Conference Details
Cost
The cost to attend is $200 which includes access to the keynote session, lunch, and the conference reception.
Key Dates
September 1, 2026: Deadline for presentation proposal submissions
September 15, 2026: Notification of proposal acceptance
October 1, 2026: Conference registration deadline
October 10, 2026: Paper submission deadline
Accomodations
A discounted group rate has been arranged with the Courtyard by Marriott San Marcos. Rooms at the conference rate are available on a limited basis, so we encourage attendees to reserve their accommodations as early as possible.
Conference Rate: $119.00 USD per night
Reservation Deadline: October 15, 2026
Agenda
| Saturday, November 7, 2026 | |
| 8:00 A.M. | Check-In and Networking |
| 8:45 A.M. | Welcome Remarks |
| 9:00 A.M. | Keynote Speaker |
| 10:00 A.M. | Break |
| 10:15 A.M. | Presentations |
| 11:15 A.M. | Break |
| 11:30 A.M. | Presentations |
| 12:30 P.M. | Lunch |
| 1:30 P.M. | Presentations |
| 2:30 P.M. | Break |
| 2:45 P.M. | Presentations |
| 3:45 P.M. | Break |
| 4:00 P.M. | DBA Director's Panel |
| 5:00 P.M. | Awards |
| 5:15 P.M. | Reception |
Venue
Texas State University
San Marcos Campus
McCoy Hall, Minifie Atrium 434
Keynote Speaker: Herb Dyer
Chief Executive Officer at Hospice Austin | MPA
Herb Dyer is an accomplished leader known for his dynamic and inspirational style, with a remarkable ability to motivate and direct high-performance teams toward exceptional results. He provides executive coaching, strategic planning, and leadership development programs to various organizations. Currently, he serves as the CEO of Hospice Austin, where he is responsible for setting the organization’s strategic goals and overseeing its programs and services. Before joining Hospice Austin, Herb was the President of Daughters of Charity Ministries, a principal consultant at Axiom Learning Solutions, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Seton Healthcare Family and the Vice President at Ascension Health.
Herb holds a Master’s in Public Affairs from Baruch College, City University of New York. His dedication to community service has been recognized with Distinguished Service Awards from the YMCA and the Kyle Chamber of Commerce. He is a sought-after guest lecturer at the University of Texas and other institutions in the greater Austin area, where he mentors students and emerging leaders.
Questions
For any questions about the conference, please email Elliott Powell, the online graduate programs manager.