Self-Advocate Summit 2026
Welcome to the 2026 Self-Advocate Summit!
This year’s theme, “A World of Opportunities – Discover Endless Possibilities,” celebrates the voices, strengths, leadership, and experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities while bringing together individuals and organizations committed to creating more inclusive communities.
Whether you are attending to learn, share your experiences, discover resources, build professional relationships, or connect with others who are passionate about disability inclusion, we look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring day of education, networking, and community.
Why Attend?
- Learn from engaging educational presentations
- Hear directly from self-advocates and community leaders
- Connect with individuals, families, providers, educators, and community organizations
- Discover statewide programs, services, and resources
- Visit vendor and exhibitor booths
- Build meaningful personal and professional relationships
- Celebrate leadership, inclusion, accessibility, and self-advocacy
Conference Information
Date: Friday, September 18, 2026Location: Crowne Plaza Albuquerque
1901 University Blvd NE
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Conference: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
City: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Conference Theme: A World of Opportunities – Discover Endless Possibilities
Welcome Reception & Early Check-In
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Time: Beginning at 5:00pm
The Self-advocate Summit is a statewide conference featuring educational breakout sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, community resources, and opportunities to learn from one another.
Registration
Registration for the 2026 Self-Advocate Summit is now open.
Whether you are a self-advocate, family member, provider, educator, student, government representative, community partner, or professional, we invite you to join us for this exciting statewide event.
Hotel Information
The conference will be held at:
Crowne Plaza Albuquerque
1901 University Blvd NE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102
Additional information regarding hotel accommodations, parking, and accessibility will be posted as it becomes available.
Visit the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque website for information about the hotel, amenities, and accommodations.
Conference Room Block
A discounted group rate has been reserved for Self-Advocate Summit attendees at the Crowne Plaza Albuquerque.
Reservations: To receive the discounted group rate, attendees should call 844-356-6178 and reference "Arc Summit 2026" when making their reservation.
Please note: Attendees requesting lodging reimbursement through the stipend program must reserve their room using the Arc Summit 2026 room block to be eligible for reimbursement.
Financial Assistance (Stipends)
Financial assistance for lodging and travel may be available to eligible attendees who would otherwise be unable to attend the Self-Advocate Summit.
You may be eligible if you:
- Live more than 50 miles from Albuquerque, and
- Demonstrate financial hardship.
If you believe you qualify, please complete the Self-Advocate Summit Stipend Application.
Schedule
Full Conference Schedule Coming Soon!
Presentation proposals are currently being finalized. The complete conference agenda, breakout sessions, and speaker information will be available soon.
Planned topics areas include:
- Employment
- Independent Living
- Self-Advocacy
- Relationships
- Physical Health & Wellness
- Mental Health & Well-Being
- Community Resources
- Benefits & Services
- Leadership Development
Sponsorship
Support New Mexico’s Statewide Self-Advocate Summit by becoming a conference sponsor.
Sponsors help create an accessible and engaging conference experience while demonstrating their commitment to disability inclusion, community partnership, and leadership across New Mexico.
Sponsorship Levels
Accessibility
The Arc of New Mexico is committed to creating an accessible, welcoming, and inclusive conference experience for everyone.
Reasonable accommodations may include:
- American Sign Language (ASL) Interpretation
- Spanish Interpretation
- Accessible Meeting Spaces
- Mobility Accommodations
- Assistive Listening Devices
- Additional accommodations upon request
Please indicate any accommodation requests during registration so we can best support your participation.