Jamie Reed
Executive Director and Co-Founder, LGB Courage Coalition
January 29–31, 2027
Agenda & speakers
The full 2027 program is being built now and will be published here ahead of registration. In the meantime, here is how the weekend traditionally runs — and who headlined in 2026.
The 2027 program is in progress
Speakers, panels and session times are confirmed through the autumn and published alongside registration in October 2026. Follow us or get in touch to be notified the moment the agenda goes live.
The weekend at a glance
How Roanoke runs
A consistent shape every year: arrive Friday, the substance lands Saturday, and Sunday sends you home. Exact times for 2027 will be confirmed in the published agenda.
Friday
January 29, 2027Afternoon
Registration & check-in opens
Pick up your badge at the Ocean Shores Convention Center. Students, bring a valid student ID to confirm your discounted rate.
Evening
Opening session & Friday keynoteKeynote
The conference opens with welcome remarks and the first keynote address of the weekend.
Late
Hospitality suites & after parties
Hosted at the Quinault Beach Resort and Casino, with complimentary shuttle service running from the convention center.
Saturday
January 30, 2027Morning
Breakfast & opening remarks
The main program begins, with sponsor recognition from the podium.
Morning – Afternoon
Panels & featured speakersMain stage
The heart of the conference: expert speakers and panel discussions on the political trends and policy fights shaping Washington State.
Throughout
Vendor & sponsor booths
Campaigns, organizations and firms exhibiting through the day between sessions.
Evening
Gala dinner, keynote & awardsGala
The centerpiece of the weekend. A respected keynote speaker, plus presentation of the Slade Gorton Rising Star Award and, in years it is given, the Andy Hill Learn, Earn, Serve Award.
Late
Political Science Theater 3000
A humor show, often subtle, genuinely funny — and a Roanoke institution. Followed by after parties on site.
Sunday
January 31, 2027Morning
Closing session & farewell
Final remarks, last conversations over coffee, and checkout before the drive home.
Session titles and times above describe the conference’s traditional format and are indicative only. The confirmed 2027 schedule will replace this timeline when it is published.
Recent keynotes
Who headlined in 2026
The 2026 conference was held January 23–24 in Ocean Shores.
Mary Katharine Ham
Fox News contributor and podcast host
Ocean Shores, Washington
Be in the room in 2027.
Registration opens in October, and Roanoke has sold out in recent years.