RICHMOND, VA — The 2nd Annual Childcare & Family Legacy Conference and Awards Ceremony will bring together parents, childcare professionals, educators, business owners, and community leaders for two days of education, connection, and celebration. The event will take place September 25–26, 2026, at 3030 The Venue, located at 8257 Hull Street Road in Richmond, Virginia.
Founded and hosted by Dr. DeShonda Jennings, the conference was created to honor the people who play an important role in the growth and development of children. As a mother of seven and a passionate advocate for children and families, Dr. Jennings understands the value of strong partnerships between parents, educators, and childcare professionals.
Through this annual event, Dr. Jennings is building a community where childcare leaders and families can receive practical resources, form meaningful connections, and be recognized for the work they do every day.
This year’s conference will feature an impressive group of keynote speakers, panelists, and special guests who will share their knowledge and experiences with attendees.
The featured keynote speakers include:
- Taurea Vision Avant
- Yolanda T. Richey
- Inga Nykole
- Lajoyce Lewis
- Tiffany Johnson
Conference panelists include:
- Toni Brown
- Roseanne Hinch
- Catherine Tellado
- Dr. Tina Ramsay
The event will also recognize Cynthia Williams-Bey as a featured honoree.
Throughout the conference, attendees will participate in sessions focused on topics that directly affect children, families, and childcare businesses. Topics will include building stronger partnerships between parents and professionals, raising resilient children, improving family engagement, understanding financial literacy, developing effective leadership skills, and preparing for future changes in the childcare industry.
The conference begins on Friday, September 25, with an exclusive VIP dinner and networking experience. On Saturday, September 26, attendees will enjoy a full day of educational sessions, panel discussions, networking, vendor shopping, raffles, recognition, and the awards ceremony.
A major part of the event is the celebration of individuals who are making a difference in the lives of children and families. Awards will recognize excellence among parents, family day home professionals, childcare center leaders, educators, teachers, childcare professionals, and homeschool educators.
Award categories include Parent of the Year, Family Day Home Leadership, Child Day Center Excellence, Religious Exemption Leadership, Pre-K Teacher of the Year, Early Childhood Educator of the Year, Childcare Professional of the Year, Homeschool Educator of the Year, Infant Teacher of the Year, Toddler Teacher of the Year, and Voluntary Registration Excellence.
More than an industry event, the Childcare & Family Legacy Conference is designed to strengthen the full community surrounding a child. Parents and caregivers can discover new resources, while childcare professionals can learn strategies to improve their programs, strengthen their teams, and better serve families. Educators, nonprofit leaders, mentors, vendors, and community advocates will also have opportunities to develop partnerships and expand their impact.
Under the leadership of Dr. DeShonda Jennings, the conference continues to shine a light on the people whose daily work often goes unseen. By bringing education and recognition together, the event reminds attendees that supporting children requires a united effort from families, professionals, educators, and the community.
The 2nd Annual Childcare & Family Legacy Conference and Awards Ceremony will take place Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia.
To purchase tickets, explore sponsorship opportunities, or learn more about the speakers and conference, visit childcareconference.org.
