#AACTE25: Keynote Speakers Who Inspire Change and Innovation
The AACTE 2025 Annual Meeting, taking place February 21 – 23 in Long Beach, CA, will be a significant event for education professionals, featuring insightful presentations, groundbreaking discussions, and networking opportunities with thought leaders in the field.
At the Annual Meeting’s opening and closing keynote sessions, speakers Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy, Ph.D., and Clint Smith, Ph.D., respectively, will engage the audience with their experiences, vision, and passion that will set the stage for transformative dialogue.
Opening Session | Friday, February 21, at 8:30 a.m. PST
Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy, Ph.D.
Beyond the Horizon
Holcomb-McCoy is no stranger to leadership in the realm of education. As the newly-named president and CEO of AACTE, she joins the organization with a remarkable track record of service, scholarship, and advocacy. Before stepping into her new role, she served as a distinguished professor and the dean of the School of Education at American University (AU) in Washington, D.C., for over eight years. During her tenure at AU, she championed the cause of educational equity and pushed for initiatives that supported diverse student populations.
At the AACTE 2025 Annual Meeting, Holcomb-McCoy will address the AACTE membership for the first time, with her keynote address, where she will delve into the future of AACTE and educator preparation. With decades of experience, her perspectives on transformative leadership and innovation in educator preparation will provide attendees with a forward-looking vision. As she begins her tenure as AACTE president, her influence is expected to shape the future direction of the Association, the field, and the profession.
Closing Session | Sunday, February 23 at 8:30 a.m. PST
Clint Smith, Ph.D.
How the Word Is Passed
Smith brings a unique blend of scholarship, storytelling, and activism to the #AACTE25 stage. A staff writer at The Atlantic and a New York Times bestselling author, Smith has gained widespread acclaim for his work on the intersections of race, history, and education.
In his keynote presentation, Smith will draw from his vast body of work to discuss history and memory’s role in shaping the educational landscape. His exploration of how we teach and learn about difficult histories is especially relevant in today’s classrooms, where the past is often contested.
Smith’s deep commitment to education and social justice aligns with AACTE’s mission to prepare educators who are equipped to foster inclusive and equitable learning environments. His keynote will not only offer a historical lens through which to view education but also inspire teachers and administrators to engage in more intentional, reflective practices.
To learn more about the keynote speakers, visit aacte.org.
Join AACTE in Long Beach
The AACTE 2025 Annual Meeting promises to be a powerful gathering for educators seeking to innovate and lead in an increasingly complex world. With such inspiring figures as Holcomb-McCoy and Smith, attendees are sure to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and direction in their efforts to create a more just and equitable educational landscape.
Early bird registration for #AACTE25 ends November 4 — register today and take advantage of discounted rates before the deadline. Book your hotel by January 24 to ensure the group rate discount.
Tags: Annual Meeting, events
