FEDcon26 Program

Programming content is described below. For an overview of the schedule, see the Schedule at a Glance. More details, including times, will be added once confirmed. 

Pre-Conference Events

 

National Executive Board (NEB) Meeting (Breakfast Served Prior, Lunch Included)
Thursday, August 20, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, August 21, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, August 22, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tentative)

FEDcon26 Pre-Registration for Federation Presidents
Friday, August 21, 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Saturday, August 22, 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM

Federation Presidents Meeting (Breakfast Served Prior, Lunch Included)
Friday, August 21, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday, August 22, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Joint NEB/Federation Presidents Meeting Luncheon
Sunday, August 23, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

NARFE Annual Meeting
Sunday, August 23, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

 

FEDcon26 Program 

Programming content for the official FEDcon26 conference is described below. More details, including times, will be added once confirmed.

 

Registration and Exhibits

FEDcon26 Registration (Desk Open)
Sunday, August 23, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Monday, August 24, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday, August 25, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Exhibit Hall Open
Sunday, August 23, 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Monday, August 24, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday, August 25, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Receptions

Welcome Reception 

Sunday, August 23, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM  

Join your fellow NARFE members at this opening welcome reception, featuring light appetizers and a cash bar.

 

Closing Reception

Tuesday, August 25, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Join your fellow NARFE members at the closing reception to reflect on conference highlights, share your key takeaways, and discuss steps you’ll take to help NARFE thrive now and in the future. Appetizers will be served.

 

General Sessions  

Opening General Session with Keynote Speaker
Monday, August 24, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM 

Presenter: Brett Culp

The conference will kick off with an opening keynote speaker Brett Culp, setting the tone for the conference and energizing you to gain the knowledge necessary to LEARN how to make the most of your benefits, ADVOCATE to protect those earned benefits, and LEAD the organization that defends them into the future. LEARN. ADVOCATE. LEAD.

 

Business Session
Tuesday, August 25, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Presenters: Candidates for National Office; NARFE Bylaws Committee

This bylaws-required business session will provide candidates for election to national office with the opportunity to address conference attendees and allow discussion of proposals to amend the bylaws or standing rules submitted prior to the conference.

Closing General Session with Raffles and Keynote Speaker
Tuesday, August 25, 3:15 PM – 4:30 PM

Presenters: Retired Army Lt. General Russel L. Honoré

The conference will close out with Alzheimer’s and Exhibitor Passport Raffle drawings, and a closing keynote speaker Retired Army Lt. General Russel L. Honoré.

Breakout Sessions
Monday, August 24, 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Monday, August 24. 1:45 PM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday, August 25, 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Tuesday, August 25, 1:45 PM – 3:00 PM

Attendees will choose from one of six breakout session options during the four breakout session timeslots. Session topics are organized by track, described below. Please note that some topics remain tentative, as indicated below, and some speakers are yet to be determined. The time of each session will be decided later.

Advocacy Track 

Learn the latest updates on NARFE’s advocacy efforts, and how you can get more involved at the grassroots level and with NARFE-PAC.

NARFE’s Advocacy Priorities: Where We’ve Been, Where We Are, and Where We’re Going

Presenter: John Hatton, Staff Vice President, Policy and Programs, NARFE

It has been a tumultuous year for the federal community. From “Department of Government Efficiency” led terminations, to the introduction of Schedule Policy/Career and its threat to the merit-based civil service, legislative threats to earned federal retirement and health benefits embedded within early versions of the so-called “One Big, Beautiful Bill” Act, elimination of collective bargaining rights, a record-long 43-day government shutdown, and more; NARFE’s Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs, John Hatton, will cover it all. This session will look back at NARFE’s recent advocacy efforts, updating progress toward goals, assessing the current situation, and looking ahead for what’s in store for the federal community and NARFE’s continued advocacy efforts.

Advocacy is Personal: How to Be A NARFE Advocate Using Your Own Story 

Presenter: Nicole Blackstone, Grassroots & Policy Manager, NARFE

In this presentation by NARFE’s Grassroots and Policy Manager, Nicole Blackstone, attendees will hear about the role grassroots advocacy played in the repeal of WEP/GPO, take a look at NARFE’s Grassroots Toolkit and how it can be employed in their interactions, and learn how to incorporate the most impactful instrument at their disposal into all of their advocacy efforts: their story.

Inside NARFE-PAC: How Advocacy Becomes Action

Presenter: R.J. Thacker, Manager, Political & Legislative Affairs, NARFE

NARFE-PAC plays a critical role in protecting the earned pay and benefits of federal employees and retirees by strengthening relationships with lawmakers and electing federal-employee allies. This session, presented by NARFE’s Manager of Political & Legislative Affairs, R.J. Thacker, provides a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how NARFE-PAC operates, why political action is essential to successful advocacy, and how members and leaders can actively contribute to NARFE’s legislative success. Participants will learn how NARFE-PAC evaluates candidates, raises and disburses funds, and builds influence through both Washington-based and in-district fundraising events. The session will also clarify the important legal and ethical distinctions between political action and advocacy, ensuring attendees understand how to engage effectively and compliantly. Designed for federation leaders, chapter officers, PAC coordinators, and engaged members, this session emphasizes actionable strategies—how to prepare for local fundraisers, make a compelling PAC pitch, and promote sustainable giving options like annuity withholding. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of NARFE-PAC’s impact and concrete steps they can take to strengthen federal advocacy in the current election cycle and beyond.

Active Federal Employee Track

Explore how to take advantage of your federal career before retirement through this track of active employee-catered sessions. Specific topics are yet to be finalized.

Illustrative examples of topics include:

• Career Management Strategy
• Proactive Leadership and Prioritizing What’s Important
• Workplace Rights and Protections

From Service to CEO: Designing a Career That Grows with You 

Presenter: Mika Cross, Professional Coach 

Let’s face it. These days, the traditional career ladder doesn’t work for every stage of a federal career, and it doesn’t have to. This engaging session presented by professional coach Mika Cross invites federal workers at every level, age and stage, to rethink success, challenge common career myths, and reimagine how their experience translates into leadership, influence, and optionality over time. Learn how to Honor your service → Reframe your skills → Activate options, → and Leave with a value-aligned next step. 

Federal Benefits Track  

Discover how to effectively navigate your federal retirement with sessions designed for both current employees, those just entering retirement, and seasoned retirees. Find out what questions you need to ask, and what steps to take in order to maximize your retirement benefits. Specific topics have yet to be finalized.

Illustrative examples of topics include:

• Medicare & FEHB/PSHB 
• Things You Can Change After Retirement
• Estate Planning for Feds
• Roth Conversions
• Investing Strategies for Feds
• FERS Retirement Planning
• Be Prepared for Life’s Events (Death, Marriage, Divorce, Family Benefits)
• How Federal Benefits Coordinate with Military/Veterans Benefits

Things You Can Change After Retirement 

Presenters: Tammy Flanagan, Federal Benefits Expert and Mercedes Johnson, Federal Benefits Expert 

After you retire from federal service, you retain the flexibility to adjust to several key benefits and elections, although some changes are restricted to specific timeframes or qualifying life events. For instance, you can update your healthcare plan and coverage type (such as Self, Self Plus One, or Self Plus Family), and in certain situations, you may revise a survivor’s annuity. 

Join NARFE Federal Benefits Experts Tammy Flanagan and Mercedes Johnson for an in-depth discussion on the changes you can make as a federal retiree. Topics include adjusting dental and vision coverage through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), modifying federal and state tax withholdings and allotments, and managing direct deposits for payments. While retirement finalizes many important decisions, Tammy and Mercedes will highlight ongoing opportunities to update your coverage, finances, and personal information to best suit your needs. 

Medicare Coordination with FEHB / PSHB 

Presenter: Tammy Flanagan, Federal Benefits Expert 

If you are a federal employee or retiree enrolled in Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) or Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB), Medicare could help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. While you are still working, FEHB or PSHB typically pay first, with Medicare acting as secondary coverage if you are enrolled. After you retire at age 65 or older, Medicare usually becomes your primary insurance, and FEHB or PSHB help cover costs that Medicare does not, such as copayments, coinsurance, and additional benefits. 

Join NARFE Federal Benefits Expert Tammy Flanagan to explore your coverage options, including FEHB alone, FEHB with Medicare Parts A and B, and FEHB with an enhanced Medicare Advantage plan. She will clarify when it makes sense to coordinate both programs or opt out, help you understand your choices, and compare TRICARE for Life with FEHB and PSHB. 

 

Be Prepared for Life’s Events (Death, Marriage, Divorce, and Dependent Children) 

Presenter: Michele Bollier, Federal Benefits Expert 

Most don’t want to think about organizing their assets. Preparing what happens after you pass away is ultimately about being ready for life’s unexpected turns while you’re still here. Consider it a practical way to safeguard your loved ones, finances, and wishes, no matter what the future holds. 

NARFE Federal Benefits Institute Expert Michele Bollier will guide you through organizing your assets and putting essential tools in place to ensure your intentions are understood. This involves deciding who receives what, designating decision-makers if you become unable to do so, and reducing confusion, delays, or disputes. Preparation is about having control and providing clarity. You make things easier for those you care about or those who need to know while ensuring your wishes are honored, both during your life and after. 

FERS Retirement Planning 

Presenter: Anthony (Tony) Opat, Federal Benefits Specialist 

Planning for federal retirement early gives your investments more time to grow. Federal employees should pay attention to the three parts of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS): the Basic Benefit Plan, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recommends starting serious planning, like maximizing TSP contributions, at least five years before you retire, especially to meet insurance coverage rules. Good planning can help you achieve a stable pension, strong Social Security benefits, and growth and flexibility in your TSP. 

NARFE Federal Benefits Specialist Tony Opat can guide you through important planning steps to help you save more and get the most out of your FERS benefits. 

Investing Strategies for Feds 

Presenter: Wes Battle, Federal Benefits Expert 

How do professionals determine the best places to invest their money? Many Federal employees never anticipated having to manage investment portfolios. However, with the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) now making up a significant portion of their assets, that responsibility falls to them. In this session, NARFE Federal Benefits Expert Wes Battle, CFP®, ChFEBC℠, AIF®, RICP®, will share the investment management strategies used by professional advisors to balance growth, manage risk, and create reliable income—and how these approaches specifically apply to the TSP, including the plan’s unique limitations and new Roth conversion rules for non-Roth eligible funds. Gain clearer insight into both the opportunities and challenges that shape your long-term retirement income security and discover how to use your TSP as a powerful tool for your financial future. 

How Federal Civilian Benefits Coordinate with Veterans Benefits 

Presenter: Kevin Kelley, Federal Benefits Expert 

Many of our members have served their country both in the military and civil service. There are many different areas where civilians and veterans benefit from dovetail, especially in healthcare and retirement.  Understanding how the combination of military and civilian service can work to your benefit is key to experiencing all the benefits your dual service has afforded you. 

Join NARFE Federal Benefits Institute Expert Kevin Kelley as he explains how federal employees with military service can get the most from their benefits by understanding their eligibility requirements and how these various benefits work together. 

Lifestyle Track 

Focus on your personal life with a purpose as you listen to experts navigate concerns and interests that arise as you progress through the stages of life in this lifestyle-centered track. Specific topics are yet to be finalized.

Illustrative examples of topics include:

• How to Declutter Your Life and Reduce Stress
• Managing Medicine and Chronic Disease with Nutrition and Exercise
• Learning the 7 Pillars of Wellness

NARFE Leadership Track 

Enhance and expand skills through targeted training designed to benefit both NARFE chapters, federations, and their members during these leadership track sessions. Session topics are subject to confirmation, and additional topics may be included.

Best Practices for Chapter/Federation

Presenter: Jenn Rafael, Senior Director of Technology & Communications, NARFE, and Matt Sanderson, Senior Content Manager, NARFE

Join Jenn Rafael and Matt Sanderson for a dynamic discussion on effective strategies to engage chapter and federation members, and to inform and cultivate federal employees in your area who may not yet be familiar with NARFE. Discover ways to maximize your NARFE website, leverage social media, connect through the FEDHub community, and utilize both email and traditional mail to broaden your reach and impact.

Understanding the AMS and Zoom platforms as a Chapter/Federation

Presenter: NARFE CAB

Discover how to seamlessly navigate the AMS and Zoom platforms with NARFE’s Configuration Advisory Board (CAB), and gain the skills to efficiently manage your memberships, meetings, and essential tasks.

Illustrative examples of other topics include:

• Membership Recruitment
• Chapter Officer 101
• Federation Officer 101
• Leadership Succession Planning 

Navigate, Automate, Accelerate: Get the Most from AMS and Digital Tools 

Presenters: Dorothy Creswell, Region 06, Joanne Smith, Region 01, Will Cooper, Region 05, and Carol Main, Region 07 

Join Configuration Advisory Board (CAB) Representatives Joanne Smith (Region 01), William “Will” Cooper (Region 05), Dorothy Creswell (Region 06), and Carol Main (Region 07) as they present technology tools and tips to help you engage current members and attract new ones. Adopting a proactive mindset and developing your technology skills will support your efforts to achieve NARFE goals. 

Lead, Learn, and Grow: Chapter Officers 101 – Part 1 

Presenters: Tim Gartner, OH Federation President, Calvin Stevens, Past Chapter President 0380, and Lynn Harper, Region III VP and NEB Member 

This session will introduce new and current Chapter Officers to their key responsibilities within NARFE. We will provide a brief overview of required officer roles and review essential forms and manuals to support your success. A Q&A session will follow, so bring your questions. *Educational brochures on officer roles will be provided. 

Lead, Learn, and Grow: Chapter Officers 101 – Part 2 

Presenters: Tim Gartner, OH Federation President, Calvin Stevens, Past Chapter President 0380, and Lynn Harper, Region III VP and NEB Member 

Explore online tools for chapter officers to track membership status, dues, potential members, and more. This session is designed to introduce new and current Chapter Officers to the tools available online to assist them in performing their duties. You will see how to update your chapter’s information and members’ data. We will explore basic online tools that chapter officers can use to assist with chapter meetings. Other downloadable files useful to chapter officers are the membership roster, dues income, “potential members,” and more. If time permits, a Q&A session will follow. 

Additional Events

Morning Gentle Yoga 

Monday, August 24, 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Location TBD
Join fellow NARFE members for morning gentle yoga to focus your mind and strengthen your body. 

Regional Caucuses 

Monday, August 24, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Set 1)
Monday, August 24, 4:45 PM – 5:45 PM (Set 2)

The regional caucuses will provide an opportunity for attendees to hear from candidates for regional vice-president, and to allow a regional-based discussion on NARFE issues.

Symposia
Monday, August 24, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Set 1)
Monday, August 24, 4:45 PM – 5:45 PM (Set 2)

The symposia, provided by NARFE’s partners, will offer content for attendees who do not plan to attend the regional caucuses and when their regional caucus is not occurring. Content will be confirmed and finalized at a later date.

Optional, Offsite Evening Event

Evening of Monday, August 24

Location TBD

NARFE-PAC Breakfast
Tuesday, August 25, 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

Presenter: TBD

Ticket Required. Qualifying PAC contributors will be eligible to attend this breakfast as a thank you for their support. Speaker TBD.

Optional, Offsite Evening Event
Evening of Tuesday, August 24

Location TBD

Optional, Offsite Baseball Game Evening Event  

Evening of Tuesday, August 25
Location: Victory Field
Join NARFE for a baseball game! Come watch the hometown favorites Indianapolis Indians take on the Columbus Clippers on Tuesday, August 25 at 6:35 p.m. ET at Victory Field. You may request your complimentary tickets here: https://fedcon.narfe.org/baseball/