These dynamic sessions will be featured during the 2026 ABMP School Forum!
Learn more about the event and register today: www.abmp.com/school-forum.
SESSION #1: KEYNOTE
Jarvis Leverson, The Morning Hero
“The Winning Formula: How to Beat Burnout and Build Unshakable Consistency”
This high-energy keynote delivers more than just inspiration—it delivers transformation. Discover how to eliminate time-wasting habits, build rock-solid routines, and structure the day to drive maximum results for you and your school. Using stories, frameworks, and practical tools, Leverson guides educators to shift from chaotic hustle to focused execution so they can win every day—and still be done by lunch.
SESSION #2
Kristin Coverly, ABMP Director of Professional Education; Kimberlee Melvin, Instructor, Alaska Career College; and Sarah Walker, LMT
“Adaptive Teaching: Strategies to Support Students with Disabilities”
This compelling session opens with candid insights from recent graduate Sarah Walker, a visually impaired massage practitioner, alongside her instructor, Kimberlee Melvin of Alaska Career College. Together, they share the collaborative strategies they used to adapt Walker’s learning experience, support her needs, and transform potential challenges into success. As the discussion expands to include accessibility, resources, and support for students with a wide range of disabilities, attendees will gain practical insights they can immediately apply to their programs.
SESSION #3
Les Sweeney, ABMP President
“Where We Are: The Massage Profession, Regulation, and What Truly Matters”
Participate in this critical discussion of the state of the massage profession and critical legislative topics impacting schools. Session topics will be chosen closer to the event date to ensure we’re addressing the most timely and relevant issues.
SESSION #4
Darren Buford, Vice President, ABMP and Communications
“Bridging the Gap: What Employers and CE Providers Say Students Still Need”
Are your graduates ready for what comes next? Honest, real-world feedback from employers and continuing education providers lays the groundwork for this essential group discussion on preparing new practitioners for success beyond campus.
SESSION #5
Sherrie Tennessee, Director of Education, SpaSOS
“Wellness Technology Trends and Schools: AI, Robots, and Beyond”
Gain cutting-edge wellness technology insights and explore how AI and technology tools can revolutionize school processes, student training, and career preparation.
SESSION #6
Carrie Perkins, Qnity Director of Learning and Development
“State of Wellness Schools and Graduates”
In this short and impactful session, you’ll hear key data points from our partner, Qnity for Schools, on the financial challenges facing the next generation of wellness schools and graduates. Building on the most recent industry data, you’ll learn critical industry statistics and discover how educators can help the next generation of professionals create sustainable and prosperous careers.
SESSION #7
Christe Bomber, Beauty Academies Director of Compliance and School Grants
“School Grants & Compliance: How to Access, Manage, and Report with Confidence”
Learn the essentials of accessing, managing, and reporting school grants with confidence. This session covers best practices for compliance, effective grant management, and accurate reporting to help schools maximize funding opportunities.
SESSION #8
Kristin Coverly, ABMP Director of Professional Education
“The Un-Session: Your Topics, Your Questions, Your Session”
Welcome to the session tailored to your specific needs! How does it work? Attendees submit topics for discussion, the group votes, and the vote determines the session content. A structured discussion format allows participants to break into groups to ask questions, share expertise, and learn from each other on topics that are important to them. Join us for this dynamic experience that truly is your session.