| ArtPride New Jersey proudly announces the return of the Thrive Arts Conference, the state’s premier professional development event for the arts sector. Taking place on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lewis Arts Complex at Princeton University, Thrive convenes hundreds of executive, marketing, and development professionals from across New Jersey for a day of learning, collaboration, and forward-thinking dialogue. Held biennially and produced in partnership with the Lewis Center for the Arts at Princeton University, with support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Thrive has grown into the largest convening dedicated to addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities within New Jersey’s cultural community. As the leading voice and advocate for the arts in the state, ArtPride New Jersey continues to position Thrive as a critical platform for shaping the future of the sector—bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators to exchange ideas and drive impact. “This conference reflects ArtPride New Jersey’s role as a convener and catalyst for the arts sector,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey. “Thrive is where we come together to address challenges and collectively reimagine what’s possible for the arts in New Jersey.” |
| Dynamic Keynote to Inspire Bold Leadership Headlining the 2026 conference is Kishshana Palmer, an author, international speaker, trainer, and coach with more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, marketing, and talent management who helps leaders build high-performing teams. Kishshana is CEO of ManageMint, Inc., an organizational development firm dedicated to helping everyday leaders live well and lead well. The firm’s work centers on equity, social justice, and practical solutions for today’s organizations. She is also founder of The Rooted Collaborative, a global community focused on the growth and development of women leaders of color in the social sector. A trusted voice on collaborative leadership and talent development, Palmer brings both strategy and soul to her work. Known for her bold, no-nonsense approach, she challenges individuals and organizations to move beyond expectations and create meaningful impact on their own terms. Through her speaking, coaching, and podcast, ManageMint Made Easy, she equips everyday leaders with tools to align how they lead with why they lead, resulting in stronger teams, clearer purpose, and measurable outcomes. |
| Addressing the Sector’s Most Pressing Issues The Thrive Arts Conference 2026 will offer timely sessions designed to meet the moment, including tracking financial trends, building audiences, leveraging technological advancements, and strengthening community partnerships. Attendees can expect a robust day of programming focused on actionable strategies, peer exchange, and sector-wide collaboration, all grounded in the understanding that the nonprofit arts sector is a powerful economic driver in New Jersey, generating $692.1 million annually, supporting nearly 13,000 jobs, and contributing $156.6 million in tax revenue. Thrive Arts Conference 2026 Thursday, June 25, 2026 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Lewis Arts Complex at Princeton University Additional details, including registration information and session details, are available at ArtPrideNJ.org/thrive. |