ALL IN ALWAYS.
POWER IN UNITY.
2026 NY Alliance for Inclusion & Innovation
Pre & Annual Conference
April 14-17, 2026, The Sagamore Resort, Bolton Landing, NY
Keynote Speakers
Opening Keynote
Nolan Nichols
Nolan Nichols is a Fortune 500 keynote speaker, master storyteller, and founder of A Million Dreams. Based in Washington, D.C., he brings a unique blend of professional storytelling, education, and real‑world business experience to the stage. Drawing on his background as a video producer for top global brands and his master’s degree in education, Nolan delivers highly engaging keynotes designed to inspire, empower, and equip today’s workforce.
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Known for his practical, high‑impact approach, Nolan helps organizations build resilience, enhance well‑being, and create thriving workplace cultures. His presentations are tailored to the realities of an ever‑changing work environment and provide actionable strategies attendees can apply immediately. Featured in leading industry publications including Skift Meetings, MPI, Smart Meetings, and Meetings Today, Nolan is recognized for helping teams excel in times of disruption by unlocking the potential of their greatest asset—their people.
Closing Keynote
Russell Lehmann
Russell Lehmann is an award‑winning, internationally recognized keynote speaker, poet, author, and activist known for his powerful work at the intersection of autism, mental health, disability, and society. Through raw, transparent storytelling and spoken‑word poetry, Russell delivers deeply moving presentations that educate, challenge assumptions, and inspire meaningful change.
A TEDx speaker and contributor to Psychology Today, Russell brings both professional credibility and lived experience to the stage, sharing his personal journey of being diagnosed with autism at age 12 following an extended psychiatric hospitalization. His talks explore resilience, inclusion, and mental well‑being with honesty, candor, and moments of humor, creating a strong emotional connection with audiences. Serving on multiple national boards and councils, Russell is a leading voice in disability advocacy whose presentations leave attendees with a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and the human impact of inequity.