2026 Annual Session Special Events

See below for details on the Welcome Event, Wellness Activities and the Leadership Event. 

Welcome Event 

Dollywood 

This event is open to all full registered attendees and those that purchased the Welcome Event ticket. Dinner will be provided. Busing will be provided. 

Service, community and making positive change are essential to the heart of NEAFCS, and equally important to Tennesseans. As Extension educators, our focus is people – the clientele we serve, our friends, and most importantly, our families. This passion is found at the heart of Dollywood’s mission and values. Come and celebrate decades of love, family, and Appalachian culture with us as we embark on an adventure to Dollywood to make memories worth repeating. More than an amusement park, Dollywood invites guests to learn, grow and take some of the East Tennessee Appalachian culture home with you. Experience the harvest festival providing individuals the opportunity to taste delightful Appalachian flavors at over thirty food vendors, be immersed in the beauty of East Tennessee’s fall colors in flora, fauna and vegetables and hear the sweet strains of classic Tennessee music – including Southern gospel, county and bluegrass! Engross yourselves in our southern traditions and heritage while experiencing hands-on learning at Dollywood’s exhibits, shows and live demonstrations. From glassblowing, blacksmithing, an Eagle sanctuary, homemade brooms, candle making, storytelling, a working grist mill, and more, there is truly something for everyone to learn! Enjoy this multi-sensory experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, enlightened and ready to return to our states to build our communities, increase service and engage with volunteers to make lifelong changes for the better. 

Wellness Activities

Tuesday, September 29th

  • Walk/Run - 6:30 AM. More details to come. 
  • Line Dancing  - 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
  • Tai Chi - 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM

Wednesday, September 30th

  • Walk/Run - 6:30 AM. More details to come. 
  • Drums Alive - two sessions: 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM & 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM

Thursday, October 1st

  • Walk/Run - 6:30 AM. More details to come. 
  • Chair Yoga - 6:30 – 7:00 AM
  • Stay Strong Stay Healthy - 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM

Rocky-Top Relaxation Room

Details coming soon. 

Leadership Event (Invitation Only)

Join us for an engaging and interactive Leadership Event designed for Presidents, Mentoring Groups, and National Officers. This session blends hands-on learning with real-world leadership insight.
Participants will take part in a fun, team-based leadership challenge using Mr. Potato Head, focused on strengthening communication, active listening, and collaboration. This activity will highlight how clear direction, trust, and teamwork drive successful outcomes.
The session will also feature a special guest, Joan Cronan, former University of Tennessee Women’s Athletics Director and longtime colleague of Pat Summitt. She will share leadership lessons drawn from her experience in collegiate athletics and her work alongside one of the most respected leaders in sports.
This session offers a unique opportunity to build practical leadership skills while gaining inspiration from proven leadership excellence.