Central Valley Education Summit 2026
An engaging day of thought leadership, innovation, and networking in the education space.
About This Event
Agenda
Breakfast, Networking & Welcome
Light breakfast & coffee
CEU #1: Steelcase Libraries
Break
Stretch, refuel, move rooms if needed.
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.
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.
CEU #2: Smith System
Designing for Early Childhood Education Environments
Project Spotlight #1: Teter Architects
Project Spotlight #2: Paul Halajian Architects
Closing Remarks
Featured Speakers
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, Lemoore College
James leads efforts to expand educational access, strengthen workforce development, and support student success across California’s Central Valley.
Joshua Allen
Director, Maintenance & Operations, Lemoore College
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
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
National Accounts Manager Vertical Markets, Steelcase
Steve partners with clients to deliver tailored workplace solutions that support evolving organizational needs and environments.
Jami Moyer
Senior Learning Consultant, Steelcase
Jami helps organizations design and implement learning environments that enhance engagement, collaboration, and performance.
Emily Islip
Product Portfolio Manager, Smith System
Emily is responsible for overseeing and aligning product strategy, development, and performance across Smith System's product portfolio.
Alyssa Armesto
Vice President, Central Valley, Tangram
Alyssa leads and oversees Tangram's Central Valley projects by utilizing strategic workplace design by partnering with clients to design environments that drive productivity, performance, and employee satisfaction.
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