Join us for our 3-day conference and enhance your internal communication strategies with actionable insights and best practices!
Pre-Conference Workshops: Tuesday, January 27
General Sessions: Wednesday, January 28
Thursday, January 29
Register by Friday, December 26, 2025 & save $400!
Earn 11.75 PDC Credits towards SHRM
The #1 Top-Rated Conference for Internal Communications!
In this 3-Day Conference, you will have the opportunity to catch up with your peers, learn about the challenges they’re facing—and the tactics they’re using to overcome them.
Connect with industry peers to exchange insights, share success stories, and explore the latest best practices in strategic internal communications!
Gain insights from industry experts, exchange ideas with peers, and enhance your skills to drive impactful communication within your organization, including:
Discover innovative internal communication strategies that align employees with business goals and strengthen organizational culture
Learn crisis and change communication techniques to maintain transparency, trust, and confidence during periods of disruption
Explore proven methods to boost employee engagement, foster belonging, and drive retention through authentic communication
Master the art of strategic storytelling to make leadership messages more relatable, human, and impactful across all levels of the organization
Leverage AI-powered tools and data analytics to personalize communication, measure message effectiveness, and optimize strategy in real time
Strengthen executive communication and leadership alignment to inspire, motivate, and connect with employees in meaningful ways
Hear what past attendees had to say:
Setting the bar high, great inspiration and great takeaways
Past Event Attendee
I really enjoyed meeting the people in my workshop group. We had a lot of real-world experiences to share.
Past Event Attendee
Super applicable topics and takeaways that can be implemented right away
Past Event Attendee
Benefits Of The 3-Day Pass
Maximize your time by signing up for our Pre-Conference Workshops on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
Interactive Pre-Conference Workshops are led by thought leaders and experts on internal communications. Each small group session will prepare you for the conference the following day, provide you with practical answers to questions that keep you up at night, and inspire you to creatively tackle your most pressing internal communications challenges.
Who Should Attend
This conference is designed especially for senior-level professionals and their teams responsible for shaping and executing on their organization’s communications strategy for both external and internal audiences:
Internal communications
Employee communications
Media relations
Corporate communications
Employee engagement
Global communications
Public relations
Public affairs
Human resources
Corporate affairs
Social media
Change management
Corporate intranets
Digital communications
Benefits Of Attending ALI’s Strategic Internal Communications Conference:
Access to internal communication practitioners from leading organizations with real examples and proven strategies through real-world case studies and intimate, interactive workshops
Networking list for attendees to continue the conversation after the conference
Interactive sessions allowing you to work with your strategic internal communications peers
Certificate of attendance for CEUs
Opportunity to meet with peers face-to-face
Guaranteed extensive, how-to instruction about elevating strategic internal communications that you can use immediately
Opportunity to have your most pressing questions on strategic internal communications answered in real-time
Past Speaker Organizations Include:
Need Leadership Approval?
Attending a conference, workshop, training, or seminar is the perfect way to gain new knowledge, meet like-minded professionals, expand your skillset, and expose yourself to new perspectives in your field. However, while you may see the benefits of attending an event, getting the “thumbs up” from management may take a bit of convincing.
As AI transforms internal communications, how can organizations ensure that technology enhances—rather than replaces—human connection? This workshop will provide a strategic framework for integrating AI into internal communications while keeping employees engaged and informed.
Attendees will learn:
A rapid approach to developing AI-powered communication strategies and plans
How to collaborate with AI while maintaining a human-centric approach
Techniques for visualizing complex AI-driven communication workflows
New ways to use AI to engage and support remote and hybrid teams
10:45 am - 10:55 am
Morning Refreshments & Networking Break
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and other refreshments as you network with your peers as we switch over to the next workshop.
10:55 am - 12:20 pm
Workshop B: The Re-Education of DEI for Communicators
Kim Clark, Conscious Communications Consultant, Change, Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Coach | Kim Clark Communications, Inc
The DEI acronym has been politicized, scrutinized, and misunderstood — leaving communicators caught in the crossfire. After a year of chaos and confusion, it’s time to hit reset. Whether your organization has gone quiet, pulled back, or stayed steady in its DEI commitment, this is your opportunity to shape what comes next.
Join Kim Clark for an interactive, no-fluff workshop designed to re-educate and re-empower communicators to lead the next evolution of DEI storytelling — one rooted in authenticity, inclusion, and cultural fluency.
Together, we’ll brainstorm, collaborate, and build messaging that makes DEI real again — in the words, tone, and experiences that truly connect with your employees.
You’ll walk away with:
A deeper, future-ready understanding of DEI as a reflection of your organization’s values and culture
Practical techniques to talk about DEI in ways that resonate with employees and keep you in legal compliance
The confidence and tools to co-create the next chapter of your organization’s DEI narrative — one that inspires, not divides
If you’re ready to move from confusion to clarity — and from fear to fearless communication — this is the workshop you can’t afford to miss.
12:20 pm - 2:20 pm
Lunch On Your Own, But Not Alone—Reservations Are Booked!
Reservations have been made at a number of local restaurants. Don't miss this opportunity to have lunch with your peers at a local San Francisco hot spot! **Dutch treat – we’ll ask for separate checks.
2:20 pm - 3:35 pm
Workshop C: From Chaos to Clarity: Leading Through Change
Amanda Atkins, Principal | Atkins HQ Leadership Advisory
In moments of disruption—whether a merger, restructuring, or leadership transition—communication isn’t just important, it’s business-critical. The right message can stabilize teams and build momentum; the wrong one can erode trust and derail progress. In this scenario-based workshop, you’ll step into the role of an internal communications leader navigating high-pressure change. Through hands-on simulations, you’ll practice crafting messages that not only inform but inspire confidence and alignment.
3:35 pm - 3:45 pm
Afternoon Refreshments & Stretch Break
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and other refreshments as you network with your peers as we switch over to the next workshop.
3:45 pm - 5:00 pm
Workshop D: Innovating Channels: Building a Multi-Channel Employee Communication Playbook
Lauren Stephens, Executive Director of Internal Strategic Communications | MGM Resorts International
Crystal McNeal, Executive Director of Social Impact & Sustainability Communications and Internal Brand | MGM Resorts International
This interactive workshop equips attendees with the knowledge and tools to create effective multi-channel communication strategies. Through presentations, real-world examples, and hands-on activities, participants will explore the strengths and trends of channels like email, intranet, mobile, video, and AI tools. They’ll learn why single-channel approaches often fall short, how to map strategies tailored to audience segments, and ways to integrate innovative tools for greater engagement. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with a draft multi-channel strategy, actionable insights from peer feedback, and clear next steps to enhance their organization’s internal communications.
5:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Close Of Workshops
5:05 pm - 6:00 pm
Networking Reception For Workshop Attendees, Speakers & Sponsors @ Venue Bar
Cheers to a great day full of content! Join us in the hotel lobby main bar for complimentary drinks and networking with your peers.
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Dinner With A Group—Reservations Have Been Made To Take In The Sights Of San Francisco
First time in San Francisco? Want to get out of the hotel? Meet your peers in the lobby at 6:00. You'll be heading out to dinner at a local hot spot as you take in the sights of the city.
Day 1: General Sessions - 01/28/2026
8:30 am - 9:00 am
Registration: Badges, Breakfast, & Beverages
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and continental breakfast as you meet your fellow attendees. Sign-in, pick up your materials and enjoy a continental breakfast before we start the day. Be sure to stop by and visit your sponsors!
Welcome to the 13th Annual Strategic Internal Communications Conference.
In this fast-paced forum, you'll get to know your fellow peers, their biggest internal communications challenges, and a few fun facts.
9:30 am - 10:05 am
Storytelling as Strategy: Lessons from One Good Thing
Kim Jarboe LaPean, Director of Communications & Engagement | University of California, San Francisco
How can a simple staff story spark cross-department connection, engagement, and even win awards? One Good Thing began as a Lean project at the University of California, San Francisco. It evolved into a popular feature that celebrates staff voices and spreads good news across the enterprise. With more than 200 stories in five years, it showcases a successful model for using storytelling as a strategic tool to strengthen culture, build community, and prove that positivity has a measurable impact. Get the scoop on what didn't go so well and join in a robust Q&A on how peers are turning “good news” into great strategy.
10:05 am - 10:40 am
Mastering Communication in Mergers & Acquisitions
Alice Ferreira, Corporate Communications | Webster Bank
With high visibility mergers and acquisitions, success isn’t just defined by financial models, legal frameworks, or operational integration—it hinges on communication. Whether you're merging global giants or acquiring a high-growth startup, good communications ensure seamless synergy and avoid cultural chaos.
You’ll walk away with a framework to:
Create communication plans aligned with deal objectives.
Identify and engage key audiences at every step.
Develop a repeatable communication playbook so you can tailor for your organization
10:40 am - 11:10 am
Morning Refreshments, Networking Break + Visit Your Sponsors
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and other refreshments as you network with your peers.
Be sure to stop by and visit your sponsors and be sure to fill out your evaluation forms.
11:10 am - 11:45 am
Measuring What Matters: Proving the ROI of Internal Communications
Demonstrating metrics dashboards, KPIs, and how data informed strategy
11:45 am - 12:20 pm
Scaling Mentorship and Learning in a Remote-First World
Darrel Ng, Vice President, Communicationse and Marketing | Health Net
Discover how one large company has successfully fostered continuous learning and mentorship across a remote-first workforce—without relying on traditional in-person interactions. Attendees will gain practical strategies for building skills traditionally gained in mentor-mentee relationships, learn tools and techniques to create a culture of shared knowledge, and explore scalable approaches to professional development that keep employees engaged and growing—no matter where they’re located.
12:20 pm - 2:15 pm
Lunch On Your Own, But Not Alone—Reservations Are Booked!
Reservations have been made at a number of local restaurants. Don't miss this opportunity to have lunch with your peers at a local San Francisco hot spot!
**Everyone is financially responsible for their own lunch.
2:15 pm - 2:50 pm
Interactive Group Breakout: Share & Solve – IC Roundtable
Crisis Communication in Action: Lessons Learned from Real-Time Response
Case study of how a company handled a crisis and maintained employee trust.
3:25 pm - 4:05 pm
Sponsor Showcases: Tools You’ll Want in Your Toolkit
Take advantage of this interactive break to connect with our sponsors and experience their products and services firsthand. Each sponsor will host live demos at their table—giving you the chance to explore innovative solutions, ask questions, and find the tools that best support your work.
4:05 pm - 4:45 pm
Panel: The Evolving Role of Internal Communications in Today’s Workplace
Ben Matthews, Senior Director of Employee Communications | NVIDIA
Together we will recap yesterday's top takeaways and set the stage for this final day of learning.
9:30 am - 10:05 am
Leveraging Technology: How AI & Digital Tools Are Transforming Employee Communications
Showcasing platforms and AI applications that boosted engagement and efficiency.
10:05 am - 10:40 am
Trust in the Making: Raising Employee Confidence Through Listening & Communication
Gabriel Galdamez, Strategic Communications Consultant | Hola Gabriel
Lydia Ivy, Director, Internal Communications | College Track
Trust isn’t built overnight—especially when starting from a low baseline. How do you build an internal communication function that strengthens credibility, fosters transparency, and earns employee confidence? We’ll share employee listening methods and communication strategies we’ve been implementing to shift skepticism into trust.
10:40 am - 11:10 am
Morning Refreshments, Networking Break + Visit Your Sponsors
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and other refreshments as you network with your peers.
Be sure to stop by and visit your sponsors and be sure to fill out your evaluation forms.
11:10 am - 11:45 am
Interactive Group Breakout: Real Talk – What’s Working, What’s Not
The Hyatt Regency San Francisco sits right on the Embarcadero waterfront, offering sweeping views of the Bay and the Bay Bridge.
The Ferry Building Marketplace is just a short walk away, and the California Street cable car line is only two minutes on foot, taking you directly to Chinatown and Nob Hill.
Union Square, the Exploratorium, Pier 39, and the shops and restaurants of the Financial District are also within easy reach.
Make your reservation TODAY at our reduced group room rate of $349. Please call the hotel and mention you are attending the “13th Annual Strategic Internal Communications – West” conference. Or book online with the following link:
Attending a conference, workshop, training, or seminar is the perfect way to gain new knowledge, meet like-minded professionals, expand your skillset, and expose yourself to new perspectives in your field. However, while you may see the benefits of attending an event, getting the “thumbs up” from management may take a bit of convincing. ALI is here to help. Click here to download a Justification template.
Additional Ways To Save:
Ways To Save:
Check out the different ways to save below! Contact us at 773-695-9400 or connect@aliconferences.com to receive your promotion code.
Team Discounts:
Attend this training with colleagues and save! Registering with a team can offer several benefits, including:
Team of 2: Save $200 each
Team of 3: Save $300 each
Team of 4: Register for 3 and get the 4th registration free
Nonprofit/Government Discount:
Nonprofit/government employees are eligible for a $200 discount with promotion code.
Alumni Rate:
Past ALI conference attendees eligible for a $200 discount with promotion code.
Vendor Rates:
Non-sponsoring vendors are required to pay a registration fee for the 2-day conference of $4,999
All extra savings may be combined with early bird rates. Only 1 coupon code is allowed per registration. Coupon codes and discounts must be applied at the time of the original registration. No adjustments can be made after the original registration.
Terms & Conditions Of Your Registration:
PAYMENT
Payment is due two weeks prior to the event. If payment has not been received two weeks before the event, a credit-card hold, training form, or purchase order will be taken to ensure your space.
CANCELLATION POLICY
You may make substitutions at any time; please notify us as soon as possible. If you cancel (in writing) more than two weeks prior to the conference a refund will be provided less a $399 administration fee. Registered delegates who do not attend or who cancel two weeks prior to the conference or less will be issued a credit memo. Credit memos will be valid for one year from date of issuance and can be used by anyone in your organization.
PROGRAM CHANGES
Advanced Learning Institute, Inc. reserves the right to make changes in programs and speakers, or to cancel programs if enrollment criteria are not met or when conditions beyond its control prevail. Every effort will be made to contact each enrollee if a program is canceled. If a program is not held for any reason, A.L.I.’s liability is limited to the refund of the program fee only.
Testimonials
"You all really pulled together an impressive group of folks. I loved speaking with the Salesforce and Amazon communication teams. I always feel that I take more than I give at these meetings, thank you for making it time well spent."—Vice President, Organizational Communications, American Cancer Society
"This is the conference where innovators of our industry will convene & shape the blueprint for the modern communications function in the age of digital. This is the conference for you if you dare to challenge the status quo."—Senior Vice President, Corporate & Digital Communications Group, Mastercard
"I loved the conference! I think the line-up was terrific and representative of all sizes of businesses which I think makes it useful for everyone and helps broaden the talking points & open up different scenarios on the overarching topic."—Manager, Corporate Communications, Scripps Network Interactive
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