45th Anniversary Conference: Developing Cognition & Executive Functions to Transform Learning
February 4-6, 2027 | In-Person | Suffolk, VA
Registration Opens Soon
Feb 6, 2027 | Conference Keynotes & Breakout Sessions
In-Person Registration | $329
Video Replay | $299
Join us at NILD's 2027 Conference as we mark 45 years of transforming how students who struggle to learn are seen, understood, and taught. This milestone year's focus, Developing Cognition & Executive Functions to Transform Learning, invites educational therapists to look past surface-level struggles and into the deeper cognitive skills, like planning, self-regulation, and working memory, that make real learning possible. Through engaging sessions and practical strategies, you'll discover how strengthening these foundational processes reshapes a student's capacity to think, reason, and grow, extending well beyond the classroom. As NILD celebrates this anniversary, we'll look back at four and a half decades of changing lives through educational therapy, while looking ahead to what's next.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Surina Basho, Ph.D.
Dr. Surina Basho is a developmental psychologist, executive function (EF) specialist, and founder of EF Thrive. She brings more than 20 years of experience in research, clinical practice, and professional education, with expertise in executive functioning and complex neurodevelopmental profiles, including ADHD, learning differences, autism, twice-exceptionality, and related challenges. Dr. Basho earned her Ph.D. in Child Development from Tufts University, conducted research at Stanford University, and served as Director of the Executive Function Research Program at the Morrissey-Compton Educational Center for over a decade. She founded and chaired the Executive Function & Learning Conference and presents nationally, translating executive function research into practical strategies that foster resilient, strategic learners.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Kristin Barbour, EdD, CCC-SLP, PCET
Dr. Kristin Barbour, EdD, CCC-SLP, PCET, is the Executive Director of NILD, a certified educational therapist, and an authorized trainer in the Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment Program. She combines expertise in educational therapy, speech-language pathology, and cognitive development to champion NILD's mission of unlocking student potential through effective, research-based intervention. Prior to leading NILD, she directed Discovery Program, Inc. in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and worked as an inpatient speech-language pathologist at Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk. She earned her EdD in the Mind, Brain, and Teaching program at Johns Hopkins University. An internationally respected educator and keynote speaker, Kristin is committed to bringing life-long learning to life for students worldwide.
Registration Options
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Pick a Pre-Conference Workshop
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If attending a workshop, please register for one of the options below.
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Register to Attend In-Person
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Join us for a celebration of 45 years of transformative learning! At the bottom of this page, access all the details for travel and accommodations.
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Watch the Replay
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Video replay will be available to view approximately two weeks after the Conference dates.
February 4 - 5, 2027: Pre-Conference Workshops
Options coming soon!
Join us in beautiful Suffolk, VA!
Suffolk, Virginia is located in the heart of Coastal Virginia, known for its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and friendly community, Suffolk offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities to enjoy, from strolling through historic neighborhoods and shopping at local boutiques, to hiking through scenic parks and sampling delicious regional cuisine, there's something for everyone in Suffolk. It's a great place for Educational Therapists to get away to relax and recharge for a new season of work! Plus, we're having a social hour with refreshments immediately following the conference.
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Travel
Norfolk International Airport (ORF) | 24 miles away
Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) | 24 miles away
Getting Around
The Hub 757 is just about 24 miles from both ORF and PHF, an easy 30–40 minute drive by rental car or rideshare, perfect for tacking on time to explore Suffolk and the surrounding area before or after the conference. -
Where to Stay
NILD has secured discounted group rates at two hotels near The Hub 757 for the 2027 Conference. Rooms are limited and released to the public after each deadline, so book early.
Comfort Suites Suffolk
5409 Plummer Blvd, Suffolk, VA 23435
(757) 337-4011Rate: $129/night
Group dates: Feb 4 – Feb 7, 2027
Book by: Friday, January 8, 2027
Reserve Your Room – Comfort Suites Suffolk
Courtyard by Marriott Suffolk
8060 Harbour View Boulevard, Suffolk, VA 23435Rate: $119/night
Group dates: Feb 4 – Feb 7, 2027
Book by: Monday, December 21, 2026 -
Conference Venue
Hub 757 offers over 28,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space for a variety of events. Weddings, banquets, meetings, parties – the possibilities are endless. Located in the Harbour View area of Northern Suffolk, Hub 757 features an urban chic, industrial atmosphere capable of accommodating all types of events.
6801 Bridgeway Dr, Suffolk, VA 23435
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Food
Riverstone Chophouse, Taste Unlimited, Ruby Tuesday, La Parilla Mexican Grille, Mezeh, Yama Sushi, Starbucks, Subway, Metro Diner, First Watch, Gianna's Pizzeria, and much more!
Make a Difference
Support the Bridget Hughes Lifelong Learning Scholarship
As you complete your conference registration, consider adding a donation to support the Bridget Hughes Lifelong Learning Scholarship. This fund honors Bridget’s legacy by equipping passionate educators with the training they need to support students with learning differences. Your gift helps remove financial barriers, empowering more educators to gain evidence-based tools that unlock each student’s God-given potential.
Make an Impact Through Sponsorship
Would your school, group, or business like to support NILD’s mission by becoming a Corporate Sponsor? Learn more about sponsorship opportunities and the impact your partnership can make.
Don't just take our word for it
"The allotted for each presentation was great. The speakers provided some points of insight and great ideas to implement during sessions. Having speakers who are leaders in their field and bring a wealth of knowledge are greatly appreciated."
"Being an independent NILD educational therapist gives me flexibility in my schedule, but I also love being able to connect with people at the conferences."
"You feel like you're in a family when you go to conferences. The ladies are very sisterly. You can count on them to have really great ideas, plus they are willing to share."
"The sessions were topics I'd been wanting to learn more about for a while."
"I went to the conference in November. It was amazing, restorative and inspired me to leave my job to do NILD Educational Therapy on my own."
"NILD conferences are great. You get introduced to new ideas from NILD, plus learn how other educational therapists are using the tools and methodologies in their therapy practices."
"Conference was exactly what I needed and met many specific needs as a therapist."
"I have gained a better understanding of effective EF coaching and how to better support my students and fellow educators."