Conference Schedule

*Session topics will be announced by the end of February. Schedule is subject to change.

Friday Evening, April 17, 2026

5:30 Registration/Check-In opens

6:15 Welcome – Introductions and Opening Remarks

6:30 My Publishing Story #1: a published author shares their publishing story.

6:45 Keynote: Karen Boss, Editor, Charlesbridge

7:45 Speaker Panel: Publishing Industry Insights & Faculty Wishlists

8:45 Offsite Mixer: Restaurant near conference venue & official hotel

Saturday, April 18, 2024

8:00 Registration/Check-In opens

8:15 New Attendee Orientation Session: Anna Myers and Helen Newton Is this your first SCBWI conference? New to the world of publishing for children? Our seasoned members will share their tips on making the most of your first conference.

9:00 Welcome – Introductions and Opening Remarks

9:15 My Publishing Story #2: a published author shares their publishing story.

9:30 General Session Presentation/Keynote: Darcy Pattison, Mim’s House Books.

10:10 Break

10:20 Door Prizes

10:30 My Publishing Story #3: a published author shares their publishing story.

10:45 General Session Presentation/Keynote: Joann Hill, Creative Director, Disney Hyperion

11:20 Jerry Bennett, U.S. Illustrator Coordinator, SCBWI

11:30 Gaye Sanders, Anna Myers Scholarship

11:45 Door Prizes

12:00-1:00 Lunch: included in registration

1:10 Door Prizes & Announcements

1:20 My Publishing Story #4: a published author shares their publishing story.

1:30 General Session Presentation/Keynote: Charlotte Wenger, Literary Agent, Prospect Agency

2:30 Breakout Craft Intensives #1

Karen Boss – Writing Craft/Publishing

Darcy Pattison – Indie Publishing

Joann Hill – Illustrators

3:30 Breakout Craft Intensives #2

Charlotte Wenger – Writing Craft/Publishing

Darcy Pattison – Indie Publishing

Joann Hill – Illustrators

4:30 My Publishing Story #5: a published author shares their publishing story.

4:45 Closing Remarks - Final Door Prizes.

5:00 SCBWI OK/AR Author Book Signings An opportunity to meet the authors of the books you purchased at the conference bookstore.

6:00 Post Conference Dinner: Mexicali Border Café: 14 W Reconciliation Way, Tulsa, OK 74103