2025 Administrators Conference

Experience the inspiring legacy of architect E. Fay Jones, a master of organic design and a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. This guided tour highlights his most iconic works in Arkansas, including the breathtaking Thorncrown Chapel, a soaring glass-and-wood structure nestled in the Ozark woods, celebrated worldwide for its spiritual serenity and seamless harmony with nature. Along the way, discover other Jones-designed spaces that reflect his commitment to craftsmanship, place, and poetic form.

Cost: $100
What: E. Fay Jones Architecture Tour
When: Thursday, November 6, 2025 9:00am-3:00pm
Where: Northwest Arkansas
Included: Bus Tour & Lunch  |  4 AIA/CES HSW
Tour Leader: Ethel Sara Goodstein, University of Arkansas

The mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. Founded by philanthropist and arts patron Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges is a public non-profit charitable organization.

Crystal Bridges takes its name from a nearby natural spring and the bridge construction incorporated in the building, designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. A series of pavilions nestled around two spring-fed ponds house galleries, meeting and classroom spaces, and a large, glass-enclosed gathering hall. Five miles of sculpture and walking trails link the museum’s 134-acre park to downtown Bentonville, Arkansas.

Cost: Sign-up Included with Conference Registration
What: Crystal Bridges Museum
When: Thursday, November 6, 2025 3:00pm-8:00pm (6pm Keynote & 7pm Reception)
Where: Bentonville, Arkansas
Included: Bus Transportation from The Graduate Hotel, Fayetteville

The Administrators’ Workshop will facilitate a series of highly interactive, mentorship-focused conversations among new and experienced administrators on the challenges –and rewards– of academic leadership. (Sign-Up at Registration)

Cost: Sign-up Included with Conference Registration
What: Administrators Workshop
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025 12:30pm-2:30pm
Where: Fayetteville, AK
Included: Lunch  |  2 AIA/CES LU
Workshop Leaders: TBC

Explore the dynamic architectural landscape of Northwest Arkansas, where innovative design meets cultural ambition. This tour features a curated selection of contemporary landmarks from world-renowned architect Marlon Blackwell, to thoughtfully designed public spaces and sustainable developments. Discover how architects are shaping a vibrant region through bold forms, material experimentation, and deep engagement with community and place.

Cost: $100
What: Contemporary Architecture Tour
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025, 2:30pm-6:00pm
Where: Northwest Arkansas
Included: Bus Tour  |  3 AIA/CES HSW
Tour Leaders: Ethel Sara Goodstein, University of Arkansas

Join NAAB for a workshop on the essentials for preparing for a successful accreditation visit under the NAAB 2020 Conditions and Procedures. This practical, hands-on session will feature presentations, exercises and Q&A time with NAAB experts. Workshop highlights will include:

• Key strategies for demonstrating compliance with NAAB Conditions
• Tips on selecting, annotating, and displaying student work
• Guidance on identifying other evidence
• Best practices in assessment

Cost: Sign-up Included with Conference Registration
What: NAAB Workshop
When: Saturday, November 8, 2025 2:30pm-5:00pm
Where: Fayetteville, AK
Included: 2.5 AIA/CES LU
Workshop Leaders: Rebecca Lippert, NAAB Director of Accreditation & Robin Hemenway, NAAB Manager of Accreditation