Hawkeye ATD Turns 50!
Date: July 15th, 2026
Location: Person, Hilton Garden Inn, 4640 N River Blvd NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52411
Five decades ago, a group of passionate learning and development professionals came together with a shared belief that investing in people is the highest calling of an organization. That built Hawkeye ATD and it still drives everything we do today. Now it is time to celebrate!
OUR LEGACY
For 50 years, Hawkeye ATD has been the heartbeat of the talent development community in our region. We have championed instructional designers, facilitators, coaches, HR practitioners and learning leaders at every stage of their careers. We have weathered change, embraced innovation, and most importantly shown up for each other. This milestone belongs to every member, past and present, who has been a part of our journey.
WHY THIS MILESTONE MATTERS
Fifty years is no small feet for any professional association. I t speaks to the enduring relevance of our mission and the deep commitment of our community. In a field defined by growth and transformation, HawkeyeATD has been a constant, a place to learn, to lead, and to belong. We gather on July 15th not just to look back but to commit to the next 50 years of growing together.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Doors open at 4:00, come early, grab a snack, and start reconnecting.
Activities kick off at 5:00pm with an evening full of fun and community spirit:
- Retro Game Challenge: Put your ATD knowledge to the test with a fun throwback game inspired by 50 years of talent development history. Friendly competition is encouraged!
- Panel Discussion: What has changed? What has remained consistent? What did ATD look like years ago?
- Networking & Connection: whether you are a founding era member or joined this year, this is your chance to swap stories, share wisdom, and build relationships that extend beyond the evening.
- Snacks and Refreshments: Enjoy appetizers and refreshments as we toast to 50 incredible years. Good food, great people.
A MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY
Hawkeye ATD has always been more than a professional organization, it is a community of people who believe in the power of human potential. Thank you for 50 extraordinary years. The best chapters are still ahead.
REGISTRATION
The celebration is our thank you to the people who made us who we are. Admission is free for all past and present Hawkeye ATD members.
We kindly ask that you register in advance so we can plan accordingly. Your RSVP makes a real difference in helping us put on a great event.
