I felt as if what was said during the conference was so validating for us—to have outside sources saying things about how important it is for organizations to prioritize youth voice and choice.
Zoë Auerbach, Program Manager, CHIME and Young Leaders
About the Conference
The 23rd annual Mentoring Matters Conference promises a half-day of invaluable insights, as speakers explore current trends, challenges, and best practices in mentoring and youth development.
This year's theme, 'Reimagining Youth Engagement,' highlights how mentoring relationships can build skills and confidence for young people to use their voice and be leaders.
Expert speakers
Panels and discussions will center on authentic relationship-driven approaches to making meaningful connections with young people through key strategies centered on mentoring.
Master Class
Connect and learn with an expert that will focus on a key strategy that increases student engagment and connections necessary for social, emotional and academic success.
Speakers
Keynote: Masterclass Expert
Rebecca Winthrop
Co-author of The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better
Rebecca Winthrop is a leading global authority on education, the director of the Center for Universal Education at Brookings, co-author of The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better, and an adjunct professor at Georgetown University.
She is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in life, work, and as an engaged citizen. She leads cutting-edge research and initiatives aimed at transforming education systems around the world to better support children's learning and development
Rebecca is a trusted advisor to both school communities and national and international organizations. Her expertise is sought by many, including parent networks, schools, district education leaders, governmental agencies, the United Nations, and Fortune 500 companies. She currently leads the Brookings Global Taskforce on AI in Education, and her work is centered on developing and advocating for evidence-based strategies that bring people together—families, educators, policymakers, and companies—to help children maximize their potential.
She holds a PhD from Columbia University’s Teachers College, an MA from its School of International and Public Affairs, and a BA from Swarthmore College.
Parent and Family Engagement Experts
Meet Our Conference Co-host
East Coast MENTOR Affiliate CEOs:
Kristan Allen
The Mentoring Partnership
2026 Sponsors
