Future Readiness: From Uncertainty to Empowerment
May 5th, 2026 - In Person Event
Hawkeye ATD's Building Community Connections Conference is an award-winning event where we give back to the community.
Join us for an engaging and energizing day where you’ll discover how you respond to change and leave empowered to shape your organization’s future—featuring opening keynote speaker Tom Hicks and closing keynote speaker Celina Peerman!
Whether you're navigating technological disruption, leadership transitions, or evolving community needs, you'll leave with concrete strategies to foster adaptive mindsets and build the organizational agility that mission-driven work demands.
Join us to transform how you respond to change—and emerge empowered to shape your organization's future.
We invite everyone who works for or volunteers at a nonprofit.
When:
Tuesday, May 5th. Check in begins at 8:00 a.m.
Event is from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where:
Mt Mercy University Graduate Center, 1650 Matterhorn Dr NE, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52402
Cost:
Includes sessions, session materials, lunch, snacks, and beverages.
- $35 - Students, Non-Profit Staff, Volunteer, or Board Member
- $45 - ATD Member
- $55 - Non-Member
BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS CONFERENCE AGENDA
8:00 a.m. Registration Opens and Continental Breakfast
8:30 a.m. ATD Welcome!
9:00 a.m. Opening Keynote - Tom Hicks
Inspired by a juggling kit from his grandmother, Tom Hicks delivers a fun, hands-on workshop that transforms the fear of failure into fuel for growth. Embracing Failure & Growth Through Juggling blends laughter, resilience, and connection, giving participants a safe space to try, fail, and try again—while building trust, adaptability, and a true continuous improvement mindset. Perfect for teams, schools, and organizations ready to strengthen culture, spark collaboration, and leave with lessons that last long after the balls stop flying. Are you ready to juggle?
10:00 a.m. 15-minute break
10:15 a.m. Breakout Sessions
11:30 a.m. Lunch
12:15 p.m. Breakout Sessions
1:30 p.m. 15-minute break
1:45 p.m. Breakout Sessions
2:45 p.m. 15-minute break
3:30 p.m. Closing Keynote - Dr. Celina Peerman
Work is changing rapidly but success depends on how leaders’ model and manage disruption. This session explores the human side of change: reducing resistance, building clarity, strengthening trust, and guiding teams through uncertainty. Walk away with practical strategies to lead adaptation with confidence and empathy.
4:30 p.m. Conference Close
