25+ Years of Leadership, Legacy, and Learning
Renew and refresh at ALAS!
The Ashland Leadership Academy Seminars (ALAS) is a Professional Learning Retreat designed exclusively for K-12 Administrative Leaders and Emerging Leaders. Join colleagues from over 40 K-12 districts for engaging seminars, legal analysis by Ennis Britton Co., L.P.A., legislative updates 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.
ALAS 2027: SAVE THE DATES
Jan. 8-9 & Feb. 5-6
In-Person at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls (Virtual Attendance also available)
ALAS 2027 Interest Form
Building Schools That Thrive — Dr. Peter Dry
Welcome Back, Peter!
Dr. Peter Dry delivered a virtual presentation at last year's ALAS and left a lasting impression on our Ohio school leaders. Based on the feedback we received, the feeling was mutual!
Since then, Dr. Dry has released a new book that aligns closely with the goals and learning experiences we hope to achieve at ALAS 2027. We invited him to return, and we're thrilled that he accepted.
Dr. Peter Dry’s Building Schools That Thrive: A Modern Framework for Every Level of School Leadership offers a practical, people‑centered approach to school leadership that blends decades of global experience with actionable strategies for creating cultures where both people and performance flourish.
Not only will Dr. Dry attend in person for both weekends to work with and inspire ALAS leaders, but he will also spend time working with our Planning Committee to help ensure ALAS 2027 delivers the most relevant, practical, and actionable content possible.
A copy of this book is included with your ALAS Registration. Pick up your book on Jan. 8 at the Sheraton Suites or let us know if you're attending virtually, or if you'd like it mailed ahead of time. Please allow 1-2 weeks for it to arrive.
Author 's Background
Dr. Peter Dry is a leadership consultant, educator, and founder of The PDL Group, with over 30 years of experience across five continents. He has worked as a senior school leader, leadership and team coach, and specialist in developing leaders at all levels, especially middle leaders, to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
He has a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Masters in Educational Management, certificates from Harvard Graduate School of Education, a certificate in International School Leadership and teaching and leadership experience in six countries. He is a certified Gallup Strengths coach and Appreciative Facilitator. Peter provides practical and effective solutions to team development, leadership and the mindset required to develop an outstanding organization.
Peter’s ability to lead change in organizations around the world has resulted in new and innovative practices in leadership and education proving his ability to create vision and translate it into practice.
"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."
Sponsorship Opportunities
A Tradition of Excellence
For over 25 years, the annual Ashland Leadership Academy Seminars (ALAS) have been a premier professional retreat for K–12 education leaders across Ohio. Held at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls—with a virtual option—ALAS offers powerful insights from top education leaders, meaningful peer collaboration, and a refreshing break from the demands of daily leadership.
Why Sponsor ALAS?
Partnering with ALAS connects your organization with influential decision-makers in education. Our sponsorship packages are designed to boost your visibility and foster meaningful engagement with school leaders.
Leadership Sponsor – $1,500
- Logo displayed during sessions and link shared with attendees
- Logo, name, and link featured on the ALAS website before, during, and for six months after the event
- 5-minute live presentation (in-person or virtual)
Legacy Sponsor – $2,000
All Leadership Sponsor benefits, plus:
- Featured in an ALAS social media post (cross-posted to Ashland University’s main channels)
- Opportunity to give your 5-minute presentation during the evening festivities (limited availability, but maximum engagement)
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 or submit the ALAS sponsorship form.
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?