The 2026 Urban Assembly SEL Symposium: SEL At Work

The Urban Assembly SEL Symposium is back for its 9th year! Join us to hear from Social Emotional Learning experts from across the country.

In an era defined by rapid change, automation, and evolving definitions of success, human skills have never been more essential. The 9th Annual Urban Assembly SEL Symposium will explore how Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) serves as the bridge between education and the workforce — helping students, educators, and professionals alike cultivate the empathy, resilience, and collaboration that sustain meaningful careers. We will also highlight how SEL builds social capital — the relationships, networks, and trust that expand access to opportunity — and how 21st-century human skills like relationship skills, social awareness and responsible decision making power success in an evolving economy.

This year’s symposium, SEL at Work: Building the Human Skills that Drive Careers convenes educators, industry partners, policymakers, and youth development leaders to examine how SEL transforms the way we teach, lead, and work. Through engaging keynotes, interactive workshops, and real-world case studies, participants will discover practical strategies to strengthen SEL implementation, align it with career readiness goals, and create learning environments that mirror the demands of today’s human-centered workplaces.

Together, we’ll explore how fostering emotional intelligence, teamwork, and self-awareness in schools and organizations leads not only to stronger professional outcomes — but also to more equitable, connected, and thriving communities.

Attendees can expect:

- Interactive Workshops: Immerse yourself in hands-on workshops designed to provide practical tools and techniques for integrating SEL into various aspects of the school community.

- Student Panel Discussions: Participate in dynamic panel discussions featuring UA students.

- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for fostering social-emotional skill development. Forge new connections, exchange ideas, and build a network of support that extends beyond this event.

- Applicable Resources: Walk away with tools, resources, and practices that you can apply to your work with students and adults immediately.

- Inspiring Keynote Address: Be inspired by a keynote address from Marc Brackett offering insights into the transformative power of social-emotional learning and our role in bringing it to the forefront.

In addition:

- Breakfast and Lunch will be provided.

Schedule Coming Soon!!

Breakout Sessions Coming Soon!

We look forward to seeing you on March 13th!