| Time | Summary |
|---|---|
|
7:30-8:15 am |
Check In & Light Breakfast |
|
8:15-9:00 am |
Conference Welcome |
|
9:00-10:00 am |
Keynote Speaker: James Lawrence, The Iron Cowboy |
|
10:00-10:25 am |
Networking |
|
10:30-12:05 pm |
Breakout Sessions 1 & 2 |
|
12:10-12:45 pm |
Lunch |
|
12:50-2:25 pm |
Breakout Sessions 3 & 4 |
|
2:35-3:30 pm |
Final Keynote |
James Lawrence - better known as the Iron Cowboy - is a world-renowned speaker, bestselling author, and endurance athlete who redefined human potential by completing 50 Ironmans in 50 days across all 50 states - and then doing the unthinkable - 100 full-distance triathlons in 100 consecutive days.
Before becoming the greatest endurance athlete in history, James was a successful entrepreneur, running a thriving mortgage company and helping hundreds of clients build wealth through homeownership and strategic refinancing. That same relentless mindset that powered him through thousands of miles now fuels his ventures in multi-family real estate and ownership of Crumbl Cookie franchises.
He’s been named one of Sports Illustrated’s “Fittest 50,” featured in two acclaimed documentaries, and honored alongside icons like LeBron James and Conor McGregor. But James’s story isn’t just about athletic records - it’s about purpose, resilience, and refusing to settle for average.
What is the purpose of the K-16 Alliance Counselor Conference?
The K-16 Alliance Counselor Conference is designed to strengthen connections, collaboration, and community among secondary and post-secondary counselors and partners to better support student pathways from education to careers in the Mountainland Region of Utah.
Who should attend this conference?
This conference is intended for school counselors, college advisors, CTE specialists, administrators, and education partners within the K-16 Alliance.
Who is hosting the conference?
The conference is hosted through the K-16 Alliance in partnership with Utah Valley University, Mountainland Technical College, and participating region school districts and charter schools.
How can I register for the conference?
Registration will be available at the registration link above starting Tuesday, January 20th 2026 The registration cost is $60 per person. Participants may register and pay for large groups or individually via credit card. For UVU attendees index transfer is available. For registration questions or assistance please email [email protected]
What does the day’s schedule look like?
The conference is a full-day event beginning with check-in and a light breakfast, followed by opening updates, a keynote speaker, four breakout session blocks, lunch, and a closing session in the Grand Ballroom.
How many breakout sessions can I attend?
Attendees can participate in up to four breakout sessions throughout the day, selecting sessions that best align with their interests and professional roles.
Will there be time for networking?
Yes. Dedicated breaks, light breakfast, lunch, vendor visits, and transition times are built into the schedule to encourage collaboration and networking.
Who is the keynote speaker?
The keynote speaker is James Lawrence, known as the Iron Cowboy, a world-renowned endurance athlete, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.
What will the keynote focus on?
James Lawrence’s keynote will focus on resilience, leadership, purpose, and pushing past perceived limits—messages that align closely with counselor leadership and student advocacy.
Where can I park?
Conference guests can park in any of the “L” yellow lots free of charge for the conference.
PLEASE NOTE:
Do NOT park in the LDS Institute Lot, UVU parking garage, or any UVU staff lots. Participants are encouraged to carpool where possible or take the Frontrunner to the Orem station with a short walk across the pedestrian bridge to main campus.
Where does check-in take place?
Check-in and breakfast will take place in the Ballroom Commons, with general sessions held in surrounding classrooms and meeting spaces.
Will meals be provided?
Yes. A light breakfast, buffet lunch, and a refillable drink cup are included as part of the conference experience.
What should I bring with me?
Attendees are encouraged to bring a notebook or device for taking notes, as well as a willingness to collaborate and share ideas.
Is professional development credit available?
Yes. The program includes a QR code for Midas or CEU credit information.
Will session materials be available after the conference?
Yes. Resources and follow-up materials will be available at The K-16 website.
Do I need to stay for the entire conference?
Attendees are encouraged to attend the full day to maximize benefit and receive Midas or CEU credit.
Who can I contact if I have questions before the conference?
Please reach out to your LEA or institution K-16 Conference planning team representative with questions. This representative is an identified counselor in your district or a support member at your institution. Additional questions can be directed to Sam Jarman at [email protected].
