Winter Institute & Lobby Day

The Council through our foundation LEAF, Inc. supports members by providing exceptional opportunities to expand and enrich their expertise and knowledge in the area of educational administration through statewide annual events. The Winter Institute offers keynote addresses by national experts in the fields of leadership, education, advocacy and related areas; opportunities for members to share best practices with colleagues through smaller sessions; an interactive discussion with the Commissioner of Education about New York State issues and initiatives; and networking for support and collegiality among members through social interaction, group discussions, meetings and workshops. The event also hosts an exhibit hall where companies, associations, organizations and foundations can connect with school leaders from across New York State.

2025 Winter Institute & Lobby Day
Expanding the Horizon:
The Promise of Public Education

March 2-4, 2025
Albany Capital Center
Albany, NY
Thanks to Title Sponsor Utica National Insurance Group!

Thank you for joining us at the 2025 Winter Institute & Lobby Day. We learned, laughed and connected. See these highlights from the keynote sessions:

Sunday Opening Keynote Session
Hampton Bays Student Performance and Presidential Address with Lars Clemensen, Superintendent, Hampton Bays.
2025 Appreciation Award Presentation with Barbara J. Case, Superintendent, Spencer-Van Etten CSD. 
2024 Distinguished Service Award Presentation with Retired Life Member Dr. Clark J. Godshall.
- Thank You Partner Energia for sponsoring Sunday's Keynote presentation. 

Monday Morning Keynote Session
- 2025 NYS Superintendent of the Year Presentation with Dr. Raymond Sanchez, Superintendent, Public Schools of the Tarrytowns.
- 2025 Winter Institute Ignite Presentation with Dr. Lorna Lewis, Superintendent, Malverne UFSD.
- 2025 Winter Institute Ignite Presentation with Dr. Mike Doughty, Assistant Superintendent, NERIC, Capital Regional BOCES.
- Monday Morning Keynote Podcast with Superintendent Brian Graham, Grand Island.
- NYS Leaders of Color for Education Special Announcement with Superintendents Dr. Aurelia L. Henriquez, Port-Chester-Rye UFSD and Dr. Lizzette Ruiz-Giovinazzi, Nyack Public Schools. 

Tuesday Closing Keynote Session
- 2025 Past Presidents’ Scholarship Presentation with Kaitlin Ring, Elementary Principal, Southwestern CSD
- 2025 Dr. Mary Barter Scholarship Presentation with Darnell Douglas, School Counselor, Bethlehem CSD
- Thank You Partner Keenan & Associates for sponsoring this closing session. 

 A big shoutout to Utica National Insurance Group, the title sponsor, for making it all possible. Their support allows NYSCOSS to continue bringing together educators and leaders for these transformative events.

Call for Proposals

Our Education Session Call for Proposals portal for the 2025 Fall Leadership Summit will open in late spring. Final proposal submissions are due mid-June 2025. More details coming. 

Save the Date for Future Events  

  • 2025 Fall Leadership Summit
    September 28 - 30, 2025 
    Saratoga Hilton & Saratoga Springs City Center
    Saratoga Springs, NY

  • 2026 Winter Institute & Lobby Day
    March 1 - 3, 2026
    Albany Capital Center
    Albany, NY

  • 2026 Fall Leadership Summit
    September 27 - 29, 2026
    Saratoga Hilton & Saratoga Springs City Center
    Saratoga Springs, NY

  • 2027 Winter Institute & Lobby Day
    March 7 - 9, 2027
    Albany Capital Center
    Albany, NY

  • 2027 Fall Leadership Summit
    September 26 - 28, 2027
    Saratoga Hilton & Saratoga Springs City Center
    Saratoga Springs, NY

  • 2028 Winter Institute & Lobby Day
    March 5 - 7, 2028
    Albany Capital Center
    Albany, NY
The Council is committed to providing experiences and environments that are welcoming, inviting and user-friendly for all attendees. We recognize that some individuals may required specific accommodations to ensure their full and equal participation in our Winter Institute. Please contact us at 518.449.1063 should you need assistance. 


2025 Fall Leadership Summit

Advancing Innovation:  Leading and Learning at the Pace of Change

Saratoga Springs City Center and Saratoga Hilton
Saratoga Springs, NY 

September 28-30, 2025

Education Session Call for Proposals opens in late spring.
Event and housing registration opens June 2, 2025.

Thank You to Our Strategic Partners