Association for Communication Excellence

06/05/2026

Hi, ACE colleagues! I’m sharing a personal note to encourage you to think creatively about silent auction donations this year — especially non-tangible items such as virtual classes, professional services, coaching, vacation rentals or other experiences.

For example, I’m donating one virtual professional antiques/heirlooms appraisal, thanks to my husband, valued at $50-$100.

What are you — or a friend or family member — good at that ACE members might value? Photography tips? Resume reviews? Art lessons? Coaching? Design help? A weekend stay? Your time and talents could make a great auction item.

And don’t forget: The more you donate, the more likely you are to win the Top Donor Challenge. The donor whose item or items generate the highest total bids will receive a free 2026 ACE Level Up registration.

Prefer to donate something tangible, such as a gift basket or handmade item? This year, you can ship items directly to the conference so you can save room in your luggage to bring home Billings swag and other conference finds.

Details are in the comments.

Looking forward to seeing you in Billings! —Michelle Olgers, FFAR Communications Officer

06/02/2026

05/26/2026

This year’s ACE Community Project will align with our conference theme of Trailheads and Trailblazers by supporting an organization that helps individuals find their path forward.

We’re proud to partner with the Human Resource Development Council and invite attendees to purchase and pack a pair of new socks to bring with you to the conference. Socks are one of the most requested items for individuals experiencing housing insecurity, yet they are often the least donated.

This small act can make a big difference—providing comfort, dignity, and care to those navigating challenging circumstances, and truly reflecting the spirit of trailblazers helping others along the way.

Thank you for helping us make an impact!

Visit https://aceweb.org/ACE-Conference to learn more.

05/20/2026

Making your final plans for the 2026 Annual Conference?

The Billings Mustangs, an independent baseball team of the Pioneer League (a partner league of Major League Baseball), will host a game on Sunday, June 14 at 1:05pm.

Occurring a full day before the conference begins, this event is an opportunity for those arriving early to attend and socialize! To indicate your interest in attending the game in Billings, fill out the form here: https://lnkd.in/gDq2p2yG

Multiple ticket options are available, including those for small groups.

05/11/2026

Presenting our ACE Retiree-Only Event for the 2026 Annual Conference!

Join your fellow retirees on a short trek to beautiful Red Lodge, Montana!

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the scenery of south-central Montana, learn about local geography and wildlife, and engage with professionals from Montana State University Extension.

This tour will include the opportunity to explore downtown Red Lodge, Montana and enjoy lunch-on-your-own at a local eatery. Attendees will visit with community and regional leaders from the area, including MSU Extension Community Vitality Specialists.

To learn more about the event, or to register for the Annual Conference, visit https://aceweb.org/ACE-Conference

05/04/2026

Don't forget to register for the 2026 Annual Conference!

Early Bird pricing may have ended, but there is still time to ensure your spot at the ACE 2026 Annual Conference at the regular rate before registration closes.

Join us in Billings, Montana, June 14–17, 2026 for a one-of-a-kind conference experience by visiting: https://www.aceweb.org/event-6623384

05/01/2026

ACE is excited to announce the 2026–2027 Leadership Institute cohort!

This talented group of communication professionals from across the country will spend the next year developing leadership competencies, building professional influence, and learning to drive impactful change in their organizations and the broader communications field.

2026–2027 Cohort:

Amy Calabretta — Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives
University of Idaho
Inka Bajandas — Public Affairs Manager
Oregon Forest Resources Institute
Tate Cronin — Marketing and Communications Specialist
University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture
Olivia McClure — Associate Communications Specialist
LSU AgCenter
Allison Vitt — Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications
Colorado State University, Office of Engagement and Extension
Stephanie Perla — Marketing Content Specialist
UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
(non-member)
Amy Muise — Instructional Designer/Webmaster
New Mexico State University
Cyril Ibe, PhD. — Interim Communications Coordinator
Central State University
Lesa Vold — Program Manager & Communications Specialist
Egg Industry Center at Iowa State University
Kirsten Conard — Digital Media Officer
Kansas State University
Matt Browning — Director of Agricultural Research & Extension Communications
West Virginia State University
Jackie Hanson — Extension Associate III (Communications Manager & Publications Editor)
University of Guam
Kim Scotto — Communications Manager
Association of Public and Land-grant Universities
Heleen Sheets — Director of Public Relations
Langston University
Sonya Moore-Davis — Director, Media & Communications
Langston University Sherman Lewis School of Agriculture & Applied Sciences
Vickey D. Williams, PhD — Communications (Media) Specialist
Alcorn State University
Claire Montoya — Director of Communications and Reporting
New Mexico State University Agricultural Experiment Station

Stay tuned as we share highlights of their journey throughout the year.