Description: Iowa Safe Schools is proud to host the Aspire to Inspire ERG Conference as part of our ongoing mission to support LGBTQ youth across Iowa. Every year, young people ask us how they can identify workplaces that will not only welcome them, but invest in their growth, safety, and long-term success. At the same time, Iowa employers regularly turn to us for guidance on how to foster meaningful support for LGBTQ individuals and become places where the next generation of talent can thrive.

This conference serves as a bridge between those two conversations. We believe that Iowa’s companies are strongest when they lead with purpose—creating work environments where all employees feel respected, valued, and equipped to succeed. Through Aspire to Inspire, we help employers and employee leaders alike adopt a hospitality-driven mindset: one that centers people, anticipates needs, and transforms everyday interactions into lasting impact.

Whether it’s through formal ERGs or individual leadership, participants leave this conference with the tools to shape more thoughtful, responsive, and people-first workplaces—places where LGBTQ youth, and all employees, can see a future for themselves in Iowa.

Location: Drake University, Olmsted Center
2875 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311

When: 8am-5pm, Friday February 20, 2026

Parking: Free; Drake University

Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and parking passes will be provided

Adult Registration: $150 (access to all conference workshops, keynote sessions, and welcome mixer on Thursday Feb. 19.)

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Refund Policy:

All ticket sales for the Aspire to Inspire Conference are final, and refunds will not be issued. However, if the original registered attendee is unable to attend, tickets may be transferred to another individual. Any and all transfers must be communicated to and approved by Iowa Safe Schools by February 15, 2026. Iowa Safe Schools will not issue refunds or credits for failure to redeem a discount coupon during the registration or application process. Discounted credential prices are determined by the payment receipt date and are subject to change at any time without notice.

All registrations are reviewed and can be declined for any reason at the sole discretion of Iowa Safe Schools. The safety of all attendees, exhibitors, speakers, and staff are a top priority, and Iowa Safe Schools reserves the right to deny entry into the conference for any reason.

Payment must be received by the date of the Conference. If you are interested in paying with a check or PO, please call our office at 515-381-0588.

Conduct Policy:

At all Iowa Safe Schools Events, we prioritize creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all attendees. While chaperones are not required, students are expected to conduct themselves with maturity and respect throughout the event.

While not an exhaustive list, the following items are strictly prohibited: alcohol, tobacco, smoking devices, vapes (e-cigarettes), lighters or fire implements, non-prescribed controlled substances, helium balloons, glitter, pets (service animals permitted), firearms or weapons.

Failure to provide the information requested of each attendee will result in denial of entry into the Aspire to Inspire Conference. In the event that you would like to send a substitute attendee, this needs to be communicated to Iowa Safe Schools staff as soon as possible.

All registrations are reviewed and can be declined for any reason at the sole discretion of Iowa Safe Schools. Any behavior that is disruptive, disrespectful, or fails to comply with our attendee conduct policy may result in attendees being asked to leave the event. The safety of all attendees, exhibitors, speakers, and staff are a top priority, and Iowa Safe Schools reserves the right to deny entry into the event for any reason.