Register today for the Association of Community Professionals 2026 Fall Conference!
INVEST. CONNECT. EMPOWER.
Join professionals in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field from across the state for two inspiring days of learning, connection, and recognition.
| Date: | October 15-16, 2026 |
| Location: | Holiday Inn at 110 2nd Ave, Kearney, NE 68847 |
Registration: $70.00
registration deadline: October 5, 2026
Conference Schedule
Thursday, Oct 15
- Registration begins at 8:15 am
- Conference: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- ACP Awards Luncheon during lunch hour recognizing outstanding direct support professionals.
- Hospitality room available for networking.
Featuring Speaker
Dr. Hassan M. Abdulhaqq
Dr. Hassan M. Abdulhaqq is a distinguished Human Resources Executive, professor, and keynote speaker with over 25 years of experience leading HR initiatives for some of the world’s largest non-profit and financial institutions. He currently serves as the President and CEO of HMA Consulting and Motivations.
Read Dr. Abdulhaqq’s Full Biography
In his consulting work, Dr. Abdulhaqq has personally impacted over 100 agencies and closely worked with more than 25 CEOs across over 35 states.
In addition to his executive leadership, Dr. Abdulhaqq is an adjunct professor affiliated with several prestigious institutions, including Columbia University, New York University, Stony Brook University, and the Webb Institute.
He holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and is a dedicated contributor to the HR field, serving on the Board of Directors for both SHRM Long Island and The Children’s Home of Kingston.
Friday, Oct 16
- Conference: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Conference concludes at noon
Featuring Speaker
Patricia Cottingham, EdD
Social Role Valorization
Patricia is a dedicated educational advocate and consultant with nearly three decades of experience driving person-centered support and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Read Dr. Cottingham’s Full Biography
Currently serving as the Inclusive Education Lay Advocacy Project Coordinator at Disability Rights Nebraska, Dr. Cottingham works to ensure students and families have the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate inclusive educational environments. Parallel to this role, Dr. Cottingham leads the Nebraska Values Based Education Coalition, partnering with community teams to further the understanding of Social Role Valorization and build strategies that lead to meaningful, inclusive outcomes.
Over her career, Dr. Cottingham has held key state and regional leadership roles, including serving as interim Director of the Arc of Nebraska and leading staff development and behavior training for Region V Services.
Hotel Information
Holiday Inn Kearney • 110 2nd Ave, Kearney, NE 68847 • (308) 237-5971
A block of hotel rooms are reserved under ACP special rate of $144.95 for the conference, so please book lodging before all the rooms are taken.
Don’t Wait, Register Today!
Includes:
✓ Conference for Thursday & Friday ✓ Awards Luncheon ✓ Annual ACP Membership
Registration: $70.00
registration deadline: October 5, 2026