Breakouts during National Convention will be held in the Tampa Convention Center
on Monday, August 25 at 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM.
Location: Room 118-119, Tampa Convention Center
Presenter: Chris Dickey, Professional Registered Parliamentarian
Departments are often quick to cite “following the process” while issues are often escalated to the national level before attempting to resolve the issue at the department level. This session, led by Chris Dickey, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, will walk attendees through real-world scenarios and introduce an accountability framework that will empower department leaders to be proactive in resolving issues. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of their roles and responsibilities in the escalation process, a framework of proper escalation protocols, and tools to respond to issues with confidence and clarity.
Location: Room 411-415, Tampa Convention Center
Presenters: Trish Ward, National President & Pam Ray, National Vice President
This session, facilitated by Trish Ward, National President and Pam Ray, National Vice President, will present the updated 2025–2026 Department Excellence Initiative and will outline updated Merit Medallion requirements. Attendees will learn how their department can achieve excellence by demonstrating innovation, service, and leadership and receive national recognition by fulfilling all of the requirements. Every attendee will leave with an actionable plan to implement excellence standards that elevate the ALA Mission and sustain meaningful impact.
Location: Room 124-125, Tampa Convention Center
Presenter: Steve Gilliland, Author and Hall of Fame Speaker
If you want to inspire greatness, you must first lead with purpose. In this dynamic session facilitated by Author and Hall of Fame Speaker, Steve Gilliland, this energizing session will focus on how leaders can cultivate the power to inspire others to greatness through intentional actions, a clear vision, and authenticity. With real-life stories and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to lead in a way that sparks engagement, trust, and long-term impact. Discover the small things leaders can do to leave a big impression—and how your leadership strengths can light the spark that leads others into action.
Location: Room 120-121, Tampa Convention Center
Presenter: Carley Schutz, Director of Development
Join Carley Schutz, Director of Development at ALA National Headquarters, for an interactive workshop designed to help you secure funding for American Legion Auxiliary mission-driven projects. This session will focus specifically on the ALA Foundation’s Veteran Projects Fund grant, guiding attendees through every step of the application process—from identifying the right opportunity to writing a proposal that stands out. Whether you're new to grant writing or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave with practical strategies, helpful resources, and a clear roadmap for crafting successful applications to support your local or department-level initiatives.
Location: Room 122-123, Tampa Convention Center
Presenters: Sara Fowler, Manager Editor and Alexa Freeman, Communications & Public Relations Strategist
Communicating effectively in today’s divided and fast-paced media world is a challenge. This session, led by the ALANHQ Communications & Marketing Division, explores how members can cut through the noise with relevant, member-centered messaging and staying focused on the ALA’s mission of serving veterans, military, and their families. Attendees will learn best practices in storytelling to develop content, discuss digital and other ways of messaging outreach, and explore ways to build trust and engagement with your intended audience.
