2026 SPARC National Conference: Full Schedule

October 4-7, 2026 | Scottsdale, AZ, USA | Conference Website | Accommodations | Contact us
Please note the schedule is subject to change. Details are updated regularly to reflect the latest information.

8:00pm MST

Bonfire: Welcome Gathering

Sunday October 4, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST

Tropicana

As the SPARC National Conference begins, step into a relaxed, welcoming space designed to ease you into the experience with warmth, conversation, and connection. This casual evening session where all participants (new and returning) can wind down from the day of travel and gather around the shared purpose that brings us together: our passion for building impactful summer and auxiliary programs…and a good drink and some music! Think of this as your invitation to exhale, settle in, and light the path for the rest of the week.

This event is sponsored by ACTIVE Network.

Sponsors

ACTIVE Network

ACTIVE Network revolutionizes the way camps and classes engage with their communities, enhancing participation and connection through innovative technology. Our comprehensive suite of solutions simplifies the management of registrations, schedules, and communications, allowing camp... Read More →

Sunday October 4, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
Tropicana

Roundtable

8:00pm MST

Campfire Hour: Evening Connection & Reflection

Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST

Tropicana

After full days of learning, networking, and innovation, Campfire Hour offers a warm, welcoming space to unwind, connect, and reflect. These one-hour evening gatherings at the SPARC national conference are designed to evoke the spirit of a traditional campfire— spaces where stories are shared, relationships are kindled, and moments of stillness are honored. Each Campfire Hour invites participants to decompress and engage in thoughtful, low-pressure conversations that nurture introspection, build professional bonds, and center personal purpose in the midst of an energizing conference. Whether you’re new to the field, seasoned in leadership, Campfire Hour is your chance to slow down and soak in the ”sparcs” of connection.

This event is sponsored by ACTIVE Network.

Moderators

Nancy Hartmann

Director of Auxiliary Programs, Pike School

David Sullivan

Senior Advisor, Summer Programs and Auxiliary Revenue Collaborative (SPARC)

David began his career in education as an instructor, then Director, at Explo and later was on the faculty at Milton Academy and Northfield Mount Hermon School. For the last 23 of his 36 year career, he led The Brooklin School and Breakwater Learning, the latter being an educational... Read More →

Sponsors

ACTIVE Network

Monday October 5, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST
Tropicana

Roundtable

8:00pm MST

Campfire Hour: Evening Connection & Reflection

Tuesday October 6, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm MST

Tropicana

Moderators

8:00pm MST

8:00pm MST

8:00pm MST

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