Preliminary Agenda: This agenda is subject to change. Session times, topics, and speakers may be updated as planning continues. Please check back for the most current version.
This year's annual conference takes us to the Everett Waterfront for three days of business sessions, partner conversations, and collaborative planning. With many members preparing for transitions and new leaders stepping into roles across the association, this conference is designed to build a strong foundation for the future of WSACA.
Lodging Information
The conference will be held at Hotel Indigo Seattle Everett Waterfront. A room block has been reserved for conference attendees. Please use the group booking link provided in your registration confirmation to reserve your room at the group rate. The room block cutoff date is Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Rooms released after this date are subject to availability and standard pricing.
Virtual Attendance Option
This conference will be live-streamed for WSACA members unable to attend in person. Virtual registration is available for those wishing to participate remotely. Please select your attendance type (in-person or virtual) when registering.
Some sessions are designated as internal association business and are intended for WSACA members and their staff. All other sessions are open to registered attendees.
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Check-In and Networking WSACA Business
Conference registration and check-in open. Connect with colleagues as we prepare to kick off the conference.
1:30 PM – 1:50 PM
Welcome Remarks WSACA Business
Opening remarks from WSACA leadership and a welcome from local dignitaries, including a greeting from the Port of Everett, followed by an overview of the conference agenda.
1:50 PM – 2:15 PM
Setting the Stage for the Conference WSACA Business
Conference Chair Garth Fell grounds attendees in the goals and expectations for the week and reminds us who we are and what our mission is.
2:20 PM – 3:20 PM
WSACA General Membership Meeting WSACA Business
President Chandra Schumacher reflects on the work accomplished by the association since last year's annual meeting. Committee chairs report on the work accomplished during the 2025–2026 term. This session is designed to give all members, especially those newer to the association, a foundational understanding of each committee's role, how they operate, and where leadership opportunities exist. With significant retirements on the horizon, this is a call for the next wave of members to step into key roles.
Committees reporting will include Finance, Licensing, Recording, and Elections.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Legislative Session Review and Takeaways
Legislative Committee Co-chairs Linda Farmer and Lori Larsen along with Mike Shaw will review the 2026 State Legislative Session and identify key takeaways and interim work to prepare for the next session.
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Evening Networking Activity
Join your colleagues for an evening of connection and conversation on the Everett Waterfront.
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Breakfast and Networking
Start the morning with coffee, breakfast, and conversation with colleagues.
8:30 AM – 8:40 AM
Opening Remarks
Conference Chair Garth Fell welcomes everyone back and sets the stage for the day.
8:40 AM – 9:25 AM
Fireside Chat: Department of Licensing
A conversational session with representatives from the Department of Licensing, led by Conference Chair Garth Fell.
9:35 AM – 10:35 AM
Fireside Chat: Office of the Secretary of State
A conversational session with representatives from the Office of the Secretary of State, led by Conference Chair Garth Fell.
10:35 AM – 10:45 AM
Break
10:45 AM – 11:30 AM
Fireside Chat: State Auditor's Office
A conversational session with representatives from the State Auditor's Office, led by Conference Chair Garth Fell.
11:30 AM – 11:45 AM
Morning Wrap-Up and Transition to Lunch
11:45 AM – 1:00 PM
Lunch Break
A full lunch will be provided for conference attendees.
1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Visit Naval Station Everett Tentative
Auditors will receive a station tour and meet with the Voting Assistance Officer and mail personnel to better understand the UOCAVA voting experience.
3:45 PM – 4:45 PM
Legislative Support Model WSACA Business
WSACA members will discuss the legislative support model.
4:45 PM – 5:00 PM
Day Two Closing Remarks
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Recharge Break — Time to relax and prepare for the evening program.
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Evening Reception
No-host gathering prior to dinner.
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Annual Banquet
Join us for a celebratory evening featuring dinner, special remarks, and recognition of member achievements and milestones.
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Breakfast and Networking
Ease into the final morning with breakfast and conversation.
8:30 AM – 8:45 AM
Opening Remarks
Conference Chair Garth Fell opens the final day of the conference.
8:45 AM – 9:45 AM
WSACA Business Meeting: Budget, Bylaws, and SOPP Updates WSACA Business
A working session covering the 2026 association budget, goals achieved during the current term, and proposed updates to WSACA bylaws and standard operating procedures. Members will have the opportunity to review changes, provide input, and vote on proposed amendments.
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
WSACA Business Meeting (cont.)
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM
Conference Recap, Commitments, and Closing Remarks
A facilitated wrap-up reviewing key decisions, action items, and commitments made throughout the conference. A brief send-off and final thoughts from WSACA leadership. Safe travels home.