Learning Series
In 2027, OACB is introducing a new approach to professional development designed to expand access, encourage collaboration, and provide meaningful learning opportunities throughout the year.
As part of this transition, OACB will not hold a traditional Spring Conference in 2027. Instead, the conference is being replaced by the OACB 2027 Learning Series — a collection of focused, stand-alone events centered on the topics that matter most to county board professionals.
Each session will feature expert presenters and content similar to what attendees would experience in a conference breakout track, but with greater flexibility to dive deeper into discussions, incorporate hands-on learning opportunities, allow for networking and collaboration, and tailor the experience to the specific topic and audience. Without the limitations of traditional conference breakout schedules, presenters and event coordinators will have more freedom to create engaging learning experiences that best fit each subject area.
This new format was developed with member feedback and fiscal responsibility in mind. By hosting one-day events from 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., attendees can travel to and from the event on the same day, reducing the need for overnight hotel stays and additional travel expenses while still benefiting from valuable in-person engagement.
While virtual learning continues to play an important role, there is still tremendous value in gathering face-to-face with peers from across Ohio. The Learning Series creates opportunities to share ideas, discuss challenges, build relationships, and collaborate with professionals who understand the work of county boards of developmental disabilities.
Whether you attend one session or several throughout the year, the OACB 2027 Learning Series offers flexible, affordable, and topic-focused professional development opportunities designed to support Ohio’s county board community.
Registration for the Communications session on January 20 is now open! Learn more and register here.
Schedule
Save the date(s)! More information about each session will be posted closer to the event.
Wednesday, January 20, 2027 - Communications (Registration is Live!)
Monday, February 8, 2027 - Wellness in the Workplace
Thursday, March 25, 2027 - MUI
Monday, April 5, 2027 - Housing
Monday, May 10, 2027 - Early Intervention
Monday, June 7, 2027 - School Age
Thursday, July 22, 2027 - SSA
Monday, October 18, 2027 - Employment
Attendee Registration
Communications: Wednesday, January 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Cost: $90
Hotel
All sessions will be held at the Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel, located at 409 Altair Parkway, Westerville, Ohio 43082.
A limited number of rooms will be reserved for those wishing to stay overnight. Please contact Lauren Conrath (lconrath@oacbdd.org) if you're interested in booking a room.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Become an OACB Learning Series Sponsor!
Support professional development while putting your organization in front of leaders and professionals from Ohio's 88 county boards of developmental disabilities!
OACB's 2027 Learning Series offers focused, in-depth educational opportunities throughout the year, bringing together professionals who are committed to strengthening services and supports for people with developmental disabilities.
As a sponsor, your organization will gain valuable visibility among key decision-makers and professionals across Ohio's DD system while demonstrating your commitment to education, innovation, and collaboration. Sponsorship is an opportunity to build meaningful connections, showcase your organization's support for the DD community, and help make high-quality professional development accessible to those who need it most.
Partner with OACB to invest in the professionals who make a difference every day!
Gold ($5,000)
- Premier recognition at all 8 Learning Series sessions.
- 5–10-minute presentation slot for your organization during the lunch hour of one session of your choosing.
- Premier logo placement on Learning Series materials and OACB website.
- Recognition in Learning Series promotional emails, select OACB social media posts, and OACB publication.
- Vendor table (based on availability).
Lanyard ($3,000)
- Logo printed on all lanyards for series attendees to wear at all sessions during the year
- Recognition at all 8 Learning Series sessions.
- Logo placement on Learning Series materials and OACB website
Silver ($2,500)
- Recognition at all 8 Learning Series sessions.
- Logo placement on Learning Series materials and on the OACB website.
- Recognition in select Learning Series promotional emails.
- Opportunity to provide promotional materials to Learning Series participants.
Bronze ($1,000)
- Recognition at all 8 Learning Series sessions.
- Organization name listed on the OACB website as a Learning Series supporter.
Day Sponsor ($1,000 - $2,500 depending on attendance)
- Sponsor a Learning Series session of your choosing.
- Vendor table.
- Logo placement on Learning Series materials for that session.
Lunch ($500)
- Recognition at a Learning Series session of choice.
- Logo on signage during lunch.
For questions about sponsorship, contact Lauren Conrath (lconrath@oacbdd.org).