American Association of University Women
AAUW of NC State Conference
April 17 – 18, 2026 – Charlotte, North Carolina
“Hats Off to Her: Join the Race for Equity”
The Carolina Derby Experience
Conference Agenda
The Winners Circle: Friday: April 17, 2026
Reception 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., Awards 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
The Winners Circle celebrates the trailblazers, sojourners, advocates, and emerging leaders who keep AAUW’s mission in motion, advancing equity through education, leadership, and advocacy. The goal is to honor outstanding women and branches in North Carolina. Like a derby, progress requires preparation, perseverance, and teamwork. Together, we’ll tip our hats to those who paved the way and gather momentum for the next lap toward equality.
- Derby elegance meets empowerment. Award categories; Equity, Leadership, Advocacy, Education.
- Dress-up element: Attendees are asked to wear their finest hats or fascinators for a celebratory awards event.
Run for Equity: Saturday, April 18, 2026 8:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.
Derby Dialogues, sessions on leadership and policy
- 8:30 – 9:15 a.m. Pacing Presidents and Vice Presidents & Trotting Treasurers
- 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Riders Up
- 11:00 – 12:15 p.m. Derby for Diversity Luncheon
- 12:20 – 1:15 p.m. Galloping Governance (bylaws, voting, installation)
- 1:20 – 3:15 p.m. Parade to Pay Equity
- Prized Public Policy
- Steeplechase in STEM
- Neck and Neck to NCCWSL
- Race to Read
- 3:15 p.m. The Closing Kick
Lodging Information
- Location: Hilton Airport 2800 Coliseum Centre Drive Charlotte, NC 28217
- Rate: $159 per night including breakfast Phone: 704-357-1414 Book by: March 19, 2026
- American Assoc of University Women
- Code: 93J
- Booking Link: https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/americanassociationofuniversitywomen/
WATCH FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN A SPECIAL AAUW NC CONNECT NEWSLETTER
This Connect special issue will provide details on how to reserve your place at the conference and how to pay for your registration.