2026 Engaging Women of Color in Public Service Conference & Membership

Presented by Engaging Women of Color in Public Service in partnership with Central Pines Regional Council

Join public servants from across North Carolina for the 2026 Engaging Women of Color in Public Service (EWC) Annual Conference, a day dedicated to connection, empowerment, professional growth, and collective care.

This year's keynote presentation, "Paying the Black Tax at Work: A Trauma-Informed Workshop Experience," will be led by Crystal R. Currie, Ph.D., LCMHC, Founder and CEO of ThriveWell Strategies. Through a trauma-informed lens, Dr. Currie will explore the often-unspoken emotional, mental, and professional burdens that many women of color experience in workplace environments. Participants will gain practical tools for navigating workplace challenges, prioritizing well-being, and fostering resilience while advancing in public service careers.

Conference Schedule

• Registration & Networking: 8:00 a.m.

• Program Begins: 9:00 a.m.

About Engaging Women of Color in Public Service

Engaging Women of Color (EWC) is an informal, welcoming, and supportive network of public servants representing counties, municipalities, and public organizations throughout North Carolina. Formed following a School of Government workshop in 2021, EWC brings together women of color serving in a wide range of leadership and professional roles—including city and county managers, clerks, planners, analysts, elected officials, and more.

EWC provides a space:

• To connect with women who understand the unique experiences and demands of public service through the lens of a woman of color;

• To explore and address the impacts of the "superwoman" mentality, whether self-imposed or externally expected;

• To engage in candid conversations about workplace and personal challenges while sharing advice, support, and resources;

• To contribute to and learn from research focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, leadership, and belonging in public service.

We invite you to join us for a powerful day of learning, reflection, networking, and inspiration as we continue building stronger, healthier, and more inclusive public service organizations together.

Registration Options

Conference registration includes the option to attend as a guest or become a member of the Engaging Women of Color network, gaining access to ongoing programming, monthly meetings, and a growing community of support.

• Annual Membership Fee: $75 - Registration period ends September 15, 2026. This option includes annual membership AND conference registration.

• Conference Registration Fee: $125 - Registration period ends September 15, 2026. This option includes conference registration only.

• Non-Profit/Student Fee: $50 - Registration period ends September 15, 2026. This option includes conference registration only.

• Support My Sister Donation: $10-$125 - This is an option to sponsor a membership or conference registration in addition to your own registration.

• Vendor Fee: $50 - Registration period ends September 25, 2026. This option includes a space and table in Exhibits Row and Agenda Advertisement. Limited to 5 vendors.

• Sponsor Fee: $500 - $1,500 - Registration period ends September 25, 2026. This option includes a space and table in Exhibits Row, Agenda Advertisement, and up to 3 (based on sponsor level) Shoutouts during conference or on social media platforms, and a Pause for a Pitch ((based on sponsor level) presentation limited to 3 minutes) to attendees.