CWR CONFERENCE 2026

Plenary Sessions

Thursday, October 15 | 8:50 – 10:05 a.m.

“Safe Harbor in a Crisis”

Presenter: Dan & Krista Stockman

When crisis strikes—whether a natural disaster, threat of violence, or even a crisis of faith—communicators are called to respond with clarity, confidence, and care. This plenary session will equip you to navigate high-pressure situations while engaging effectively with media, law enforcement, public safety officials, internal teams, and the broader community.

Led by a seasoned news reporter with 30 years of experience alongside a strategic communicator with two decades in crisis communication, this session offers practical insight and real-world perspective. Participants will leave with a foundational outline for a crisis communication plan, as well as a practical “go-bag” checklist to ensure readiness when it matters most.

Thursday, October 15 | 1:10 – 2:25 p.m.

“Building an AI Policy: Considerations & Frameworks”

Presenters: Angie Kessler, Brian Altenhofen, Donna Schmeichel, Dusty Krikau 

As artificial intelligence continues to shape the way organizations communicate and operate, establishing clear policies is increasingly important. In this plenary session, presenters will share the varied approaches they have taken to developing AI policies within their departments and congregations—some with policies already in place, others still in progress.

Learn about the key considerations that guided their work, the practical steps they followed, and the challenges they encountered along the way. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with panelists, exchange ideas, and begin outlining a thoughtful approach to creating their own AI policy.

Friday, October 16 | 10:00 – 10:45 p.m.

“Leaving the Harbor and Carrying the Story Forward with Courage”

As our time together comes to a close, “Leaving the Harbor and Carrying the Story Forward with Courage” offers a reflective and uplifting sending forth. This final session invites participants to gather the insights, skills, and inspiration of the conference and carry them back into their daily work with renewed purpose. Rooted in faith and guided by hope, we are called to move beyond the safety of the harbor—embracing the responsibility to tell meaningful stories with clarity, compassion, and courage in the places we serve.