2026 C.A.R.E. Education Event

Registration is Now Open!

C.A.R.E. Education Event | September 15, 2026
Obama Presidential Center, Forum Building
6001 South Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL
3:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Program Agenda:
3:00 – 3:30 PM: Registration & Vendor Networking
3:30 – 5:15 PM: Educational Sessions & Keynote
5:30 – 7:30 PM: Self-Guided Museum Access & Exploration of the Obama Presidential Center (No food or beverage permitted within the museum exhibits)
5:30 – 7:30 PM: Networking Reception in Designated Event Space (Guests may choose between networking and museum exploration throughout the evening)

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Keynote Details:
Leading Without Armor: Creating Culture Through Authenticity, Vulnerability, and Empathy

Culture isn’t created through mission statements or company values hanging on a wall. It’s created through everyday interactions, conversations, and the courage to show up authentically. In a world where people are craving connection, trust, and belonging, leaders have an opportunity to shape cultures where people feel seen, heard, valued, and empowered to contribute their best work. But creating that kind of environment requires more than good intentions; it requires vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and the willingness to lead as a human first.

In this engaging and interactive keynote, award-winning speaker Courtney Stanley explores how authenticity becomes the foundation for stronger relationships, deeper trust, and more empathetic workplace cultures. Through powerful peer-to-peer storytelling, practical strategies, and meaningful audience reflection, attendees will discover how to foster genuine connection, communicate with greater intention, and create environments where people feel safe to contribute, collaborate, and thrive.

Learning Outcomes:

• Leverage vulnerability as a strength that fosters connection and psychological safety
• Create a culture where people feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute
• Strengthen self-awareness and emotional intelligence to become a more impactful leader

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Registration:
Registration is limited and we expect to sell out! Planners can apply to be hosted here.

Registration Options:

• Professional Member Planner: $85
• Partner Member Supplier: $175
• Hosted Planner Package:
  one (1) supplier and three (3) planner tickets: $400
  one (1) supplier and five (5) planner tickets: $500
• Faculty Member: $60
• Student: $50
• Nonmember Planner: $100
• Nonmember Supplier: $180

Museum admission is included in the registration fee. To receive museum admission, attendees must attend the full education program from 3:30–5:15 PM.

Event Policies:
Online Registration: Online registration will close 3 business days prior to the event date.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellation of registration must be submitted in writing via email to [email protected]. If a registrant cancels within 7 days of the event, they will forfeit 50% of the registration fee. If a registrant cancels within 3 days of the event, they forfeit the entire registration fee. No shows forfeit the entire registration fee. If a registration refund is owed, the refund will be processed within 7-14 business days to the original method of payment.
Registration Transfer Policy: Requests to transfer registration from one individual to another will be accepted in writing via email to [email protected] and must be made before the online registration deadline (3 business days prior to the event date). After this date, the new individual must register on site.
Walk in Policy: We highly recommend registering online before the event. Any attendee who registers on site will be charged an extra 10% of the applicable registration fee for their membership type. Onsite registration may not always be available. Please check the event website regularly for the latest updates and current walk-in registration policy.

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Parking & Transportation:
Parking at the Obama Presidential Center is limited. Choose Chicago is generously sponsoring shuttle service for this event. Shuttles will run from a downtown location, with details shared with registered guests closer to the event date. Let us know if you are interested in the shuttle to/from the venue within your event registration.

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PCMA-GMC Cares- Self Care Drive for WINGS
Self- care is an important part of the healing process for families rebuilding their lives following domestic violence. Many arrive with little more than the clothes they’re wearing — and your support helps ensure they have products designed for their needs and make them feel their best. Thank you for being part of a community that shows up when it matters most. ❤️ Check out the wish list HERE on Amazon.

Wings Mission
The mission of WINGS Program, Inc. is to provide housing, integrated services, education and advocacy to end domestic violence.

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Click here for sponsorship opportunities!

Already know what you’d like to sponsor? Complete the GMC PCMA Sponsorship Enrollment Form & email it to us at [email protected] to get started!

Thank you to our Sponsors! 

Title Sponsor:

Education Sponsor:

Registration & Presidential Experience Sponsor:

Reception Sponsor:

Bar Sponsor:

Display Table Sponsor:

Commercial Sponsor:

Photography Sponsor:

Signage Sponsor:

Shuttle Sponsor: