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2026 CSDA Annual Conference
& Exhibitor Showcase

August 24 – 27, 2026
Palm Desert, CA


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Keynote Speakers

Ben Nemtin

Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Ben Nemtin
Star of Hit TV Series "The Buried Life" & Co-Founder of The Buried Life Movement; New York Times Bestselling Author; Mental Health Advocate

“Powered by Purpose”

Sponsored by California Class logo

“In today’s relentless environment, where uncertainty reigns supreme and burnout threatens even the strongest teams, why do some organizations continue to thrive while others struggle? Ben reveals the game-changing truth: purpose isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the secret weapon that fueled his own extraordinary journey, lifting him from the depths of depression to ignite a global movement and achieve the seemingly impossible. Through compelling scientific evidence and unforgettable stories, Ben demonstrates how embracing your professional and personal purpose unleashes untapped potential, creates true work-life harmony, and empowers you to become the best version of yourself.

In this revolutionary keynote, discover why purpose-driven individuals and teams are 7x more likely to overcome challenges, focusing on the “why” that ignites passion and resilience. Ben masterfully blends cutting-edge science with captivating storytelling to reveal how purpose transforms organizational culture from the inside out.

Leaders will gain actionable strategies to build trust, authentically demonstrate care for their teams’ well-being, and foster innovation, retention, and breakthrough performance. This isn’t merely theoretical, it’s a strategic blueprint for translating purpose into tangible outcomes and cultivating a workplace that inspires genuine passion.”

Kyle Scheele

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Kyle Scheele
Innovation and Leadership Speaker, Champion of Crazy Ideas, Accidental TikToker (3M+ Followers), Author

“Thinking Inside The Box: How Tough Times Fuel True Creativity and Innovation”

Sponsored by Special District Risk Management logo

“We’ve all said it: “If only I had ________, then I could do __________.”

We’re convinced that the only thing standing between us and our best work is more money, more time, more resources, more buy-in, a better team, a better boss, a better piece of software… the list goes on.

But the truth is, real creative work thrives within constraints.

True creative work exists in the gap between what you have and what you think you need. After all, if you had everything you needed, you wouldn’t need creativity at all.

True creativity showed up when the Apollo 13 astronauts had to make square filters fit round tubes. It showed up when a global pandemic made in-person work a liability. And it’ll show up for you too, once you let go of your misguided beliefs about what true creativity requires.

In this talk, Kyle will:

  • Show how constraints are the breeding ground for creativity.
  • Identify the difference between constructive constraint and restrictive constraint.
  • Help reframe the constraints in your organization and find the solutions you’ve been searching for.
  • Walk through tools and exercises to break through creative blocks.

Hotel Information

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
74-855 Country Club Dr
Palm Desert, CA 92260

HOTEL ROOM RESERVATIONS: Room reservations are available starting at the rate of $159 plus a discounted $20 resort fee plus taxes and fees per room per night. The room reservation cut-off is July 22, 2026; however, space is limited and may sell out before this date.

One night’s non-refundable room and tax will be charged on 7/22/26 for rooms reserved in the CSDA room block.

Information regarding hotel reservations and links to book in the CSDA room block will be emailed within 24 hours of registration.

Please be cautious of unauthorized third-party agencies, known as “room pirates,” who might reach out to you offering discounted hotel accommodations. These unauthorized solicitors often misrepresent themselves as being associated with our event or hotel partners and may offer rooms that do not actually exist, leaving you without a valid reservation. Please book your room directly through the link provided that CSDA provides within 24 hours of registering. Also, avoid sharing your personal or payment information with unofficial agencies and report any suspicious contact to our team immediately.

2026 Sponsors

2026 Champion Level Sponsors

California ClassCalifornia Bank of CommerceSpecial District Leadership FoundationSpecial District Risk Management Association

2026 Advocate Level Sponsors

Liebert Cassidy WhitmoreRichard Watson Gershon

2026 Friend Level Sponsors

AllPaidCPS HR ConsultingNossaman, LLPSitelogiQStreamline powered by CivicPlus LogoTri Counties BankVC3

The informational and educational level of the materials and presentations are very appropriate for seasoned veterans, as well as new and emerging leaders

Kara Ralston,
Camarillo Health Care District