Description: Iowa Safe Schools hosts the Aspire to Inspire Conference to help students imagine—and prepare for—the kinds of workplaces they want to be part of after graduation.

Each year, college students tell us they’re thinking carefully about their future: Where will I feel welcomed? Where will I be supported to grow? Which employers actually invest in their people? At the same time, Iowa employers are asking how to attract and retain the next generation of talent in meaningful, authentic ways.

Aspire to Inspire brings those conversations together.

This year’s conference focuses on hospitality as a leadership mindset—not just in service roles, but across all industries. Hospitality is about how organizations show up for people: how they welcome new voices, support growth, respond to challenges, and create environments where individuals feel they belong. Through keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking, students will explore how people-centered workplaces are built—and why they matter.

Whether you’re preparing to enter the workforce, exploring leadership opportunities, or simply curious about how values and culture show up at work, Aspire to Inspire offers insight, connection, and real-world perspective. You’ll leave with a clearer sense of what to look for in future employers—and how you can help shape workplaces where people, including LGBTQ individuals, can build meaningful careers 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

Student Registration: $15 (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.