2025 NAC Pre-conference Workshop-"The Future of Engagement Starts Here: An industry co-creation workshop"

How do we push public engagement beyond the familiar? In an era of deep polarization, rapidly changing technologies, and institutional fatigue, innovation is no longer a luxury - it’s a necessity. But where to begin? This interactive, hands-on session will challenge practitioners to think critically and co-create where we want the field of public engagement to go and how best to get there. We’ll start by examining the current state of engagement across the sector and identifying the trickiest problems we face as a field. Then, we'll explore where the field should be headed, and begin to crystalize a clear, actionable vision. Finally, we'll generate creative, future-oriented solutions using structured facilitation techniques. This will be action and dialogue-packed. The session will also demonstrate tools such as AI brainstorming aids and Socratic Circle dialogue to stretch participants’ thinking about what’s possible. Whether you’re already experimenting with innovations or just starting to feel the limits of traditional methods, this session will help us name where innovation is most needed, how to do it well, and why it matters - not just for practitioners, but for the people and communities we engage.

Pre-conference workshop registration is required. Attendees can register until space is full. Limit 25 participants.

Date and Time: 

September 28, 2025, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Central

Grand Hyatt - 600 East Market St., San Antonio, TX 78205 

Cost: 

Free with conference registration, but workshop registration is required. Attendees can register until space is full. Limit 25 participants. 

Note: registrants must be attendees of the 2025 North American Conference. Visit the conference website for more information