Name: Innovator of the Year Recognition & Award
Start: 2026-06-09T14:30:00-0400
End: 2026-06-09T15:30:00-0400

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Innovator of the Year Recognition & Award

LIMITED

Tuesday June 9, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT

Mission Health / A-B Tech Conference Center

Limited Capacity seats available

Innovator of the Year Recognition & Award

Join us for one of the most meaningful and heartfelt moments of the conference as we celebrate the extraordinary educators who are shaping the future of Western North Carolina.
This annual recognition is more than an award; it is a tribute to impact, dedication, and the power of educator voice.

Together, we will honor nominees from across the region whose work exemplifies innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to students and communities.
Throughout this special convening, you will hear powerful reflections from those who know and value these educators best.

All nominees will be recognized for their contributions, culminating in the announcement of the 2026 Innovator of the Year—a distinguished honor that celebrates excellence in practice and the lasting impact of educational leadership.
Rooted in this year’s theme, The Power of Our Stories, this experience reminds us that behind every innovative practice is a person whose story inspires change.

Speakers

Carlos Ojeda, Jr.

Founder, CoolSpeak

Carlos Ojeda Jr. has been called one of the most dynamic speakers in America today.He is a youth development expert with over twenty-six years of experience inspiring countless students, parents, and education professionals across the country.Carlos was a university administrator... Read More →

Rachel Nave-Lewis

Assistant Director of Curriculum & Instructional Design, Appalachian State University | Office of Rural Promise

Corinne Smith

Deputy Director, College Access Partnerships, Appalachian State College Access Partnerships

Tuesday June 9, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Mission Health / A-B Tech Conference Center 16 Fernihurst Dr, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Main Convening, Mattering & Belonging

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Academic Innovation Conference 2026

Carlos Ojeda, Jr.

Rachel Nave-Lewis

Corinne Smith

Attendees (40)

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Success you have shared X tickets.

Academic Innovation Conference 2026

Carlos Ojeda, Jr.

Rachel Nave-Lewis

Corinne Smith

Attendees (40)

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