Register for the 2026 NFPW Conference in Maryland! 
Registration is now open for the 2026 NFPW Conference, September 24-26 at the Turf Valley Resport in Ellicott City, Maryland.
Our conference theme "Ink, Influence, Innovation: Communicating at 250," celebrates the power of words that shaped a revolution — and the communicators who continue to shape what comes next. From the ink that launched a new democracy to the innovations transforming media today, this conference honors our legacy while looking boldly ahead
Featuring educational programming, receptions and award ceremonies, networking opportunities and tours, the conference offers something for communicators who want to broaden their knowledge and increase their professional connections.
An evening welcome reception on September 24th overlooking the Turf Valley golf course launches two days of dynamic panels and presentations; inspiring awards ceremonies; and ample opportunities to learn, laugh, network, explore and expand your horizons.
Learn about registration
Ink, Influence, Innovation: Inspiring & Professional Programming
Get ready for inspiring and professional programming at the 2026 NFPW Communications Conference! Under the theme Ink, Influence, Innovation, sessions will explore the evolving world of communications—from the enduring power of storytelling and journalism to the new tools and strategies shaping the future of media. Attendees will gain fresh insights, practical skills, and meaningful connections to help them inform, influence, and innovate in their work.
A few of the programming highlights include:
 John DeDakis, former editor on CNN's "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer," provides a keynote From Journalist to Novelist (Or How I Learned to Start Making it Up). DeDakis is the author of six award-winning, journalism-based novels in the Lark Chadwick mystery-suspense-thriller series. A former White House correspondent, DeDakis is also a writing coach, manuscript editor, podcaster, and motivational speaker. He has a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and he’s a graduate of the U.S. military’s Defense Information School (DINFOS). Originally from La Crosse, Wisconsin, DeDakis now lives in Baltimore with Cindy, his wife of 48 years.
  Telling the Untold: Women, National Security, and a New Model for Storytelling: How do you tell powerful stories about national security in a world where attention is fragmented, trust is fragile, and much of the most meaningful work has traditionally stayed behind closed doors? In this conversation, Megan Jaffer and Carrie Drake of Iron Butterfly Media will discuss how they are building a different kind of media company, one focused on bringing forward the voices, leadership, and lived experiences of women in and around national security. The panel will explore the tension between discretion and transparency, the role of communications strategy in shaping public understanding, and how evolving media consumption is changing the way stories are created, shared, and sustained. Together, they will examine how thoughtful storytelling can expand access, deepen connection, and challenge outdated narratives about power, service, and who gets seen.
 Richard Bell is Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of the book Stolen: Five Free Boys Kidnapped into Slavery and their Astonishing Odyssey Home which was a finalist for the George Washington Prize and the Harriet Tubman Prize. He has held major research fellowships at Yale, Cambridge, and the Library of Congress and is the recipient of the National Endowment of the Humanities Public Scholar award and the Andrew Carnegie Fellowship. He will share insights into his new book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World.
Book 1:1 Consultations with Veteran Communicators
If you’re starting your career or seeking new opportunities in communications, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with veteran professionals who will review your CVs, clips and portfolios and offer advice.
To schedule a time for your review, please email Lisa Volz, NFPW Executive Director. Include your name, cell phone number, and type of portfolio review you need (i.e. manuscript, CV, photography, graphic design, etc.). We will do our best to match you with a qualifed expert in the field. The sessions are free but available by appointment only. The deadline to request an appointment is Friday, September 4.erve Your Lodgi
Come Early, Stay Late for Tours
Enjoy Ellicott City on September 22
Baltimore: History, Harbor & Hidden Gems on September 23
Pamper-palooza on September 23
Pamper-palooza on September 24
Seas the Day: Delaware Coast on September 27
 Book Your Lodging
Set on 1,000 scenic acres in the Baltimore - Washington, DC region, Turf Valley Resort is a beautiful golf and spa retreat in Ellicott City, MD. Turf Valley is a short distance from Maryland's unique attractions, including Historic Ellicott City and Patapsco Valley State Park. The resort is just 20 miles from Baltimore-Washington International Airport. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Central Maryland and their championship golf courses, Turf Valley Resort is a relaxing destination for NFPW's Communications Conference.
Click the link below and reserve your room. Use code 28K790 to receive the NFPW discounted rate of $155. The group discount is available until August 24, 2026. Important note: for members wishing to come early/stay late for tours, the Turf Valley advises that you reserve your room by phone (888-833-8873) so that the group rate can be properly applied to your extended visit.
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