Thank you for your interest in attending the 19th Annual Executive Directors’ Leadership Exchange (EDLE)!

EDLE will be an in-person event from December 4 to 7, 2024, at the Westin Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel.

EDLE is an opportunity for Executive Directors from NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates across the U.S. to: 

  • Engage in peer learning and information-sharing to sharpen individual leadership skills; 
  • Attend sessions that can help to strengthen organizational programs, advocacy efforts, and operations; and 
  • Network with NAMI colleagues from across the country. 

The EDLE Working Committee and NAMI National staff are currently developing a program that reflects the interests and needs of NAMI State Organization and NAMI Affiliate Executive Directors. This process is underway, and the agenda and other key event information will be shared as they become available.

Before you begin your registration, please read the following important information about the event: 

  • Due to limited capacity, only NAMI State Organization or NAMI Affiliate Executive Directors, permanent or interim, paid or volunteer, are eligible to register for this event.
    • Note: Registration for invited speakers and limited NAMI National Staff will be handled separately. Please email us at [email protected] for further information. 
  • Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis with a limit of 125 Executive Directors. There is no registration fee for this event. 
  • Once capacity is reached, Executive Directors will be prompted to fill out a waitlist form. We will do our best to accommodate as many people as possible.
  • The EDLE kicks off with an opening reception on Wednesday evening starting at 6:00 PM and ends on Saturday morning after breakfast. Plan to arrive Wednesday during the day and leave Saturday. Please note, there is no scheduled programming on Saturday. 
    • If you are interested in attending Capitol Hill Day, you must opt-in at the time of registration. st opt-in at the time of registration.
      • December 4: breakfast in Red Bud from 7:30-9 am
      • December 3: briefing in Red Bud from 2-5 pm
  • EDLE attendees are responsible for the cost of airfare and travel incidentals, including transportation. 
  • Some meals during the EDLE will be covered by NAMI, including breakfast, lunch, the reception on Wednesday, and dinner on Thursday or Friday.
  • NAMI will cover the cost of your hotel room for Wednesday through Friday nights at the Westin Hotel. If you are attending Capitol Hill Day, NAMI will additionally cover the cost of your hotel room for Tuesday night. To book your room, please complete the hotel form when you register. You cannot make reservations for the hotel on your own.
    • Note: If you choose to stay at the hotel longer than the specified dates, you will be responsible for covering these costs. Please reach out to [email protected] if you are planning on arriving earlier or staying later at the Westin Hotel.