district 117 toastmasters 2026 spring Conference

Chart Your Course

McKimmon Center, NC State University | Raleigh, NC

May 29-30, 2026

Chart Your Course

Honoring Our Legacy

Write a short text about your service

Write a short text about your service

Opens January 2026

Guided by Values
Leading with Purpose

Join us for the District 117 Toastmasters Spring Conference 2026, a two-day leadership experience celebrating growth, connection, and purpose.

Transform Your Leadership Journey

black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
World-Class Learning

Gain insights from Lance Miller's keynote address and participate in hands-on educational sessions designed for every skill level—from emerging speakers to seasoned champions.

CHART YOUR COURSE TO EXCELLENCE

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
white concrete building during daytime
white concrete building during daytime
Championship Contest

Experience the thrill of District 117's International Speech and Evaluation Contest finals. Watch the best speakers compete and learn from their mastery.

Network & Connect

Build lasting relationships with fellow Toastmasters from across eastern North Carolina through structured networking and our elegant gala banquet.

black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile
Inspiration & Motivation
Leave a Legacy...and Honor One
Celebrate Excellence

Leave energized, inspired, and equipped with actionable strategies to take your communication and leadership to the next level.


Attend our last conference as the district covering Eastern North Carolina before merging into one state. Honor your mentors and others who have helped shape your Toastmasters journey.

Honor our Distinguished Toastmasters in the DTM Gauntlet Ceremony and celebrate the achievements of members who've reached the pinnacle of Toastmasters success.

Two dynamic days that will elevate your speaking skills, expand your network, and accelerate your path to excellence

Lance Miller

KEYNOTE SPEAKER, WORLD CHAMPION OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

Top rated by 100+ clients

★★★★★

We’re honored to welcome Lance Miller, 2005 World Champion of Public Speaking, to the District 117 Spring Conference!


With his trademark storytelling and heart-centered approach, Lance inspires audiences to lead with authenticity, courage, and conviction.

His keynote will challenge us all to rise, refocus, and rediscover the “why” behind our leadership.

(More speaker announcements coming soon!)

Stay Up To Date. Link to the app!

Get notified when registration opens, new educational sessions, sponsors, agenda changes, conference news and more!

Preliminary Conference Agenda

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Registration Open

5:00 PM – 5:45 PM

DTM Reception – Networking & Charcuterie

5:45 PM – 6:00 PM

Banquet Seating Opens

6:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Conference Gala & Banquet

  • Official Welcome & Keynote Address

  • Dinner Buffet with Dessert

  • DTM Gauntlet Ceremony

Two action-packed days of learning, competing, and connecting

Friday, May 29, 2026

Saturday, May 30, 2026

7:00 AM – 7:45 AM

Continental Breakfast

8:00 AM – 8:50 AM

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

10:00 AM – 10:50 AM

10:50 AM – 11:20 AM

11:20 AM – 12:20 PM

Evaluation Contest
Communication & Leadership Lunch w/ Networking Topic Tables
Opening General Session
Education Sessions – Round 1
Contestant & Judges Briefings

6:00 PM – 6:30 PM

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

3:20 PM – 4:40 PM

Closing Ceremony & Recognition
Open Networking, Legacy Party for Ramona Baylor

2:00 PM – 2:50 PM

Education Sessions – Round 2

This is tentative schedule. Subject to change.

Lobby / Vendor Area
Room 2B
Room 2C
Room 2C
Room 1D
Room 1C
Room 1C, 8A, 8B
Room 1C, 8A, 8B
Room 1C, 8B
Room 1C
Room 2C
Room 1C
Room 1D
Room 1C
Contestant & Judges Briefings
Room 1C, 8B

7:00 AM – 7:45 AM

First Timers Breakfast with International Director Ramona Baylor, World Champion of Public Speaking, Lance Miller, the TRIO, and District Historian, Peggy Beach
Room 8A

8:50 AM – 9:50 AM

Keynote Workshop with Lance Miller
Room 1C

10:50 AM – 11:20 AM

Networking Breaks and Mini Workshops I
Lobby, Courtyard, 8A

2:50 PM – 3:20 PM

4:40 PM – 5:00 PM

International Speech Contest
Lobby, Courtyard
Networking Breaks and Mini Workshops II
Lobby, Courtyard, 8A

2:50 PM – 3:20 PM

Networking Break

6:30 PM – onwards

Toastmasters Late, Late Show with Al Herr
Room 1C

Meet Us @ McKimmon

Navigate your way to the McKimmon Center at NC State University. The venue features free parking, Wi-Fi for conference attendees, and plenty of spaces for connecting and networking.

Chart Your Course to Excellence

Join us for an unforgettable weekend of growth, connection, and inspiration at the District 117 Toastmasters Spring Conference 2026! Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just beginning your Toastmasters journey, this conference offers something extraordinary for everyone.

Over two dynamic days, you'll experience world-class keynote presentations, compete in or witness thrilling speech contests, participate in hands-on educational sessions, and connect with fellow Toastmasters from across eastern North Carolina.

This isn't just a conference—it's your opportunity to honor where we've been, reaffirm our shared values, and lead with purpose into the future.

What Awaits You:

  • Keynote address by renowned speaker Lance Miller

  • International Speech & Evaluation Contest finals

  • Educational breakout sessions tailored to every skill level

  • DTM Gauntlet Ceremony celebrating our highest achievers

  • Gala banquet with awards and entertainment

  • Structured networking opportunities throughout the weekend

Mark your calendars for May 29-30, 2026. Your journey to leadership excellence continues here.

person holding compass
person holding compass

I’m always excited to be part of these amazing gatherings — meeting 100+ Toastmasters from all walks of life, networking with seasoned speakers, witnessing champions in action, and just having fun with my fellow club members. You never know — you might meet your future mentor or a lifelong friend!

- Uday Kiran

Serving on the First Timers Committee gave me a chance to connect with members from across the District and see the conference through fresh eyes. I truly enjoyed welcoming attendees, sharing experiences, and learning together. If you’ve never attended, come ready to be inspired and leave with new friends and renewed motivation.

- Pamela Flemions

I look forward to the next one. I encourage you to attend with an open heart and a curious mind. Seek out your golden nuggets—those moments of connection, learning, and joy—and share them with others.

- Cheri McCoy

From engaging activities such as the speech contests to social events, it’s a chance to enjoy yourself while growing as a communicator and leader. If you’re looking for a meaningful, energizing experience that will elevate your Toastmasters journey, the District Conference is the place to be.

- Oliver Hartmann

What To Expect When You Come

Have some QUESTIONS?

What will be included in my registration?

Your conference registration will include access to all keynote presentations, educational breakout sessions, both contest finals, the Saturday gala banquet, all meals listed in the schedule, conference materials, networking events, and the DTM Gauntlet Ceremony.

What services are available for special needs and requests?

There are local services available at the local level as part of the general area health plan. These services are provided at the point of emergency or where needed.

Can I attend just one day?

While the full conference experience is highly recommended, single-day pass options will be evaluated. Check back when registration opens in January 2026, or download the app for updates on single-day availability.

Where can I stay?

We've secured discounted rates at several nearby hotels and will release information about an affordable accommodation at NC State's Wolf Village Apartments once registration opens. The McKimmon Center is conveniently located on NC State's campus with easy access to Raleigh attractions.

What's the dress code?

Business casual for daytime sessions and educational workshops. Business professional or semiformal attire for the evening gala banquet.

What happens if there is a schedule change?

Of course, firstly we will inform you via the app by push notification.

Everything you need to know for a seamless conference experience

Is parking available?

Yes! Free parking is available at the McKimmon Center. Detailed parking information and directions will be sent with your registration confirmation.

When will registration open and pricing be announced?

Registration will open in January 2026. Pricing details will be announced at that time. Download the conference app to be among the first to know when registration opens and to receive early bird pricing details.

Will there be early bird pricing?

Yes! Early bird pricing, or our Super Saver Discount, will be available for a limited time after registration opens in January. (This will be the most cost effective rate and that is a Pergerson Promise.) Download the app and turn on notifications to ensure you don't miss out on the best rates.

Who should attend this conference?

Everyone! Whether you're a brand-new member or a Distinguished Toastmaster, the conference offers value for every skill level. New members gain inspiration and foundational skills, while experienced members can refine their craft, compete, network with peers, and celebrate achievements.

educational session speakers

We’ve been featured on Design Today, and worked hard to get you the best industry leading speakers today.

Ralf Brauer

Queen’s University, Canada

Sara Boyd

University of Virginia, USA

Jean Kistler

Creighton University, USA

Brandon Eller

Osaka University, Japan

Olga Carley

University of Sydney, Australia

Benjamin Parrish

Virginia Tech, USA

“If everything comes from within, everyone should get equal access to information and opportunities.”