BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
X-WR-CALNAME:empoweringexcellence2026
X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar
METHOD:PUBLISH
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
PRODID:-//Sched.com Empowering Excellence 2026//EN
X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T130000Z
DTEND:20260917T134500Z
SUMMARY:Registration
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ead513235876aed73ad887616ee829e7
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/ead513235876aed73ad887616ee829e7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T134500Z
DTEND:20260917T140000Z
SUMMARY:Welcome
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:41c54af4268019891e66c5a3907e60af
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/41c54af4268019891e66c5a3907e60af
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T140000Z
DTEND:20260917T141500Z
SUMMARY:Proclamation Presentation
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Stephen Cha\, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Human Services\, will join us during the opening session on Thursday\, September 17\, 2026\, to present a proclamation recognizing Direct Support Professional Recognition Week.\n &nbsp\;\n Commissioner Cha’s participation is an incredible honor and provides a powerful statewide acknowledgment of the essential work performed every day by Direct Support Professionals throughout New Jersey.\n &nbsp\;\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ea3010ed9a3d7697473a4f518c096542
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/ea3010ed9a3d7697473a4f518c096542
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T141500Z
DTEND:20260917T151500Z
SUMMARY:"You Are the Standard: Owning Excellence in Direct Support"
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8e6f54c630c3592acab0cabc1f28896d
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/8e6f54c630c3592acab0cabc1f28896d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T153000Z
DTEND:20260917T161500Z
SUMMARY:Let's Get moving
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
LOCATION:Hatteras\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:41b9c6bb337d0727bd06216ac7f8589a
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/41b9c6bb337d0727bd06216ac7f8589a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T153000Z
DTEND:20260917T163000Z
SUMMARY:Strengths-Based Transition Planning: Honoring Differences\, Reframing Deficits
DESCRIPTION:This is a session description
CATEGORIES:EMPOWERING VOICES & PERSON-CENTERED PRACTICES
LOCATION:Newport\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:35e7bfb1e0b5763d51f113f13a56e961
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/35e7bfb1e0b5763d51f113f13a56e961
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T153000Z
DTEND:20260917T161500Z
SUMMARY:10 Principles of Success – Building Excellence in Everyday Practice
DESCRIPTION:This dynamic session equips frontline professionals in the I/DD field with practical\, real-world principles to elevate performance\, strengthen impact\, and build a culture of excellence in daily service. Participants will explore how to intentionally enlarge their capacity to learn and manage—recognizing that growth is not optional in a field that demands adaptability and compassion.\n\nThe session emphasizes emotional intelligence\, teaching staff to lead with sound reasoning rather than reactive emotions\, especially in high-pressure situations. Attendees will reconnect with their purpose and the deeper meaning behind their work\, reinforcing the critical role they play in the lives of those they support.\n\nThrough engaging discussion\, participants will be challenged to act differently if they desire different outcomes—learning how to break overwhelming responsibilities into manageable steps and develop the discipline to “purge” distractions\, inefficiencies\, and unproductive habits.\n\nThe session also highlights accountability and perspective: recognizing that individuals\, families\, and communities depend on their success. Staff will learn to align preparation with opportunity\, act decisively in critical moments\, and maximize their potential in the present.\n\nUltimately\, this session empowers staff to think bigger\, act better\, and lead themselves with excellence every day.
CATEGORIES:LEAD WITH EXCELLENCE
LOCATION:Biscane\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2e11d1c4a068267cd192eb607334036e
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/2e11d1c4a068267cd192eb607334036e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T161500Z
DTEND:20260917T171500Z
SUMMARY:Lunch
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7457441696cdaecbec53030a2261d03b
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/7457441696cdaecbec53030a2261d03b
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T173000Z
DTEND:20260917T181500Z
SUMMARY:Self-Management – Leading Yourself Before Leading Others
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
LOCATION:Biscane\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f831572c0615d9c2cfbe35cb8d7a611e
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/f831572c0615d9c2cfbe35cb8d7a611e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T173000Z
DTEND:20260917T181500Z
SUMMARY:Connecting with People of All Abilities Through the Power of Music
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:EMPOWERING VOICES & PERSON-CENTERED PRACTICES
LOCATION:Hatteras\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1a5dc0949c7e931a50feb2097a890c7a
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/1a5dc0949c7e931a50feb2097a890c7a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T173000Z
DTEND:20260917T181500Z
SUMMARY:From Direct Support to Dynamic Leadership: Translating DSP Skills into Leadership Strengths
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:LEAD WITH EXCELLENCE
LOCATION:Newport\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:681d6b0bf5c275c016e8cbbdec5b55b5
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/681d6b0bf5c275c016e8cbbdec5b55b5
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T183000Z
DTEND:20260917T191500Z
SUMMARY:Beyond the Boxes: Turning Data Into the Stories of Those We Support
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CONNECTED TEAMS - BETTER OUTCOMES
LOCATION:Newport\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ea4d4e39319537bdee8c1e1340bbd52d
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/ea4d4e39319537bdee8c1e1340bbd52d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T183000Z
DTEND:20260917T191500Z
SUMMARY:Navigating Justice Involvement: Practical Strategies for DSPs and Frontline Supervisors
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:EMPOWERING VOICES & PERSON-CENTERED PRACTICES
LOCATION:Hatteras\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:38a9c6455286a974c7e59022b86f340a
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/38a9c6455286a974c7e59022b86f340a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T183000Z
DTEND:20260917T191500Z
SUMMARY:Empowering Excellence from Where You Stand Why it Matters to Lead
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:LEAD WITH EXCELLENCE
LOCATION:Biscane\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:03a6fa838d2e15c83eed96443b0a633c
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/03a6fa838d2e15c83eed96443b0a633c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T193000Z
DTEND:20260917T201500Z
SUMMARY:"Bridging the Gap: Building Stronger Relationships Between Staff and the Families We Serve"
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f07893297a745457e8d63126d1073cf5
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/f07893297a745457e8d63126d1073cf5
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260917T204500Z
DTEND:20260917T224500Z
SUMMARY:LUNIQUEBINGO
DESCRIPTION:LUNIQUEBINGO: Recharge\, Connect & Play!\n\nTurn up the music\, grab your bingo card\, and get ready for an unforgettable\, high-energy experience! LUNIQUEBINGO combines great music\, friendly competition\, laughter\, and plenty of surprises to create the perfect opportunity to relax\, recharge\, and connect with others.\n\nFrontline professionals spend every day caring for and supporting others—but caregivers need care\, too. This interactive music bingo event is a reminder that taking time for yourself is not selfish\; it is essential. Step away from your daily responsibilities\, strengthen relationships with colleagues\, enjoy some well-deserved downtime\, and rediscover the power of simply having fun.\n\nCome ready to sing along\, cheer each other on\, and celebrate the people who make a difference every day—you!
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1f7f9fa0039ddea4c911595ad01cd501
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/1f7f9fa0039ddea4c911595ad01cd501
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T123000Z
DTEND:20260918T133000Z
SUMMARY:Breakfast
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c62f39a13f610aa618bf0ab026a74a12
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/c62f39a13f610aa618bf0ab026a74a12
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T133000Z
DTEND:20260918T134500Z
SUMMARY:Mindful Relaxation
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1feedec4cc630e19d7ae684fed13722b
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/1feedec4cc630e19d7ae684fed13722b
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T134500Z
DTEND:20260918T150000Z
SUMMARY:From DSP to CEO: A Leadership Journey of Purpose\, Growth and Possibility
DESCRIPTION:Leadership does not begin with a title—it begins with a commitment to serve\, learn\, grow\, and positively influence others.\n\nJoin five accomplished leaders from The Arc network for an authentic and inspiring conversation about their journeys from frontline service to executive leadership. Panelists Laura Williams\, Executive Director of The Arc\, Ocean County Chapter\; Frank Adu\, Executive Director of The Arc Middlesex County\; Scott Hennis\, Executive Director of The Arc of Atlantic County\; Pat Jones\, Associate Executive Director of The Arc of Atlantic County\; and Edwin Asuto\, Executive Director of The Arc of Union County\, will share the experiences\, opportunities\, mentors\, challenges\, and pivotal decisions that shaped their careers.\n\nModerated by Denise Beckles and Paul Kring\, the conversation will explore where each leader’s journey began\, the moments that pushed them beyond their comfort zones\, the lessons they learned along the way\, and how they maintain resilience and purpose while leading during challenging times. Panelists will offer honest stories—not perfect leadership narratives—and practical advice that participants can apply to their own professional growth.\n\nDesigned for DSPs\, frontline supervisors\, emerging leaders\, and anyone considering their next professional step\, this interactive session will include attendee-submitted and live audience questions. Participants will leave encouraged to recognize their own influence\, invest in their development\, and see that their career possibilities may be greater than they ever imagined.\n\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bae44edb4c4e08643cc075224a464a15
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/bae44edb4c4e08643cc075224a464a15
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T151500Z
DTEND:20260918T160000Z
SUMMARY:"What Exactly Do You Do All Day?" If You've Ever Been Asked That Question\, This One's For You.
DESCRIPTION:\n One shift. One Direct Support Professional. A lifetime of impact. But when that work goes undocumented\, it disappears. The progress\, the breakthroughs\, the small moments that matter most. Let's talk about the work you do every day\, why documenting it matters\, and the tools that help you capture the difference you're making.
CATEGORIES:EMPOWERING VOICES & PERSON-CENTERED PRACTICES
LOCATION:Newport\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3dc87da49b14c83982974b6d3dde4f08
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/3dc87da49b14c83982974b6d3dde4f08
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T151500Z
DTEND:20260918T160000Z
SUMMARY:Managing Up: Strengthening Communication and Teamwork from the Frontline
DESCRIPTION:Strong teams are built on clear communication\, shared priorities\, and mutual accountability. This Leadership-focused session equips Direct Support Professionals and frontline supervisors with the practical skills to “manage up” as a way to strengthen communication\, improve teamwork\, and drive better outcomes.\nParticipants will learn how proactive\, solution-focused communication supports stronger partnerships with supervisors\, reduces misunderstandings\, and keeps teams aligned in fast-paced human services environments. Emphasis is placed on real-world application—how to raise concerns early\, clarify priorities\, and provide clear\, concise updates that support effective decision-making and team performance.\nThrough relevant scenarios\, participants will practice strategies that enhance collaboration\, prevent breakdowns in communication\, and improve daily operations. The session also highlights how these skills build trust\, increase reliability\, and contribute to a more cohesive and responsive team culture.\nSupervisors will gain insight into reinforcing these practices to strengthen team communication and accountability across programs.\nParticipants will leave with practical tools and language they can immediately apply to improve communication\, strengthen teamwork\, and lead more effectively in their roles.
CATEGORIES:LEAD WITH EXCELLENCE
LOCATION:Biscane\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ba4a2a08d48fb65fdd6db2b35fde8f63
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/ba4a2a08d48fb65fdd6db2b35fde8f63
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T151500Z
DTEND:20260918T160000Z
SUMMARY:Using Teams for Team Communication
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:LEAD WITH EXCELLENCE
LOCATION:Hatteras\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:cc9de873347d1df5939a9166daf92cf0
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/cc9de873347d1df5939a9166daf92cf0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260820T072656Z
DTSTART:20260918T163000Z
DTEND:20260918T180000Z
SUMMARY:Awards Luncheon
DESCRIPTION:\n
CATEGORIES:KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GENERAL SESSIONS
LOCATION:Ballroom\, Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino * Atlantic City\, NJ
SEQUENCE:0
UID:835779a749ed24406f3262919ba9c0f6
URL:http://empoweringexcellence2026.sched.com/event/835779a749ed24406f3262919ba9c0f6
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR