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Emerge: Public Service Reimagined for a New Era

Join us January 21 - 25, 2026 in Portland, Oregon for the Winter Quarterly Board of Directors Leadership Meeting and EMERGE! Please select the button below to register. Following registration, you will be prompted to book your hotel reservation. NFBPA has arranged a discounted room block at the Hotel Benson. The discounted room block will close Monday, January 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST. After this date, regular room rates apply. Secure your spot fo r the Winter Quarterly Board of Directors Meeting and EMERGE Portland, hosted by the NFBPA National Office and the Oregon Chapter! This event is your chance to connect with public leaders and aspiring public servants, share insights, and engage in professional development. Through collaborative discussions and networking sessions, you’ll explore key topics in urban policy and public service. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with industry experts and build valuable connections in a setting designed for learning and growth! Registration Rates for the Emerge Conference: Member: $85.00 Non-Member: $95.00 Student: $50.00

FORUM 2026: Grounded In Greatness

Grounded in Greatness As we gather in the historic city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from March 7–12, 2026, under the theme “Grounded in Greatness,” we celebrate the enduring values that define great leadership and strong communities. Philadelphia—rich in history, culture, and civic spirit—provides the perfect backdrop for a conference that honors our roots while charting the course ahead. This year’s FORUM invites us to reflect on the legacy of service, the strength of community, and the resilience that grounds us. It is a space to explore how deeply held values, bold vision, and collaborative leadership can drive meaningful progress in a rapidly evolving world. In a time when public service is both deeply challenging and profoundly important, FORUM 2026 will equip attendees with the tools, strategies, and networks needed to lead with purpose. From shaping policy to launching new initiatives, every action we take contributes to a future built on intentionality, strength, and service. The National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) remains committed to elevating leadership in public service and empowering professionals across the country with the insight and support to make lasting impact. FORUM 2026 continues this mission—bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners to inspire action, strengthen communities, and drive professional excellence.