What is the AE/GAD Summit?
The AE/GAD Summit is C.A.R.'s premier professional development conference for California Association Executives (AEs), Government Affairs Directors (GADs), and association staff.
The Summit brings together industry experts, innovators, and association professionals for engaging educational sessions, interactive discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
Whether you're looking to build new connections, exchange ideas with peers, or discover innovative solutions to today's challenges, the AE/GAD Summit provides the knowledge, resources, and inspiration to help you and your association thrive.
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
Day One - October 19
Registration Desk Open
10:00am - 5:00pm
Opening: Welcome to AE/GAD Summit
1:00pm – 1:15pm
Opening Keynote
1:15pm – 2:00pm
The AE + GAD Partnership
2:00pm – 2:50pm
Communicating Through Complexity: Building Trust with Boards, Leaders, and Members
3:00pm – 3:45pm
The Changing Political Landscape
4:00pm – 5:00pm
Reception Dinner
6:30pm – 8:00pm
Day Two - October 20
Welcome Back & Day 2 Kickoff
9:00am – 9:15am
Political Consultants Panel
9:15am – 10:15am
Building Advocacy Capacity: Strategies for Associations of Every Size
10:30am – 11:30am
Navigating Today's Association Landscape
11:45am – 12:30pm
Campfire Conversations
12:30pm – 1:00pm
Event & Housing Registration
Register to attend the 2026 AE/GAD Summit! Join the movement as we advance association excellence together!
Registration is $249 per attendee; registrants will have access to the event app, all educational sessions, welcome reception, breakfast on day two, and more!
The event will take place at the beautiful Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach. C.A.R. has secured a block of rooms at a discounted rate of $344 per night, plus tax. Overnight parking is $29 per day (valet only). These negotiated rates are available on a first come basis.
How to Use ALF Funds
to Cover Expenses
Since the topic of advocacy is a primary focus of the AE/GAD Summit program, associations can utilize their Advocacy Local Funds (ALF) to cover the travel costs associated with the AE/GAD Summit. To do this, attendees must complete C.A.R.'s ALF Funding Request Form within 60 days following the event.