Memphis, Tennessee skyline — NAC Symposium 2026
Call for Proposals – NAC Symposium 2026
Memphis, Tennessee • October 2026
Overview
The National Assessment Center Association (NAC) invites proposals for breakout sessions at the 2026 NAC Symposium in Memphis, TN. The symposium convenes Assessment Center practitioners, system partners, researchers, and advocates to share practical strategies, research, and innovative approaches that strengthen community-based responses for youth and families.
What we’re looking for
Sessions that emphasize applied learning, cross-system collaboration, equity, and real-world impact.
Applied and practical
Participants should leave with strategies, tools, or examples they can use immediately.
Engaging and interactive
Proposals should describe how attendees will be engaged (case studies, small groups, activities, Q&A, and more).
Aligned with NAC’s mission
Sessions should support high-quality assessment center practice, coordination across systems, and improved outcomes for youth and families.
Session formats
All formats are designed for 60–75 minutes.
Format Best for
Breakout Session
60–75 minutes
 Sharing approaches, tools, or models with clear takeaways and time for discussion.
Panel Discussion
60–75 minutes
 Multi-perspective conversations across roles (youth/family, system partners, practitioners, researchers).
Interactive Workshop
60–75 minutes
 Small-group work, exercises, and applied practice with facilitation.
Skill-Based / Training Session
60–75 minutes
 Building specific capabilities (tools, facilitation practices, implementation steps, and readiness planning).
Who should submit
We welcome proposals from across roles and systems.
Assessment Centers
Emerging assessment centers (planning or < 1 year operational) and operating assessment centers (> 1 year).
System partners and policymakers
Judges, law enforcement, child welfare, probation, state/local legislators, and other partners.
Researchers, evaluators, and advocates
Researchers/evaluators and youth and family advocates. Proposals that include lived experience are strongly encouraged.
Presenter requirements
If selected, presenters will participate in a brief (approximately 30-minute) preparation call with NAC staff in advance of the symposium. Presentation materials (if applicable) must be submitted at least five (5) business days prior to the symposium.
Ready to submit?
Use the proposal form to share your session title, format, audience, description, learning objectives, and engagement plan.
Submit a Proposal Preview the PDF