Highlights from the 39th Annual International Conference
This month, ACT hosted our 39th Annual International Conference in New Orleans, LA. Held from August 3-6, this event welcomed hundreds of attendees for four days of insights, networking, and real-life learning in the Big Easy. With highlights ranging from keynotes to unique session topics, one of the biggest Opening Receptions yet, and so much more, there's a lot to share. Follow along with the schedule below and check out some highlights from this highly anticipated event!
Day one - Sunday, August 3
The day started things off strong at the conference with a series of impactful workshops and tours. Attendees had the opportunity to join in on a swamp tour, New Orleans bike ride, riverboat cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, and a fun scavenger hunt. We held a total of four workshops for attendees to level up their professional development and TDM learning:
- Grant Writing for Beginners: Tailored to the TDM Industry
- From Aspiration to Certification: Preparing for the TDM-CP Exam
- Shaping Public Perception: Strategic Media Engagement in TDM
From there, it was off to the President's Reception hosted by Board President Roz Tucker. This invite-only event welcomed ACT leaders, supporters, and friends to an intimate reception. Then, it was finally time for the highly anticipated Opening Reception featuring a special Masquerade Ball theme. Great music, dancing, food, and fun was had by all! This was certainly one of the most memorable Opening Receptions yet.
Scroll through the slideshow for highlights from Sunday.
Day two - Monday, August 4
Day two was the first full day, and it did not disappoint! First up was a Welcome Address from ACT's leadership and a special keynote panel titled Resilience in Motion: Advancing Transportation for a Stronger New Orleans. This panel focused on lessons learned from the host city's region about resilience, sustainability, and equitable transportation solutions. We had a great lineup of speakers including Ian Todreas (moderator), Lona Hankins (New Orleans Regional Transportation Authority), Greg Nichols (City of New Orleans), and Kim Marousek (Center for Planning Excellence).
Then, it was time for breakout sessions to begin. With one slot in the morning and two in the afternoon, there was lots of opportunity for learning and networking alike. Focuses for day one ranged from stadium and megaevent mobility to microtransit pilot programs, micromobility, and commuter tax regulations. The day proceeded with chapter meetings, council meetings, and a fun reception where attendees could network and meet our fantastic Exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall.
Scroll through the slideshow for highlights from Monday.
Day three - Tuesday, August 5
Attendees set out for another full day, which started bright and early for some at our Morning Wellness Walk. The first item for all on the agenda was ACT's 2025 Annual Meeting. With an incredible year at ACT, there was much to share. We recognized the incredible co-chairs of this year's conference committee, Imani Johnson and Shontay Rose-Bell, then welcomed next year's co-chairs, Stacy Newcomer and Tim Phelps. Then, it was time to announce the first-ever contribution from ACT's Community Sponsor, Agile Mile. Through this sponsorship, a donation was made to Propeller, an incredible local nonprofit that we're thrilled to support.
After highlights were shared from the Finance Committee, Accreditation Committee, and Membership Committee, it was time to head out to first session of the day. With focuses from universal basic mobility to TDM as resilience, bikes in TDM, and so much more, it was another full day packed with insights. The afternoon continued with a special afternoon keynote from Shailen Bhatt of AtkinsRéalis. It was then off to council meetings to wrap up the day.
Scroll through the slideshow for highlights from Tuesday.
Day three - Wednesday, August 6
The final day brought recognition for outstanding individuals and organizations in TDM. Wednesday began with the 2025 ACT National Awards and the 2026 Conference announcement. Featuring hosts Courtney Reynolds and Allie Velleca, this ceremony was upbeat, fun, and engaging. We recognized recipients of the ACT National Awards and President's Awards, as well as the TDM Hall of Fame. It was a blast to start thinking ahead to all the fun we'll have in Philadelphia next year. Not only will it be ACT's 40th Annual International Conference, it will be July of the 250th year of the country!
After one slot of breakout sessions, the event officially wrapped. This year was truly one to remember, and we're going to do it again next year with an even bigger and better conference! Save the date for the 40th Annual International Conference, which will take place from July 26-29 in Philadelphia, PA.
Scroll through the slideshow for highlights from Wednesday.