Held July 13–15, at the Raleigh Convention Center, ACCESSE26 brought together STEM association executives, emerging leaders, industry partners, and subject matter experts around this year's theme, "Rooted in Purpose." Throughout three days of learning, networking, and collaboration, attendees explored how purpose-driven leadership can help organizations navigate change and embrace innovation

ACCESSE26 served as a gathering of STEM society professionals committed to strengthening their organizations' missions, supporting their members, and advancing the broader STEM ecosystem. Designed by a dedicated group of volunteer leaders, the 2026 program created opportunities to exchange ideas, learn from peers, and engage in candid conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing STEM societies.

While every attendee's experience was unique, one theme emerged consistently throughout the week: progress happens when leaders come together around a shared purpose.

ACCESSE26 By the Numbers

• 305 Total Attendees (+26%)
• 183 STEM Society Professionals (+9%)
• 81 First-Time Attendees (+37%)
• 82 STEM Organizations Represented (+17%)
• 70 Partner Organizations
• 548 Connections Made Through the Conference App
• 30 Educational Sessions
• 11 CAE and 3.5 CMP Credits Available

A Community Rooted in Purpose

ACCESSE26 began with an inspiring call-to-action from opening keynote speaker Rochelle L. Williams, Ph.D., Executive Director of Graduate Fellowships for STEM Development. Her message encouraged attendees to think critically about leadership during periods of transformation, reminding participants that staying rooted in purpose is not about resisting change, but about understanding the values that guide it.

"Being rooted in purpose doesn't mean refusing to change. It means knowing what must never change so you can confidently change everything else."

— Rochelle L. Williams, Ph.D., Executive Director of Graduate Fellowships for STEM Development

That message carried throughout the conference as attendees explored topics ranging from membership growth and credentialing to governance, workforce challenges, learning strategy, meetings, and emerging technologies shaping the STEM society community.

Just as important as the formal education was the opportunity for connection. Across sessions, networking events, and spontaneous hallway conversations, participants exchanged ideas, asked thoughtful questions, and learned from one another's experiences.

In Their Own Words

The lasting value of ACCESSE26 is perhaps best reflected in the perspectives of those who attended. While participants arrived with different goals and experiences, many left with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and new professional relationships that will continue long after the conference concluded.

"One of my favorite things about ACCESSE is that the learning doesn't stop when the sessions end. The hallway conversations, chance encounters with old friends, and opportunities to meet new colleagues are just as valuable as the presentations themselves. I'm leaving Raleigh with new ideas, new connections, and plenty of inspiration."

— Toni Kervina, CAE, AAiP, Director of Content and Learning, The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)

"I left energized with new ideas, meaningful new connections, and an even stronger sense of purpose."

— Samantha Rosenberg, CAE, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Chief People & Governance Officer, Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM)

"From participating in the networking challenge to presenting an Ignite Session, it was a unique and welcomed experience."

— José Adrian Marroquin, Senior Manager, Society of Actuaries

"The conversations aren't just about venues or attendance. They're about what happens because people come together. How meetings can strengthen industry, build partnerships, inspire new ideas, and leave something meaningful behind."

— Michael Beale, Client Engagement Manager, Business Events, Destination Canada

What It Means for STEM Societies

The conversations, ideas, and connections sparked during ACCESSE26 extend far beyond three days in Raleigh. Whether attendees came seeking practical solutions, leadership development, new partnerships, or fresh perspectives, all returned to their organizations equipped with insights they can apply immediately.

The conference reinforced a belief that sits at the heart of CESSE's mission: when STEM society professionals come together to share openly, learn from one another, and stay focused on their purpose, they are better positioned to serve their members and strengthen STEM societies' collective impact on both the STEM community and the global community.

Looking Ahead

While ACCESSE26 has come to a close, the conversations and connections formed in Raleigh will continue throughout the year.

CESSE now looks ahead to ACCESSE27, taking place July 12–14, 2027, in Richmond, Virginia, which will also coincide with CESSE's 50th anniversary, marking five decades of supporting STEM society leaders and advancing the organizations that serve the STEM community.

As part of this milestone celebration, we invite you to support the 50th Anniversary Campaign. Your gift to the Friends of CESSE Fund helps provide scholarships for association professionals to attend ACCESSE and the CESSE CEO Meeting, creating opportunities for emerging and experienced leaders alike to access valuable education, build meaningful connections, and bring new ideas back to their organizations.

Donate to the 50th Anniversary Campaign

In the meantime, we invite you to revisit highlights from ACCESSE26 by exploring this year's speakers, partners, conference schedule, and Finance & HR Pre-Conference. These resources showcase the ideas, expertise, and collaboration that made this year's event so impactful.

Whether you joined us in Raleigh or are considering attending for the first time, save the date for ACCESSE27 and stay connected with CESSE for future conference announcements and registration updates.

Thank you to our attendees, speakers, partners, volunteers, Program Committee members, and our Raleigh hosts for making ACCESSE26 such a powerful experience. Through your engagement, generosity, and commitment, you demonstrated what it truly means to be Rooted in Purpose.