2026 Local Conference
25sep(sep 25)9:00 am26(sep 26)10:45 am
Event Details
RECHARGE – REFLECT – REIMAGINE
We’re preparing an exceptional program filled with industry-leading speakers, impactful educational content, and engaging networking experiences you won’t want to miss.
Pricing: $150 (All meals included)
Register Today | Book Your Hotel | View Conference Agenda
Meet the Speakers:
Dave Collins | Friday, September 25th, 10:45am – 11:45am & 1:00pm-2:00pm
Dave Collins is the Founder and CEO of Oak & Reeds, a training consultancy that uses interactive content to build the communication skills people rely on both at work and in life. With his clients, Dave works as a trainer, facilitator, keynote speaker, and executive coach.
Since founding the business ten years ago, Dave has worked with global clients like Nike, Airbus, Salesforce, TikTok, and Google to help leaders work, manage, and communicate more collaboratively. He also teaches at Stanford University, bringing the same practical, interactive approach to the next generation of leaders in the classroom. Dave is a returning speaker for the Association of Legal Administrators, having presented at both the ALA National Conference and the ALA Golden Gate Conference, helping legal operations leaders strengthen the communication and coaching skills that drive high-performing teams.
Dave has a dual degree in communication and economics from Northwestern University and currently lives outside of Oakland, CA with his wife and son.
Derron Coles | Friday, September 25th, 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Principal Consultant Derron Coles (he/him) is a learning strategist with over 24 years of experience designing learner-focused competency development training. Derron has a wide-ranging portfolio that runs the gamut from learning solutions for technical topics, like a globally utilized online training on river system analysis, to interpersonal skills training, such as his award-winning diversity training curriculum.
Upon completing his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Derron moved to Oregon to complete a masters and doctorate in civil engineering at Oregon State University. Derron spent eight years managing the mathematics program for the OSU Educational Opportunities Program. In this role, Derron led culturally responsive efforts to recruit and retain underrepresented science and engineering students.
Through DRC LS, Derron develops and evaluates project-based workforce development curriculum for green sector organizations and school districts.
“DRC LS helps environmental organizations with equity and inclusion challenges in their work and workplaces.” – Derron
Tracy Knight | Saturday, September 26th, 8:30am – 9:30am | Yoga/Meditation
Tracy Knight (E-RYT® 200, YACEP®) has had a long career in administration. She has worked for law firms, consultants, not-for-profits and financial management firms for over 30 years. Most recently, she has joined the public sector – specifically, King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention, Community Corrections Division. More than ever before, she understands the importance of balance in the midst of chaos.
Yoga, meditation and mindfulness are not just for certain segments of the population – they are for everyone. Tracy has been practicing yoga throughout her life and became certified to teach through Yoga Alliance in 2013. She believes the practice can meet everyone exactly where they are and she continues her mission to present ways to weave mindfulness practices throughout every day.
Dan Fisher, CPA, CGMA | Saturday, September 26th, 9:45am – 10:45am | HUB International – Employee Benefits
Dan Fisher is a nationally recognized expert in risk management, human resources, and employee benefits strategy, with more than 30 years of experience across healthcare, financial management, and benefits. A sought-after conference presenter, panelist, and guest lecturer, Dan delivers entertaining, real-world presentations on financial literacy, employee health benefits, funding strategies, and the strategic decisions shaping today’s workforce investment.
Dan’s career began as a CPA in Seattle, auditing large health and pension plans — giving him an insider’s view of plan finances and fiduciary risk. He carried that discipline into operational leadership as General Manager of a growing regional third-party administration (TPA) firm, deepening his expertise in self-funded and alternative-funded health plan structures.
Dan later channeled that expertise into entrepreneurship, founding a benefits consulting brokerage that grew into EmSpring Corporation. As a small-business owner, he built and led the company from the ground up, gaining firsthand insight into the employer’s perspective on operations, cost pressures, and strategic growth.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Partner with PSALA and elevate your brand visibility by becoming an exclusive sponsor at our Local Conference. Sponsorship opportunities provide a unique chance to connect with industry professionals, strengthen relationships, and showcase your support of our community.
Exclusive event sponsorships are currently available to Gold Level Sponsors. Opportunities will open to all sponsor levels beginning July 1.
Exhibit Table | $2,000 – 3 SOLD
Exhibit Table and 1 attendee included.
Friday Networking Coffee Hour Sponsor | $2,000 – SOLD
Start the conference day with meaningful connections and brand exposure.
Friday Night Happy Hour Sponsor | $3,000
Be the featured sponsor of one of the conference’s premier networking events.
Friday Night Fireside Gathering Sponsor | $2,500
Create a memorable evening experience with attendees around the fire pit.
Saturday Breakfast Sponsor | $2,000
Kick off the final conference day while engaging with attendees in a relaxed setting.
Secure your sponsorship today and align your organization with one of the conference’s most valuable attendee experiences.
NEW: Spa Discount
Cedarbrook Lodge has generously passed along a Spa Discount for our group. When booking online, you will need to mention PSALA or PSALA Local Conference in the notes section. If they prefer to book by phone, please let the receptionist know.