Spark Connections & Celebrate Excellence

There is still time to submit and recognize the leadership and impact happening across our network. With ten award categories and a streamlined application process, this is a great opportunity to lift up the work of your colleagues and partners.

Awardees will be celebrated during a virtual ceremony will be on November 13 beginning at 4:00 PM ET with the Zoom room opening beginning at 3:50 PM with room capacity limited to 450 attendees. This ceremony will be recorded and posted on the event page at a future date.

Submit a Nomination

We encourage you to submit a nomination, participate in the Spark Sessions, and join us in celebrating connection and excellence across AUCD.

2025 AUCD Virtual Network Connection Sessions

This fall, AUCD is excited to bring our National Network together through two engaging virtual events: the Spark Network Connection Sessions 

• Lightning Talks: UCEDDs, LENDs, and IDDRCs can submit one slide and a 2-minute presentation to spotlight work that sparks pride and energy. 
• Bright Spark Chats: Following the Lightning Talks, small-group discussions will provide opportunities to build connections and exchange ideas across the network.
  • Registration is only required if your center plans to present. General event attendance does not require registration. Slides must be submitted to [email protected] by October 6 if your center would like to present.
  • Presenters: AUCD is committed to making our virtual events welcoming, inclusive, and accessible for all participants. Visit our 2025 Accessibility & Inclusion Guidelines
  • Accommodations: We will be using automated captioning through Zoom for these meetings. If you require additional accommodations, please let us know by emailing [email protected] by September 30, 2025.

Mark your calendars for upcoming virtual meetings:

• NIRS Data Coordinator Meeting
  Thursday, November 6 | 3:00 - 4:30 PM ET
• UCEDD Directors Meeting
  Wednesday, November 12 | 2:00 – 5:00 PM ET
• Annual Business Meeting for Directors
  Thursday, November 13 | 2:00 – 3:45 PM ET
• Awards Ceremony (open to all)
  Thursday, November 13 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM ET
• LEND Directors Meeting
  Tuesday, November 18 | 2:00 – 5:00 PM ET

Learn More