What You Missed at NACA Savannah

Nothing refills my bucket quite like reconnecting in person with friends, colleagues and associates from across the country. This past weekend, NACA Savannah turned the Georgia coast into a hub of good vibes, overflowing energy, and meaningful connection. (Also, there was a river ferry! Did I mention the river ferry? There was a ferry!)

If you weren’t able to make it, here’s a quick recap of what went down and what to keep your eyes on next.

Pre-Conference at SCAD

Savannah started strong with a Thursday afternoon pre-conference at the SCAD Museum of Art. I know I wasn’t the only one who gasped out loud when we walked into the André Leon Talley: Style Is Forever tribute, showcasing so many of Talley’s iconic outfits and bespoke capes. It was an incredible afternoon that got us all into the NACA spirit and ready for our weekend together.

More Socials, More Networking

One of the big shifts this year was a deliberate push toward expanded social and networking experiences. The conference team built in dedicated spaces and time for informal connection. After all, the best ideas often spark when you’re chatting on the Savannah Conference Center balcony overlooking the Savannah River with new staff and associate friends.

Insightful Ed Sessions

The educational lineup offered both tangible takeaways and inspirational programs. It was exciting to see so many incredible tracks for students, including Marketing, Leadership, and the new Fraternity/Sorority Life (FSL) track.

The addition of 30-minute Featured Education sessions was also fantastic. If you’re like me, your attention span can be short, and these quick, focused sessions were a great way to absorb fresh ideas fast.

Showcases and the “People’s Choice” Vote

Savannah’s showcase slate was already strong, but the 2025 twist was the introduction of the People’s Choice Act, an opportunity for attendees to select an act ahead of time. It was awesome to see Kanola Band represent the People’s Choice Showcase, leading a traditional Second Line parade that got the crowd on its feet and dancing.

And of course, I’d be remiss not to mention the Campus Marketplace, where dozens of associates shared their services, ideas, and inspiration with schools from across the region. It’s hard not to get excited when there’s so much going on in the Marketplace.

What’s Next: Hartford and Riverside

If Savannah whetted your appetite or you’re feeling a little bit of FOMO, here’s what’s next and why you don’t want to wait to register.

NACA Hartford — October 16–18, 2025
Connecticut Convention Center
Register here

Hartford will host the next stop in the 2025 conference cycle. Many of Savannah’s innovations carry over, including pre-conference sessions at local museums, the People’s Choice Showcase, immersive networking experiences, and more engaging educational tracks. If your campus is in the Eastern Corridor or if you couldn’t make Savannah, Hartford is your next best opportunity to plug in.

NACA Riverside — November 20–22, 2025
Riverside Convention Center
Register here

After hanging out on the East Coast, we’re heading west. Riverside rounds out the fall conference trio with the same quality pre-conference experiences, networking events, inspiring showcases, and business in the Marketplace. There is also a Riverside Info Session on October 20 (2–3 p.m. PDT) to help attendees prepare and navigate conference logistics.

See You Soon

I hope this recap inspires you to join one of our upcoming in-person events. NACA is better when you’re there to contribute, share your knowledge, and help build campus communities where everyone belongs! See you soon!