A New Chapter for Educators: Culture of Joy 2026 at Foster Pavilion

Baylor University’s Center for School Leadership invites school leaders and educators to begin their academic year at Culture of Joy 2026 on August 3, 2026. Taking place at Foster Pavilion, Culture of Joy 2026 is a gathering designed to launch educators into their most joyful year yet!

“We believe that cultivating effective leaders and teachers is the key to unlocking the potential of each student,” Jon Eckert, Ed.D., executive director of the center for school leadership said. “When we work with others, easy wins are nice, but the depth of our struggle often determines the peak of our joy. That’s why we support leaders as they invite students into joy by doing hard things together.”

Rather than a traditional conference, Culture of Joy is a pep rally style celebration that highlights educator success and explores how joy can be central to daily practice. Through professional connection, friendly competition, and inspirational storytelling, Culture of Joy 2026 will lay the groundwork upon which to build joyful, thriving school communities.

This year’s two-hour event will be emceed by award-winning actress, director, producer and author Alison Sweeney. Culture of Joy will bring together administrators, educators, district staff with leaders like Waco Superintendent Tiffany Spicer, Baylor University’s First Gent and experienced educator Brad Livingstone, and BCSL Executive Director Jon Eckert to explore the ABCs (adversity, belonging and curiosity) of joy. There may even be a surprise guest or two!

This event offers powerful stories of educators and their impact in schools of all sizes across regions and grade levels. With 5000 people already registered, Culture of Joy 2026 will be a memorable launch to a hard and joyful year. 

A New Chapter for Educators

This year, the Baylor Center for School Leadership aims to fill Foster Pavilion with educators who are committed to intentional growth and connection. Teachers and school staff will join colleagues from around the world for an event that honors the depth of their work and equips them to lead with joy — uplifting students, staff and entire school communities.