2026 annual conference
Learning
Without limits
Nov. 10-13, 2026 | VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, Muskegon, MI
about the conference
Learning Without Limits explores how adult and alternative education providers are expanding pathways to success by embracing innovation, strengthening partnerships, and breaking down barriers that prevent learners from reaching their goals.
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Join more than 300 educators, program directors, administrators, workforce development professionals, and community partners from across Michigan for MACAE's premier annual gathering. Together, we'll explore innovative strategies, emerging technologies, and collaborative solutions that create learner-centered systems, strengthen communities, and expand opportunities for lifelong learning. Discover what's possible when education is accessible, responsive, and designed without limits.
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Networking Opportunities
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50+ Breakout Sessions
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Inspiring Speakers
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300+ Attendees
Exhibitor Hall
STATE SPONSOR
Thank you to our sponsors!
PREMIER SPONSOR
BREAKFAST SPONSORS
GIVEAWAY SPONSOR
EXHIBITOR RECEPTION SPONSOR
EXHIBITOR FRIEND OF MACAE SPONSORS
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POWER BREAK SPONSOR
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center
Conference center
460 W. Western Ave., Muskegon, MI 49440Â
schedule-at-a-glance
12:00 - 6:00 PM - Exhibitor Set Up & Registration
3:00 - 6:00 PM - Attendee Registration
3:00 - 4:00 PM - Board of Directors Meeting
4:30 - 5:30 PM - First Time Attendees Informational Session
7:00 - 10:00 PM - President's Reception at Pigeon Hill Brewing Company
7:30 AM - Registration Opens
8:00 - 9:00 AM - Breakfast
9:00 - 9:30 AM - Welcome & Overview of Conference
9:30 - 10:30 AM - Keynote Address
10:45 - 11:45 AM - Breakout Session 1
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM - Lunch
12:45 - 1:45 PM - Breakout Session 2
2:00 - 3:00 PM - Breakout Session 3
3:00 - 4:00 PM - Burlington English Exhibitor Reception
4:00 - 5:00 PM - Breakout Session 4
6:00 - 9:00 PM - Networking Event at Sociobowl
6:00 - 9:00 PM - Game Night at Convention Center
8:00 - 9:00 AM - Breakfast
9:00 - 9:30 AM - Welcome & Annual Meeting
9:30 - 10:30 AM - General Session
10:45 - 11:45 AM - Breakout Session 5
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM - Lunch
12:15 - 1:00 PM - Awards & Raffle Drawings
1:15 - 2:15 PM - Breakout Session 6
2:15 - 2:45 PM - Networking & Exhibitor Break
2:45 - 3:45 PM - Breakout Session 7
4:00 - 5:00 PM - Breakout Session 8
7:00 - 10:00 PM - Karaoke at Unruly Brewing CompanyÂ
8:00 - 9:00 AM - Breakfast
9:15 - 10:15 AM - Breakout Session 9
10:30 - 11:45 AM - Michigan Adult Education: Annual Update & Strategic Outlook
11:45 AM - 12:00 PM - Closing Remarks
12:00 PM - End of Conference
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Submit a Presentation
Share your expertise! We're seeking engaging, practical sessions that highlight innovative practices, learner success, workforce partnerships, technology, AI, and other topics shaping the future of adult, community, and alternative education. Presentations will be one hour in length.
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Proposal submissions are due August 28, 2026. Click below to review the full RFP and submission guidelines.
Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor
Become a sponsor or exhibitor at the 2026 MACAE Annual Conference! Connect with more than 300 education professionals from across Michigan. As the statewide organization supporting adult and alternative education, MACAE provides sponsors and exhibitors with valuable opportunities to showcase their resources, build connections, and engage with education leaders.
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Exhibitors will enjoy dedicated vendor space, networking opportunities, and a special vendor reception during the conference.