Igniting Connections Annual Early Childhood Symposium

The Igniting Connections Symposium is an annual professional development event that brings together early childhood educators, directors, and advocates from across the New River Valley. The symposium provides a space to access the  knowledge, skills, and support they need to succeed in their roles as educators, as well as share experiences, gain new insights, be inspired, and feel valued as professionals. 

The first Igniting Connections Symposium was launched in 2017 by the Alliance for Better Childcare (ABCs), a nonprofit organization committed to increasing the availability of quality child care in our region. In 2021, the Virginia Tech Early Childhood Education Initiatives (ECEI) assumed the symposium’s coordination using the foundation laid by ABCs.

Each year, the symposium features engaging speakers and interactive workshops, and covers key topics, like fostering communication, language development, and improvements for affordability and accessibility. The event also celebrates the outstanding work of those who have positively impacted early childhood education.