2026 GCEA 101st Annual Conference
Join us for our 2026 conference to network, learn, and celebrate education and educators in Graphic Communications!
Dates: July 19–22, 2026
Location: Pittsburg, KS at Pittsburg State University
The 2026 Conference Theme—ChatGCEA
Enduring | Embracing | Empowering
Travel Day/Welcome Reception: July 19
Presentations, workshops, and more: July 20 - 22
Plan to connect with friends and new peers, industry representatives,
and leaders, as we look towards the future of education
and graphic communications at our 2026 Graphic Communications Educators Conference!
This year's event focuses on how educators can build on timeless
foundations, embrace emerging technologies, and empower
the next generation of teachers and students. We are
seeking dynamic and conversation-driven presentations
that inspire meaningful discussions and provide practical
takeaways for attendees.
Interested in Presenting?
Learn more and submit your proposal HERE.
⚡️ Register now ⚡️for early bird pricing and book your travel. We will update the website shortly with our partner hotels, transportation options, and more as it evolves.
Questions? Reach out to pgsfmarketing@gmail.com. We look forward to welcoming you to this summer’s conference!
GCEA 100 Year Commemorative Book
Industry partners are invited to sponsor and participate in our 100 years celebration and book capturing the last century of the organization's membership, events, impact and evolution of Graphic Communications into today! Click here to learn more and be featured on a full or half page ad!
Pricing
You must be a member to attend conference. Click here to get started.
Full Conference & Gala
Early Bird Ticket (ends May 31):
$375
Regular Ticket:
$475
Enjoy all sessions, networking opportunities, and special events over three days.
Single-Day Passes
Monday Only:
$200
Tuesday Only:
$200
Ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience the conference highlights.
Spouse (Social Events Only):
$125
Includes access to social events so your guest can join in the celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Closest: Joplin JLN
• Approximately 25–30 minutes from Pittsburg
• Airline: United Airlines only (via SkyWest)
• Limited service with approximately two flights per day• Typical arrivals around 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM
• Conference transportation is expected to be available for this airport
Largest: Kansas City MCI*
• Approximately 2 hours 15–30 minutes from Pittsburg
• All major U.S. airlines
• 150+ flights per day
Other Airports serving the region:
• Approximately 1 hour 30–45 minutes away
• Airlines: American, Delta, United, Allegiant, Southwest• Service to major airline hubs with multiple daily flights.
• Approximately 1 hour 45–2 hours away
• Airlines: American, Delta, United, Allegiant, Breeze, Frontier
• Roughly 45–50 flights per day
• Extensive nonstop route options
• Approximately 2–2.25 hours from Pittsburg
• Airlines: American, Delta, United, Alaska, Frontier, Southwest, Sun Country
• Full-service airport with strong national connectivity
*Rental car required
Paul D. Von Holtz Conference Incentive Awards
GCEA will award various grants, using $500-$700 in total, to educators to support them in attending their first GCEA Annual Conference.
2026 Conference Schedule
See our amazing event and presentation schedule here.