What is INSPIRE?
INSPIRE 2026 is a two-day, high-impact conference created for Catholic school and parish leaders who are ready to strengthen mission and drive growth- together.
Bold ideas. Faith-filled leadership. Proven practices- brought to life by a nationally recognized and locally rooted lineup, all designed to strengthen mission and advance Operational Vitality (NSBECS Domain 4).
Attendees will be energized by compelling keynotes, immersed in engaging breakout sessions, and uplifted by the spirit of collaboration and community that defines this powerful experience.
Registration opens May 1st for the Archdiocese of Seattle, and May 8th for those joining us from beyond the Archdiocese, which we absolutely love!
Breakout Session Topics
School Track
Continuous Enrollment, Volunteer Engagement, Auctions, Marketing Mission, Latino Outreach & Enrollment, Office Efficiency, Tuition Assistance Best Practices, Effective Fundraising, How to Handle Difficult Conversations, What is your Data Telling You?, AI in Marketing & Communications, Video Storytelling, School Branding & Value Propositions, The ‘sales” cycle, The Art of Donor Relationships, School Growth, Optimizing Communications, Grant Writing, Planned Giving, School Culture & Strategy, Managing the Expectations of Others, Building a Community of Belonging, Engaging and Effective Admissions Events, The Importance of a Welcoming Front Office- the Art of Hospitality, Alternative sources of Revenue, Social Media Best Practices
Early Learning Track (Archdiocese of Seattle participants only) AUGUST 6TH ONLY
Parish Track (Archdiocese of Seattle participants only) Topics: Stewardship- Principals of Engagement, #iGiveCatholic, Non-Profit IRS Guidelines, ParishStaq
We have built something special. INSPIRE 2026 will be a transformative experience designed to ignite your passion, fuel your growth, and elevate your school and parish potential. And this year, we’re bringing youth ministry into the mix, making it even stronger.
Get Ready to Be INSPIRED!
The conversations, ideas, and connections are almost here! Get a head start on planning your INSPIRE experience by exploring our program preview.
Download the Excel preview HERE. You’ll find three tabs at the bottom of the workbook:
📅 Schedule
Browse session times, locations, breakout titles, and presenter names.
💡 Session Descriptions
Discover what each session is all about and find the ones that are right for you.
🎤 Presenter Bios
Meet the outstanding presenters who will be sharing their expertise, experiences, and inspiration.
Our beautifully designed conference program will be posted here soon. You’ll also receive a printed copy when you check in, making it easy to navigate the conference and personalize your INSPIRE journey.
We can’t wait to welcome you to two days of learning, collaboration, and inspiration!
Who’s Invited?
INSPIRE welcomes Catholic school leaders and staff working in admissions, marketing, communications, development, finance, and operations both within and beyond the Archdiocese of Seattle.
We also extend a warm invitation to parish staff, early learning teams, and new this year, youth ministry leaders, as we intentionally partner to bring these communities together. A dedicated track will support your unique mission and create space for deeper collaboration across parish and school life.
Last year, we welcomed participants from across the U.S. and we can’t wait to grow that community even more.
Event Details
Dates: Wednesday & Thursday, August 5-6, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Light breakfast and lunch provided each day)
Location: Seattle University
901 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Cost:
Free for all Archdiocese of Seattle school & parish staff
$300 for Catholic school staff outside the Archdiocese (optional on-campus housing available)
Overnight Accommodations
Overnight Accommodations at Seattle University
Experience the charm of campus life again by staying in one of Seattle University’s comfortable residence halls!
- Enjoy a clean, private room with fresh linens, blankets, pillows, towels, and washcloths provided
- Free high-speed internet for all guests
- Shared restrooms conveniently located on each floor
- A unique chance to re-live your college days—without the exams!
Cost:
Free for staff within the Archdiocese of Seattle
$110 per night for Catholic school staff outside the Archdiocese
Important Note About Housing Cancellations
If you reserve a room but your plans change, you must cancel by July 1 to avoid charges.
Please note that we are charged for every room reserved, whether or not it is used.
The final day to cancel without penalty is July 1, 2026.
Thank you for helping us steward resources wisely!
