Ascend OC’s Inspiring Across Generations (IAG) Conference 2026

Leading with Innovation

Event Details

Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM PT

Venue: The Westin South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, 686 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626

Admission:

Members: $165 I Members + Guest: $315
Non-Members: $215 I Non-Members + Professional Membership (1-Year): $389
Student Members: $60 I Student Members + Guest: $120
Non-Member Ascend Student Members: $75

Attire: Business Casual

Description

Join the Ascend Orange County Chapter for the Inspiring Across Generations (IAG) 2026 Conference—where we embrace the power of innovation to elevate leadership across every generation.

Guided by this year’s theme, “Leading with Innovation,” the conference empowers students, professionals, and executives to explore how creativity, technology, and allyship are redefining what it means to lead in a rapidly evolving world.

Through engaging keynotes, hands-on workshops, and cross-generational panel discussions, we will dive into three powerful focus areas:

AI: Turning Innovation into Everyday Impact

Be part of an inspiring session on “AI – Turning Innovation into Everyday Impact.” We’ll dive into how emerging AI technologies are moving from concept to practical application, creating meaningful value across industries.
We will learn how organizations are harnessing AI to solve real problems, boost productivity, and unlock new opportunities. Perfect for leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.

The Power of Happiness: The Essence of Leadership

Be part of a thought-provoking session on “The Power of Happiness: The Essence of Leadership.” Learn how happiness fuels clarity, resilience, and stronger connections—core qualities of modern, effective leadership.
We will explore how joy, purpose, and emotional wellbeing shape truly impactful leaders. Discover practical ways to cultivate happiness-driven leadership in your teams.

Mental Health: The Foundation of Resiliency

Join us for an insightful conference on “Mental Health: The Foundation of Resiliency,” where we’ll explore how emotional wellbeing strengthens adaptability, clarity, and long-term success. Discover practical tools to build resilience in both personal and professional settings.
Learn how prioritizing mental wellbeing empowers individuals and teams to navigate challenges with strength and confidence. Gain actionable insights to support a healthier, more balanced future.

Whether you’re launching your career, advancing to the next level, or leading organizations and communities, IAG 2026 will inspire you to lead boldly—with curiosity, innovation, and impact.

Together, we are not just preparing for the future—we are building it.

Program Partners

Platinum

Gold

Jade

Bronze

Donation Partner

Safety of our guests is paramount to Ascend. Attendees are responsible for monitoring their own condition and agree to comply with the safety, hygiene and CDC identified pandemic level communicable illnesses (including COVID-19) guidelines established by relevant health authorities. We request that attendees not attend an event should they test positive or if they experience COVID symptoms prior to the event.