2025 AANC CONNECTed

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CONNECTed
AANC Education & Legislative Conference

MAY 12-14, 2025 l RALEIGH, NC
8 CECs

CONNECTed is the premier annual event for our statewide members.
Join us for diverse educational sessions, networking opportunities with peers,
and advocacy efforts for key industry issues at the North Carolina Legislature.

ITEMS TO NOTE!

Accessibility Enhancement
An online platform will be provided in the general sessions for translations for the hard of hearing and in other languages.

New Event
"Connections & Cocktails: AANC Mix & Mingle" replaces the Monday night trade show
to allow exhibitors and attendees to network in a relaxed setting. 

Session Updates
The Legal Issues Update had been upgraded to a general session on Tuesday evening for broader attendance.

Bryan Saint, the 2024 magician, returns for the recognition lunch!


KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Opening Keynote: Joel Zeff

Joel Zeff creates energy! His spontaneous humor and vital messages have thrilled audiences for more than 25 years. As a national speaker, work culture expert, author, and humorist, Joel captivates audiences with a unique blend of hilarious improvisational comedy and essential ideas on work and life. He has shared his experience and insight on collaboration, leadership, change, communication, innovation, fun and passion at more than 2,500 events. His book, “Make the Right Choice: Creating a Positive, Innovative and Productive Work Life” is consistently listed as one of the top work/life balance books on Amazon. He has appeared on CNBC and featured in the Dallas Morning News, Houston Chronicle, The Kansas City Star, and many other media outlets.

Closing Keynote: Deborah Gardner

Meet Deborah Gardner, a dynamic entrepreneur, in-demand keynote speaker, six-time bestselling author, and pro athlete. She helps hundreds of companies and organizations advance to new levels of success while working and living in the fast lane. Deborah's competitive edge stems from her diverse experiences: Marine brat, Olympic Trial swimmer, CBS Sports broadcaster, and successful business owner. Recently, she was named one of Meetings Today Magazine's Top 20 Trendsetters, Smart Meetings Magazine’s Top 50 Smart Women Leaders, Top 30 Hospitality Gurus, Fabulous Arizona Magazine’s Fabulous People to Watch, and crowned Mrs. America 2021/2022.


Questions? Email info@aanconline.org