October 2nd-4th, 2026

Welcome

Conference Opening

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  • Dr. Michael Sapp Executive Director, Trauma Resource Institute
Plenary

Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® Plenary

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Speakers

  • Kevin McLeod Director of Community & Business Development, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Heather Lilly Director of International & Humanitarian Response, Trauma Resource Institute
Plenary

Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)® Plenary

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Speakers

  • Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW Founder & Executive Director Emerita, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Jessica Waterson, LMFT Director of Faculty Development, Trauma Resource Institute
Land Acknowledgement

Gabrieleno San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians

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Opening recognition and land acknowledgement ceremony.

Led By Kimberly Morales Johnson

Welcome & Opening Address

Connection Before Content

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Welcome to the 20th Anniversary Conference featuring introductory remarks, housekeeping details, and an interactive "Connection Before Content" activity to get to know the attendees at your table.
  • Dr. Michael Sapp Executive Director, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW Founder & Executive Director Emerita, Trauma Resource Institute
Plenary Panel 1

The Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® in Action

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In this session, we will hear how community and organizational leaders have integrated the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) throughout their organizations and communities. Panelists will share real-world experiences, lessons learned, and the impact of bringing practical, biologically based wellness skills to individuals, organizations, and communities.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Edwin Weaver, MSW, MDR Executive Director, Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley
  • J'vanete Skiba Director, New Hanover County Resiliency Task Force
  • Nikki Tobeck Regional Program Manager, Resilient Georgia
  • Dr. Bev Buckles Dean, School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda University
Plenary Panel 2

The Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)® in Practice

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In this session, mental health practitioners will share how they integrate Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) concepts and skills into clinical practice. Through examples from their work, panelists will explore how TRM supports regulation, healing, and resilience for individuals navigating stress, adversity, and trauma.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Jessica Waterson, LMFT Director of Faculty Development, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Rose Vick, PhD, PMHNP-BC Interim Director, PMHNP Specialty & Assistant Professor, Acute & Chronic Care Community, School of Nursing | Vanderbilt University
  • Kimberly C. Wong, LCSW, DCSW
Plenary Panel 3

The Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® in Action Internationally

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In this session, we will hear how community and organizational leaders from outside the United States have adapted CRM for use within their organizations and communities. Drawing from their experiences in regions facing significant social and community challenges, panelists will explore how practical, biologically based wellness skills can strengthen wellbeing across diverse cultural and community contexts.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Dr. Lesley Carroll Assistant Commissioner for Investigations, Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR)
  • Natalia Rudzynska International Partnership Director, EdCamp Ukraine
Closing Remarks

Friday Closing Remarks

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  • Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW Founder & Executive Director Emerita, Trauma Resource Institute
Evening Reception

Networking Welcome Reception

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Join us for a welcoming evening reception to connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and partners. Enjoy light music and conversation to kick off the weekend.

Morning Wellness

Chair Yoga & Meditation

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Start your morning with a gentle chair yoga and meditation session designed to support grounding and presence for the day ahead.

Welcome

Saturday Welcome & Housekeeping

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  • Dr. Michael Sapp Executive Director, Trauma Resource Institute
Plenary Keynote

Keynote Address: Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

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  • Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW Founder & Executive Director Emerita, Trauma Resource Institute
Special Recognition

TRI Staff & Training Faculty Introductions

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Meet the Trauma Resource Institute staff and training faculty dedicated to advancing resilience worldwide.

Plenary Panel 4

The Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® in Healthcare Settings

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In this session, we will hear how healthcare leaders and practitioners have integrated CRM within healthcare organizations and systems. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will explore how practical, biologically based wellness skills can support the wellbeing of patients, healthcare professionals, and the communities they serve.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Carolyn J. Cumpsty Fowler, PhD, MPH, PCC Executive Director for Nursing Well-Being, Johns Hopkins Health System
  • Cammie Wolf Rice Founder & CEO, CWC Alliance
  • Beth Fitzpatrick, LCSW, CEAP, CCISM Caritas Coach & Emotional Support Services Supervisor, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
  • Magdalena Sunshine Serrano, MSW, LCSW Director of Behavioral Health, Community Health Centers of the Central Coast (CHC)
Plenary Panel 5

Measuring Wellbeing: Research and Evaluation of CRM

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Exploring empirical evidence, research studies, and outcome evaluations surrounding the Community Resiliency Model across diverse populations and healthcare institutions.

Moderator Dr. Michael Sapp

Panelists

  • Dr. Linda "Lindy" Grabbe Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
  • Dr. Ingrid Hopkins Duva Assistant Professor, Clinical Track, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
  • Dr. Susanne Montgomery Associate Dean for Research, Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health
Midday Program

Lunch & Recognition of Past Ambassadors

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Lunch break and special mid-day recognition ceremony honoring past TRI Ambassadors led by Dr. Michael Sapp and Elaine Miller-Karas.

Concurrent Sessions — Round 1

SESSION A: CRM Across Cultures

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In this session, we will hear how practitioners have adapted and implemented CRM within specific cultural communities. Drawing from their experiences using CRM within Indigenous, Latino, and Arab communities, panelists will explore how CRM can complement the unique strengths, values, and traditions of different cultures to support wellbeing.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Magdalena Sunshine Serrano, MSW, LCSW Director of Behavioral Health, Community Health Centers of the Central Coast (CHC)
  • Martha Parra San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health
  • Halima Ramazani Community and Family Settlement Worker, Catholic Cross-Cultural Services

SESSION B: TRM Across Clinical Specialties

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In this session, we will hear how practitioners have incorporated TRM into specialized areas of practice. Drawing from their experiences working with student athletes, individuals experiencing eating disorders and/or dissociation, veterans, and LGBTQ+ communities, panelists will share how TRM can be used to meet diverse needs while supporting healing and wellbeing.

Moderator Dr. Michael Sapp

Panelists

  • Malia Gallegos, LMFT
  • Jan Click, MSW, LCSW
  • K Thomas Director of Education & Training, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Jenilee Sneed, Ph.D., C-IAYT

SESSION C: CRM in Systems Serving Children and Families

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In this session, we will hear how community and organizational leaders have incorporated CRM into systems that serve children, youth, and families. Drawing from their experiences across gun violence prevention programs, early childhood initiatives, rural communities, and juvenile justice settings, panelists will share how CRM can be used to support wellbeing and strengthen resilience within the systems that influence young lives.

Moderator Kevin McLeod

Panelists

  • Jordan R. Murphy, PhD, RN, CPNP CEO, Center for Interrelational Science and Pediatrics
  • Townley Saye Executive Director, First 5 Mendocino
  • Douglas K. Jackson, PhD
Concurrent Sessions — Round 2

SESSION D: CRM in Organizations

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In this session, we will hear how organizational leaders from Crestwood Behavioral Health, Covenant House International, Aspiranet, and Blue Cross North Carolina have integrated CRM within their organizations. Panelists will share how CRM can support employee wellbeing, strengthen organizational culture, and enhance services for the individuals and communities they serve.

Moderator Kevin McLeod

Panelists

  • Regina Jennings Vice President, Program, Covenant House International
  • Sarah Wood Sr. Director of Learning and Performance & LMS Administrator, Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc.
  • Jennifer Andersen, LCSW WAI Director, Aspiranet
  • Jenny Cooper, MPH, PMP Principal Product Developer, Behavioral Health, Blue Cross NC

SESSION E: CRM and TRM in Recovery and Healing

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In this session, we will hear how CRM and TRM are being utilized to support recovery and wellbeing. Drawing from experiences in substance use treatment, personal recovery journeys, peer support, and emerging approaches to trauma healing, panelists will explore how biologically based skills can support healing across diverse pathways to recovery and wellbeing.

Moderator Dr. Michael Sapp

Panelists

  • Erin Bowman, LCAS, LCSW, CCS Facility Director, Julian F. Keith Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center, NC Department of Health and Human Services
  • Jon Dance Graduate Assistant, Center for Rural Education, Virginia Tech

SESSION F: CRM with First Responders/Law Enforcement

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In this session, we will hear how CRM is being incorporated within first responder and law enforcement settings. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will explore how practical, biologically based wellness skills can support wellbeing, strengthen organizational culture, and enhance resilience among those who serve their communities in high-demand roles.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Jen Wallace, MPM Co-Founder & Director, Cantoneras Consulting, LLC
  • Gary Cunningham Information Recovery Team Supervisor, Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR)
  • Dale Simmons Paramedic/Firefighter (Ret.) / Chaplain
Evening Event - 6:30 PM

TRI's 20th Anniversary Dinner Gala

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Join us for an evening celebrating TRI’s 20th Anniversary, honoring the extraordinary legacy of TRI and our founder, Elaine Miller-Karas. Featuring dinner, live music, keynote speaker Dr. Byrd (LADMH), board and ambassador recognitions, and the presentation of The Elaine Miller-Karas Endowment Fund.
Morning Wellness

Chair Yoga & Soundbath

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A gentle morning chair yoga and restorative soundbath session to center focus and vitality for the final day of the conference.

Morning Plenary

Building Youth and School Resiliency with CRM

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Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Presenters

  • Jordan R. Murphy, PhD, APRN CEO, Center for Interrelational Science and Pediatrics
  • Christa Tinari Senior Project Consultant, Trauma Resource Institute
Concurrent Sessions — Round 1

SESSION G: CRM with Children

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In this session, we will hear how CRM has been utilized to support children in school and community settings. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will share how CRM can be incorporated into everyday interactions and programs to support wellbeing, enhance engagement, and foster supportive environments for children.

Moderator Christa Tinari

Panelists

  • Susan Reedy, MA, LMFT
  • Kelly Purcell Community Trainer and Prevention Specialist, Coastal Horizons
  • Inez Tiger, MA, LMFT

SESSION H: CRM and TRM: Research, Findings, and Future Directions

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In this session, we will hear from researchers exploring the use of CRM and TRM across diverse settings and populations. Drawing from studies in healthcare systems, within communities affected by collective trauma, and in clinical applications of TRM, panelists will share key findings and discuss opportunities for future research.

Moderator Dr. Michael Sapp

Panelists

  • Dr. Ingrid Hopkins Duva Assistant Professor, Clinical Track, Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing
  • Dr. Samuel Habimana, PhD, MPH Assistant Clinical Professor, School of Behavioral Health, Loma Linda University
  • Kimberly R. Freeman, PhD, MSW Professor & MSW Program Director, Loma Linda University

SESSION I: CRM in Higher Education

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In this session, we will hear how CRM has been integrated within higher education settings. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will share how CRM skills are being incorporated into programs, services, and campus initiatives to support wellbeing and strengthen the overall campus community.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Erica Coates, LCSW Community Resiliency Model Coordinator, Virginia Tech
  • Laura Burgis CEO, The Human Values Center
  • Brooke Conway, LSW, MPH Assistant Professor, Wellness Counselor, Kapiʻolani Community College
  • Megan Toothman Community Engagement and Health Equity Program Coordinator, University of North Carolina Wilmington
Concurrent Sessions — Round 2

SESSION J: CRM with Youth

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In this session, we will hear how CRM has been utilized to support youth in school and community settings. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will share how CRM skills have been incorporated into programs, services, and everyday interactions to support wellbeing, enhance engagement, and foster supportive environments for youth.

Moderator Christa Tinari

Panelists

  • Kevin McLeod Director of Community & Business Development, Trauma Resource Institute
  • Antonio Castro, LCSW, PPSC Director, Behavioral and Mental Health, Colton Joint Unified School District
  • Reginald Ty McNeil Founder & Executive Director, Transforming Youth Movement, Inc.

SESSION K: Intersection of CRM and Spirituality

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In this session, we will hear how CRM has been integrated within diverse faith traditions and spiritual practices. Drawing from their experiences, panelists will share how CRM skills have been incorporated to support wellbeing, deepen awareness, and complement spiritual care and faith-based practices.

Moderator Dr. Michael Sapp

Panelists

  • Philip Allen, Jr., PhD Affiliate Assistant Professor, Fuller Theological Seminary & Executive Director of Racial Solidarity Project
  • Aziza Hasan, M.A. CEO, New Ground
  • Keith A. Menhinick, Ph.D. Lecturer & Director of Graduate Studies in Religion, Georgia State University

SESSION L: CRM's Global Impact

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In this session, we will hear how CRM has been utilized in communities around the world. Drawing from their experiences in Sierra Leone, Ukraine, the Middle East, and Thailand/Myanmar, panelists will share how TRI's models have been adapted in diverse cultural and humanitarian contexts.

Moderator Heather Lilly

Panelists

  • Peter Abdulrahman Turay Program Coordinator, FASCET – Sierra Leone
  • Sara Cook Cook Consultancy
  • Judy Pang Programme Manager, Christian Aid
  • Steve Olweean Director, Common Bond Institute & President, International Humanistic Psychology Association
  • Soula Saad Director/Producer, Nota Bene Production
Midday Program

Networking Lunch & Ambassador Recognition

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Provided box lunch gathering featuring special mid-day ambassador acknowledgements hosted by Dr. Michael Sapp and Elaine Miller-Karas.

Plenary Panel 6

Vision for System Change

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In this session, we will hear from leaders working at the intersection of wellbeing, resilience, and systems change. Drawing from efforts in government, public service, and addressing the impacts of climate change, panelists will explore what becomes possible when wellbeing is embedded into the structures, policies, and practices that shape our communities.

Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

Panelists

  • Bo Dean Senior HR Analyst, New Hanover County
  • Bob Doppelt Coordinator, International Transformational Resilience Coalition (ITRC) & the Global CARE Alliance
  • Shannon Biteng Program Manager, Trauma Aware
Plenary Keynote 2

Keynote Address: Brendan Ozawa-de Silva

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Moderator Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW

  • Brendan Ozawa-de Silva Associate Teaching Professor, Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics, Emory University
Closing Program

Conference Closing Remarks

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Concluding remarks and closeout hosted by Trauma Resource Institute leadership.

 
In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
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In-Person Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
from $175.00

Event Dates: October 2 - 4, 2026

Rooted in Well-Being. Planted in Community. Connected by Hope.

The Trauma Resource Institute (TRI) invites you to join us for our first Annual Conference in October 2026. This three day gathering brings together TRI’s diverse global community of natural leaders, educators, practitioners, researchers and partners connected through a network that spans all 50 U.S. states and more than 77 countries.

This conference is offered in-person as well as virtually. Click HERE for virtual conference passes.

Purchase Gala Dinner Tickets HERE.

This gathering marks an important milestone, bringing our global community together to reflect on TRI’s impact, deepen connection, and explore what’s possible as we continue growing this work worldwide.

Conference experiences and conversations will explore:

  • Real-world applications of CRM and TRM across diverse settings and populations

  • Emerging research, innovative programs and community-based initiatives

  • Practical tools and interactive learning opportunities

  • Meaningful connection and collaboration with practitioners and partners from around the world

Virtual Conference Pass | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration Virtual Conference Pass | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration Virtual Conference Pass | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
Quick View
Virtual Conference Pass | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
from $275.00

Event Dates: October 2 - 4, 2026

Rooted in Well-Being. Planted in Community. Connected by Hope.

The Trauma Resource Institute (TRI) invites you to join us for our first Annual Conference in October 2026. This three day gathering brings together TRI’s diverse global community of natural leaders, educators, practitioners, researchers and partners connected through a network that spans all 50 U.S. states and more than 77 countries.

This conference is offered in-person as well as virtually. Click HERE for in-person conference passes.

This gathering marks an important milestone, bringing our global community together to reflect on TRI’s impact, deepen connection, and explore what’s possible as we continue growing this work worldwide.

Conference experiences and conversations will explore:

  • Real-world applications of CRM and TRM across diverse settings and populations

  • Emerging research, innovative programs and community-based initiatives

  • Practical tools and interactive learning opportunities

  • Meaningful connection and collaboration with practitioners and partners from around the world

Gala Dinner Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala Dinner Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
Quick View
Gala Dinner Tickets | Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration
$75.00

Date: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026

Time: 6:30pm Pacific

Location:

Doubletree by Hilton. Claremont, CA

555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont, CA 91711

The hotel is 12 miles from Ontario (ONT) International Airport, CA.

Join us for an evening celebration as part of TRI’s 20-year milestone!

 

Conference FAQs

  • The conference theme is “Rooted in Well-Being. Planted in Community. Cultivated by Hope.”

    The aim of this event is to reflect on TRI’s global impact, celebrate our shared work, and shape a forward-looking vision grounded in resilience and community wellbeing. We also hope to foster meaningful connections and dialogue across diverse communities of practice, sectors, and regions.

    This 2½-day gathering will bring together approximately 150 in-person participants and over 100 virtual attendees, including current and past training participants, facilitators, board members, community partners, and staff.

    Conference topics will include application of CRM and TRM models in various settings and diverse populations, current research studies, innovative and groundbreaking programs, and interactive or hands-on activities you can integrate into your practice.

    More details about keynote speakers, presenters, and sessions will be announced soon.

  • The conference will take place on October 2 – 4, 2026 at Doubletree by Hilton Claremont.

    555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont, CA 91711

    The hotel is 12 miles from Ontario (ONT) International Airport, CA.

    TRI’s 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner will be on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, at 6:30 pm.

    Virtual access to the conference will also be available through the Whova platform. 

  • This 20-year gathering brings together the TRI community, past and present, as well as those interested in the future of resilience-based work.

    We welcome long-time partners, trained practitioners, educators, community leaders, and those newly engaging with TRI’s models to connect, reflect and celebrate.

  • Registration is now LIVE on our website!

    Follow our website and email updates for announcements.

    Early Bird registration will be from June 1 – 30.

    Deadline for in-person registration is September 10, 2026 and virtual registration will close on September 30, 2026.

  • Tiered Conference Pricing:

    In-Person: 

    Full Conference Pass

    • October 2–4 (Three Days)

    • $350 (Early Bird: $325)

    • Experience the full three-day conference, including all sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities.

    One-Day Pass

    • $175 (Early Bird: $150)

    • Valid for any one day (October 2, 3, or 4)

    • Access to all sessions and programming for your selected day.

    Gala Ticket

    • $75

    • Join us for an evening celebration as part of TRI’s 20-year milestone.

    Virtual 

    • (Oct 2 – 4): $275 (Early Bird = $250) 

    Discounted Rates

    • In-Person Volunteer Discount:20%-60% for up to 15 hours of volunteer work.

    • Student Discount: 40%

  • TRI anticipates offering up to approximately 11-20 Continuing Education (CE) units for eligible attendees.

    Additional information regarding registration and fees will be shared closer to the event.

  • You may purchase a ticket for yourself and guest(s) for the Gala Dinner (optional): $75 each

    Click HERE to purchase Gala tickets.

  • Accommodation available onsite at DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont with block discounts beginning Oct. 1, 2026 through Oct. 5, 2026. Singles/Doubles Rate per night: $179 + taxes 

    Group Code: TRA

    Link: https://group.doubletree.com/vdldle Reservation cut-off date Sept. 10

    When you stay where the conference will be held, you maximize connecting and networking with other participants and attending the sessions without the hassle of traffic in the greater Los Angeles area.

  • Visit our website, follow our social media channels, or sign up for email updates to receive the latest news and announcements.

    All registered attendees (in-person and virtual) will receive access to the Whova online platform where you can access the program schedule, select break-out sessions, and other additional information.

  • For general inquiries, please email TRIconference@communitytri.com

  • Yes. A limited number of volunteer opportunities may be available for attendees interested in supporting the conference.

    Selected volunteers may be eligible for discounted registration based on volunteer responsibilities and hours.

    Please complete the Volunteer Interest Form for more information.

    Click HERE to access the form.

  • Business casual is acceptable.

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