Cancellations

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made in writing before June 15, 2024, will be refunded in full, less a 5% per person processing fee. Cancellations received on or after June 15, 2024, through July 1, 2024, will be refunded at 50%. NO REFUNDS WILL BE PROVIDED AFTER JULY 1, 2024. Cancellations may be emailed to jbass@aesa.us or afiene@aesa.us.

Summer Leadership Conference Cancellations

Cancellations made in writing before June 16, 2024 will be refunded in full, less a 5% per person processing fee. Cancellations received on or after June 16, 2024 through July 2, 2024 will be refunded at 50%. NO REFUNDS WILL BE PROVIDED AFTER JULY 2, 2024. Cancellations may be emailed to jbass@aesa.us or afiene@aesa.us.