ALAS 2026:
25 Years of Leadership, Legacy, and Learning
Renew and refresh at the 25th Annual ALAS!
The Ashland Leadership Academy Seminars (ALAS) is a Professional Learning Retreat designed exclusively for K-12 Administrative Leaders and Aspiring Leaders. Join colleagues from over 40 K-12 districts for engaging seminars, legal analysis by Ennis Britton Co., L.P.A., legislative updates, a book study, and plenty of opportunities to relax, network, and have some fun! Available for 3 Graduate Credits, or 36 Contact Hours from Ashland University.
ALAS is brought to you by the Telego Center for Educational Improvement and the Department of Professional Development Services at Ashland University.
Celebrate with Us!
New Format to Encourage Increased Connection and Reduced Travel
A Tradition of Excellence
For a quarter-century, the Ashland Leadership Academy Seminars (ALAS) have been a cornerstone of leadership development for Ohio K-12 Administrative Leaders. In 2026, we celebrate our 25th year with a new format designed to enhance connection and minimize travel, while continuing to deliver the high-quality, relevant content you've come to expect.
ALAS has always been more than just a seminar; it's a vibrant community of educational leaders. Our engaging workshops, thought-provoking book studies, and invaluable networking opportunities connect colleagues from over 40 Ohio school districts each year. Participants consistently share that the relationships forged at ALAS have a lasting impact on their careers and their students.
This year, the ALAS experience will be 3 in-person days and one live, virtual day!
- THURSDAY through Saturday @noon, Jan. 8-10: Live, In-Person, Sheraton Suites, Cuyahoga Falls
- SATURDAY, Feb. 7: Live, VIRTUAL
- Additional content for CEU or Grad Credit: Complete your ALAS 2026 experience at your own pace (online, asynchronously) through March 31! Although we highly encourage all participants to engage in this additional content, it is completely optional if you do not wish to earn CEUs or grad credits.
"What a refreshing escape! The hotel provided the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Comfortable rooms, delicious food, and a spacious ballroom made my stay truly enjoyable. It was exactly what I needed."
"This conference couldn't have come at a better time. The theme of the book and the insightful presentations addressed crucial issues in education today. The legal discussions added valuable perspectives, giving me new insights to navigate challenges in my district."
"ALAS continues to exceed my expectations, and connecting with fellow educators and sharing experiences is always a highlight! The presentations are informative, and I appreciate the practical ideas I can implement in my work. The legislative updates were invaluable for managing our district effectively."
Registration & Rates
Leadership Workshops (3 Days In-Person and 1 Day Live, Virtual)
ALAS Registration includes a copy of the chosen book (TBA), 36 contact hours of Professional Learning in Leadership, and all meals (Thursday evening banquet through Saturday morning breakfast).
UPDATED FORMAT:At this time, we do not plan to offer Virtual attendance for Jan. 8-10.
Registration rates and links will be updated by Aug. 15, 2025, stay tuned!
If your business or organization would like to become an ALAS sponsor, please contact Michelle D'Ambrosio, Manager, Telego Center for Educational Improvement, at mdambros@ashland.edu.
Join our Planning Committee!
Help shape content and keep this powerful leadership experience fresh and relevant to the challenges school districts are facing. Fill out this Planning Committee Interest Form and we'll be in touch!
- Time Commitment is minimal but impactful!
We meet once in the summer to brainstorm theme and book study ideas, as well as workshop content. After that, we touch base via email throughout the Fall (and if needed, one more meeting). - Spread the Word and Engage!
Our committee members also are crucial in getting other leaders to attend ALAS each year. Being invited by a colleague is always more effective than general marketing, and who knows best about the value of ALAS than those who've been there?