How NAGC Selects Annual Convention Locations 

How NAGC Selects Annual Convention Locations 

Each year, NAGC brings together educators, researchers, and advocates from across the country for our annual convention. We know where we gather matters. It shapes not only the experience itself, but also how we support and strengthen gifted education nationwide. 

Selecting a convention location is a thoughtful process that takes place over several years. Our goal is to balance access for our attendees, create a meaningful experience, and make responsible decisions for the organization. 

A multi-year planning process 

We begin identifying future convention locations two to three years in advance. This allows us to secure spaces that can accommodate our event while also planning a strong experience for attendees. 

At the same time, we are intentional about not planning too far ahead. This helps us stay flexible and make decisions that reflect current needs and priorities. 

Rotating across the country 

Our attendees live and work in every region of the United States. Because of that, we rotate convention locations across different parts of the country over time. 

This approach helps ensure more members have the opportunity to attend without traveling long distances each year. 

What we consider when selecting a location 

There is no single factor that determines where we host our convention. Instead, we look at a range of considerations to find the best overall fit. 

Accessibility and travel

We prioritize cities that are reasonably easy to reach, with strong airport access and a range of hotel options. We also look for venues that can comfortably support the size and scope of our event. 

Affordability for attendees

Cost matters. We evaluate hotel rates, convention space, and other expenses with the goal of keeping the event as accessible as possible for educators, schools, and districts. 

The overall attendee experience

We carefully consider what it will feel like to attend the convention in each city. This includes ease of travel, nearby amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for the attendees.

Local and regional engagement

Attendance is often strongest in the host state and surrounding region. We consider where we can have the greatest impact and where there is an opportunity to engage and grow the gifted education community. Historically, participation has also been higher in states with strong policies, funding, and infrastructure for gifted education. These factors help create a more robust and connected convention experience for attendees while supporting the long-term growth of the field.

Partnership with state affiliates

State affiliate partners play a critical role in where we host the annual convention. Because NAGC and affiliate conferences often occur around the same time, affiliates do not hold their own conventions when NAGC is in their state. Having a supportive and engaged affiliate ensures that hosting NAGC fits well with local plans, allows for strong collaboration, and helps us create the best experience for attendees. Their perspective strengthens the convention and supports the broader gifted education community.

From exploration to selection 

Once we identify a general region and timeframe, we work with professional meeting planners to explore possible cities and venues. We review proposals, compare options, and visit top locations before making a final decision. 

After a location is selected, we finalize agreements and begin planning the convention experience. 

Our commitment to our community 

At every step, our focus is on creating a high-quality experience while being thoughtful stewards of our resources. 

We know you are making an investment to attend. Our goal is to ensure that each annual convention is worth that investment and continues to move the field of gifted education forward.