ANNUAL CONFERENCE DATES - MAY 1,2,3
Location: School of Mines - Friedhoff Hall at The Green Center
924 16th Street, Golden, Colorado 80401
This year’s District 26 Annual Conference isn’t about digging—it’s about striking brilliance. You’ve already unearthed the courage to speak. Now it’s time to refine your storytelling, polish your delivery, and forge messages that shine.
Step into a space where transformation begins. The District 26 Toastmasters Annual Conference is more than an event—it’s a forge for leadership and a studio for self-expression. This year’s theme, “Forging Leaders, Refining Voices,” invites you to shape your potential, sharpen your message, and rise with purpose.
Join us for a dynamic experience filled with:
🔹 Skill-building workshops to strengthen your leadership edge
🔹 Speech contests that celebrate clarity, courage, and creativity
🔹 Networking moments that spark lasting connections
🔹 Reflections and revelations that refine your voice
Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just beginning your journey, this is your invitation to grow, connect, and lead with impact.
- Conference Registration
- Conference Hotel
- Conference Agenda
- Silent Auction
- Sponsorship and Advertising Packages
See Conference Agenda Tab for Pre-Conference Happy Hour Activity
To Register: Click the “Add Ticket” (+) button to begin.
For each ticket you select, please complete the required questions.
Your contact details and payment information will be collected securely during checkout.
The registration below is for the Saturday International Speech Contest, taking place at 3:15 PM on Saturday, May 2nd. Sales will close at 4PM on May 2nd.
Cancellation Policy: 1. Cancellations must be received In writing 5 working days prior to the conference date to be eligible for a refund. Send Email to district26toastmasters[at]gmail.com and include your name, email and contact numbers. 2. A refund less $ 25 administrative fee will be made promptly. 3. If you register for the conference and do not attend, you are liable for the full amount unless cancelled per above terms.
** IMPORTANT NOTICE
District 26 is using Zeffy to avoid PayPal fees and keep 100% of ticket sales.
Zeffy suggests a donation at checkout, but it’s optional.
To opt out, set the donation contribution to 0.00 before completing your purchase. **IMPORTANT NOTICE**
Official Conference Hotel
Hotel Details
Denver Marriott West
1717 Denver West Boulevard
Golden, Colorado 80401 USA
📞 +1 (303) 279-9100
Please reserve your room by Midnight – Monday, April 13, 2026
https://www.d26toastmasters.org/2026-conference-agenda/
Before the conference officially begins, we’re offering an optional activity on Thursday, April 30th:
Informal Happy Hour at Blue Bonnet
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- with Gauri Seshadri 1st Vice President of Toastmasters International
- 457 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209 — 5:00–7:00 PM – Attendees pay for their own food and beverages.
If you plan to participate in the Thursday activity, please indicate your plans by answering the question located just after the name tag section on the registration form
2026 District 26 Silent Auction! 🎉
The Silent Auction is open now for bidding!
A tisket, a tasket, a SILENT AUCTION BASKET
The Silent Auction at Conference 2026 is a pivotal fundraising event aimed at enhancing the educational programs and opportunities within District 26 Toastmasters. By participating, you contribute to the enrichment of communication and leadership skills across our diverse community. This auction not only supports our mission but also fosters connections among members and attendees, creating a vibrant and engaging experience for all. Be a part of this engaging event and make your contribution today.
The District 26 Annual Conference will take place May 1 – 2, 2026. YOU CAN HELP with the Silent Auction! Please contact your club-mates about contributing baskets to the Silent Auction.
In the past, baskets had a theme like ”Party Time,” or “Movie Night.” The more popular baskets include chocolate, wine, games, gift certificates, books, or food. Clubs can ask each member to contribute, or individuals can submit personal items. Business owners can donate a gift certificate for their services, and authors can donate their books! Corporate donors are also very welcome! Contact us for details. Let’s get your creative juices flowing! Please review this list of possible contribution themes:
- Summertime or Barbecue Cooking
- Aromatherapy
- Taste Sensations
- Hobbies like gardening, fishing, automobiles, pets, exercise, sports, or aviation
- Books – mysteries, romance, science fiction, fantasy
The sky’s the limit! Complete the donor form below, and please send it by April 27th. Then bring your basket to the conference on Friday, May 1st. If you can’t attend the conference but would like to support the Silent Auction with a donation, contact us, and we will help you make arrangements to ensure your gift can be transported to the conference.
SUBMIT YOUR INFORMATION BY EMAIL USING THIS Silent Auction 2026_Fillable .pdf FORM Send to – Marcia Wood – tm.marciawood[at]gmail.com OR
Mary Hoftiezer – Mary_Hoftiezer[at]yahoo.com
Do you want to be a sponsor or advertise at the District 26 Toastmasters Annual Conference?! This is a great way to promote your organization and support the Toastmasters Mission!
Advertising spots start as low as $50! Deadline for sponsorship and advertisements is Thursday, April 23rd at midnight! Act now to be a part of this premier event!
Visit our Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunity page here
Gauri Seshadri’s Saturday Morning Workshop Sponsored by:Cybermama Design https://www.
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Keynote Spotlight
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of Inspiration, Leadership, and World‑Class Speaking. Meet our Keynote Presenters and Workshop Co-Presenter.
Gauri Seshadri – Friday Keynote
Step into the conference weekend with a message of vision and empowerment from Toastmasters International’s First Vice President. Gauri sets the tone with leadership insights that elevate confidence and inspire purposeful communication
Bob Hooey – Saturday Keynote
Join Accredited Speaker Bob Hooey for a powerful look at how storytelling shapes influence. His keynote offers practical tools and fresh inspiration for speakers at every level as he challenges you to think differently.
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Skills Pay: Monetize Your Toastmasters Experience
Gauri Seshadri, DTM
First Vice President, Toastmasters International
We’re thrilled to announce that Toastmasters’ First Vice President, Gauri Seshadri, will serve as one of our keynote speakers and workshop presenters at this year’s District 26 Annual Conference!
Gauri brings a wealth of leadership insight, global perspective, and a passion for empowering voices. Her keynote will inspire us to mine deeper for confidence and speak with purpose, while her workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of Toastmasters’ top leaders.
Whether you’re refining your storytelling, elevating your club, or stepping into new leadership roles, this is your chance to gain golden insights from a true trailblazer.
Don’t miss this unforgettable experience—register today and be part of the transformation.
“Toastmasters has shown me that my voice matters—and that I can use it to create meaningful change,” Seshadri said. “It empowers people worldwide to build confidence, embrace new challenges and opportunities, and grow into their full potential.”
Meet Bob Hooey, DTM,
Accredited Speaker
Bob Hooey is one of only 88 Toastmasters worldwide to earn the Accredited Speaker designation. Known as the “Idea Man,” Bob blends humor, storytelling, and practical wisdom to ignite leadership and communication excellence. He’s a global speaker, author, and trainer whose work has empowered thousands across North America and beyond.
Keynote Focus – Enriched: A Shared Life Well-Mined
Join Bob as he shares reflections from his 35‑year journey in Toastmasters—filled with lessons learned, memorable highlights, and rich experiences with remarkable people and places around the world. Bob believes that life itself is an adventure, and Toastmasters is the perfect place to embark on yours. Where else can you find a community eager to help you uncover the treasures in your own life while achieving your dreams?
“In these uncertain and challenging times people need help and they need hope! That is my purpose, business, and message!”
Meet Our Esteemed Saturday Workshop & Sunday Morning Presenter
Marty Dickinson
Marty Dickinson is the president of Here Next Year, LLC, (https://HereNextYear.com) a 30-year business development agency. He joined his first Toastmasters club in 1990 and is currently the VP Public Relations for Professional Presenters Toastmasters club in Denver. Marty has served in all club officer roles as well as Area Governor, Division Governor (before they were called Directors) and District Webmaster. Marty credits Toastmasters for helping him to use speaking to build three businesses over the past 30 years. Marty was honored to present his Toastmasters club mentoring program on the main stage of the Toastmasters International convention in Anaheim, CA, in 2024.
Marty is known as the “Business Longevity Guy” for his expertise in helping businesses attract sales opportunities and grow even during economic downturns. He has published nine books including Lions Always Win: How to Spot What You Want in Your Professional Speaking Business and Life…and Get it Too. He is currently serving as Membership Director for the Colorado chapter of National Speakers Association founded Speakers Speak LIVE, a weekly virtual event that allows professional speakers to showcase their skills and collaborate with a diverse international community. Marty’s passion for empowering others is evident in his work as a speaker, author, and marketing chaperone, helping businesses and individuals thrive even in challenging economic times.
What Our Attendees Say
★★★★★
“Attending the Toastmasters conference was a transformative experience. I left with newfound confidence and a toolkit of communication skills.”
Alex Johnson
Marketing Specialist
★★★★★
“The sessions were incredibly insightful, and I learned practical techniques to improve my public speaking.”
Rachel Kim
Project Manager
★★★★★
“Toastmasters has significantly boosted my confidence. The conference was a pivotal moment in my personal development journey.”
Michelle Thompson
Entrepreneur