Central Valley Education Summit 2026
CONFERENCE

Central Valley Education Summit 2026

An engaging day of thought leadership, innovation, and networking in the education space.

Wednesday, April 15, 2026
8:00 AM PDT
Tangram Fresno
75 spots remaining

About This Event

Join us for an engaging day of thought leadership, innovation, and networking. Gain valuable insights from industry experts, participate in CEU-accredited sessions, and connect with fellow professionals in the education and design space.

Agenda

8:00 AM – 8:35 AM

Breakfast, Networking & Welcome

Light breakfast & coffee

8:35 AM – 9:25 AM

CEU #1: Steelcase Libraries

9:25 AM – 9:35 AM

Break

Stretch, refuel, move rooms if needed.

9:35 AM – 10:05 AM

Project Share: Sierra High School Library Renovation

A project walkthrough highlighting key challenges, design solutions, and lessons learned from this collaborative Central Valley education project.

10:05 AM – 10:55 AM

Panel Discussion: From Vision to Reality: Collaboration in Central Valley Education Projects

A moderated discussion featuring leaders across education, design, construction, and industry partners exploring how successful education environments move from concept to completion through collaboration.

10:55 AM – 11:45 AM

CEU #2 Smith System

Personalized Student Learning: Designing Learning Environments that Support All Learners

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM

Project Spotlight #1: Teter Architects

12:15 PM – 12:30 PM

Project Spotlight #2: Paul Halajian Architects

12:30 PM – 12:35 PM

Closing Remarks

Featured Speakers

Marisa Sergnese, MEd

Marisa Sergnese, MEd

Applied Research & Learning Consultant, Steelcase Learning

Marisa Sergnese, MEd is an experienced education leader who specializes in creating learner-centered, engaging, future-ready learning environments.

James Preston

President, West Hills College Lemoore

James leads efforts to expand educational access, strengthen workforce development, and support student success across California’s Central Valley.

Joshua Allen

Director, Maintenance & Operations, West Hills College Lemoore

Joshua oversees campus facilities, infrastructure, and operational services to support a safe, efficient, and high-quality learning environment.

Matt Davies

Vice President, Preconstruction, Harris Construction

Matt leads project planning, budgeting, and early-stage coordination to ensure successful and cost-effective project delivery.

Tony Avila

Managing Principal, Darden Architects

Tony leads design strategy and firm operations, guiding projects that deliver innovative, functional, and community-focused architectural solutions.

Leslie Rau

Leslie Rau

Principal, Interior Design, Darden Architects

Leslie leads the creation of thoughtful, functional, and visually engaging interior environments that enhance user experience and support project goals.

Steve Knippen

Steve Knippen

National Accounts Manager Vertical Markets, Steelcase

Steve partners with clients to deliver tailored workplace solutions that support evolving organizational needs and environments.

Jami Moyer

Jami Moyer

Senior Learning Consultant, Steelcase

Jami helps organizations design and implement learning environments that enhance engagement, collaboration, and performance.

Emily Islip

Emily Islip

Product Portfolio Manager, Smith Systems

Alyssa Armesto

Alyssa Armesto

Vice President, Central Valley, Tangram

Proudly Sponsored By

Steelcase
Smith Systems

Attend This Event

Only 75 spots left for attendees!

Date & Time

Wednesday, April 15, 2026
8:00 AM PDT – 12:00 PM PDT

Venue

Tangram Fresno

North Palm Avenue, Fresno, California

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