2026 NCACCHRP Annual Conference Recap

HR Superheroes: Making a Difference, One Employee at a Time!

October 6–8, 2026 | The Laureate Center | Kannapolis, North Carolina

What happens when HR superheroes from across North Carolina's community colleges unite? Three incredible days of learning, laughter, networking, and inspiration!

The North Carolina Association of Community College Human Resources Professionals (NCACCHRP) brought together HR professionals from across the state for an unforgettable 2026 Annual Conference in Kannapolis, North Carolina.

This year's superhero-inspired conference celebrated the everyday heroes who work behind the scenes to recruit talent, support employees, develop leaders, strengthen workplace culture, and help our community colleges thrive.

From engaging presentations and meaningful conversations to opportunities to reconnect with colleagues, the conference reminded us that HR professionals don't need capes to make a difference!

Powerful Presentations. Meaningful Conversations. Real-World Solutions.

Our outstanding speakers shared their knowledge, experiences, and practical strategies to help HR professionals navigate today's evolving higher education workplace.

2026 Featured Speakers

Reid Beaver & Dr. Shantell Strickland-Davis — Coaching for Growth: Reimagining Performance Conversations Through IDPs

Dr. Timogi Jackson — From Cubicle to Community - The True Reach of Employee Burnout

Scott Ottman and  Dr. Rachel Desmarais — ERP Updates and Discussion

Jonnell Carpenter and Delany Davis— System Office Legal Updates

LeTonya D. Shaw — Leading Through Workforce Change: What HR Must Do Before, During, and After a Reduction

Gerard Clodomir and Andreas Mosby — From HR Decision to the Courtroom: The Lifecycle of an Employment Claim

Kelly Carpenter — The Quiet Crisis: Rebuilding Connection in a Lonely Organization

Marcella Thompson and Amanda Bryant — HR Roundtable Discussions

Casey Bowden — Taking Care of Yourself & Employees: Practical Ways HR Leaders and Reduce Stress & Reduce Compassion Fatigue

Ann Everett — The Human Side of Work - The Power of Supporting Employee Mental Health

Kayla Leonard — The Retention & Disposition Schedule for Colleges in the Community College System

Dr. Bob Shackleford — Managing Stress & Burnout in the Workplace

Dr. Lane Freeman — AI at Work: A Practical Guide for Community College HR Professionals

Thank you to every presenter who shared their expertise, inspired new ideas, and helped make this year's conference a success!