Learn from the Leaders Shaping the Future of Learning and Work
The Career-Connected L/Earning Conference brings together influential voices from education, workforce, business, government, philanthropy, and industry to explore the ideas, partnerships, and innovations transforming how learners connect to meaningful careers.
Over two days, you'll hear from nationally recognized keynote speakers, Colorado leaders, practitioners, researchers, employers, educators, and learners who are driving real change across the education-to-workforce ecosystem.
Whether you're looking for strategic insights, practical tools, innovative programs, or inspiring success stories, you'll find sessions designed to inform, challenge, and equip you to move your work forward.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER - Chris Gardner: Rebuilding the American Dream
We are thrilled to announce that bestselling author, entrepreneur, and workforce equity advocate Chris Gardner will keynote the 2026 Career-Connected L/Earning Conference. Known around the world as the inspiration behind The Pursuit of Happyness, Gardner’s story of resilience, determination, and economic mobility has inspired millions.
His keynote — “Rebuilding the American Dream, One Good Job at a Time” — could not come at a more important moment. As education, industry, policy, and community leaders work to strengthen pathways to economic mobility, Gardner will challenge attendees to rethink what it takes to ensure every learner and earner has access to meaningful careers and long-term success.
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
COMMUNITY COLLEGE LEADERS PANEL
Aligning Education and Workforce for Colorado's Future
As Colorado continues to strengthen connections between education and workforce systems, community colleges play a vital role in preparing learners for meaningful careers while helping employers meet evolving talent needs.
Join an engaging conversation with four of Colorado's leading community college presidents as they explore how institutions are adapting to changing workforce demands, building stronger partnerships with industry, and creating pathways that expand opportunity for learners across the state.
Panelists
- Dr. Marielena DeSanctis - Chancellor, Colorado Community College System
- Dr. Mordecai Brownlee - President, Community College of Aurora
- Dr. Lance Bolton - President, Pikes Peak State College
- Dr. Rosana Reyes - President, Lamar Community College
Together, these leaders will discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping higher education today—from responding to regional workforce needs and strengthening employer partnerships to advancing economic mobility and ensuring every learner has access to high-quality career-connected pathways.
Whether you're an educator, employer, policymaker, workforce professional, or community leader, this session will offer valuable insights into how Colorado's community colleges are helping build a more connected, responsive, and opportunity-driven education and workforce ecosystem.
Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown - Approximately 0.3 miles (7-minute walk)
Contemporary accommodations featuring an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and convenient access to the conference venue.
Kinship Landing -
Approximately 0.4 miles (8-minute walk)
A modern boutique hotel offering stylish rooms, social gathering spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
Hyatt Place Colorado Springs / Downtown -
Approximately 0.4 miles (8-minute walk)
Spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast options, indoor pool, and convenient downtown location.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Colorado Springs Central - Approximately 2.5 miles (8-minute drive, 15 minute walk)
Comfortable accommodations with complimentary breakfast, free parking, an indoor pool, and easy access to downtown Colorado Springs and the conference venue.
Booking Your Stay
We recommend reserving your accommodations as soon as possible to secure your preferred hotel and the best available rates.