GRIT Summit 2026:GRIT City
About the GRIT Summit
Date: March 6, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Ent Center for the Arts at UCCS
Address: 5225 N Nevada Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80918
The Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience is proud to present the third annual GRIT Conference, GRIT Summit 2026: GRIT City. This energizing one-day event brings together community members, seasoned GRIT Coaches, and newcomers to explore the power of resilience in action. Through engaging sessions and collaborative dialogue, participants will discover how the GRIT Program builds stronger individuals and communities – laying the foundation for a city rooted in growth, resilience, and transformation.
Interested in Becoming a Sponsor for the GRIT Conference, Click Here!
Event Schedule
Below is a tentative schedule of the event. This is subject to change so check in for updates!
8:30 AM – Doors Open
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM – Jennifer Sobanet: Chancellor of UCCS, Opening Remarks
9:15 AM – 10:00 AM – Leah Davis Withrow: Curator of History, Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum – The Spirit of Colorado Springs Through Time
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM – Brian Hall: Former Foreign Service Officer – From Diplomacy to Life: Practicing Grit Through Connection
10:45 AM – 11:00 AM – Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Paul Yankey: UCCS College of Business – Just Keep Swimming: The Story Isn’t Over
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Lunch Break (not provided): University Village across the road has several lunch options.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Kristen Christy: Trauma Survivor – Resilience after Trauma
2:30 PM – 2:45 PM – Break
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM – Aja Black: Performer and Resilience Expert – The Meaning-Makers: Creativity and the Art of Resilience
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM – Nicole Weis: Closing Remarks
Special GRIT Live Offering for Summit Attendees!
Dates: February 27th & April 3rd, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Location: Lane Center for Academic Health Sciences at UCCS
Address: 4863 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
As part of GRIT Summit 2026: GRIT City, attendees have the exclusive opportunity to participate in the GRIT Live Training for just $15 – a special rate available only to summit registrants, saving $10 off the regular price. This immersive training experience introduces the core principles of the GRIT Program, empowering individuals to build resilience, foster growth, and strengthen their communities.
GRIT Live registration options are available when registering for the GRIT Summit!
Featuring Keynote Speakers
Jennifer Sobanet, Leah Withrow, Brian Hall, Paul Yankey, Kristen Christy, & Aja Black
What to Expect
Connect in a Resilient Community:
Become part of a dynamic network of individuals driven by a shared commitment to resilience, growth, and community impact. Exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, and collaborate with others who are shaping the future of GRIT City.
Inspiring Keynote Experiences:
Hear from thought leaders and changemakers who will challenge and motivate you with fresh perspectives and practical tools. These sessions are designed to spark action and deepen your understanding of resilience in everyday life.
Empower Others Through GRIT:
Learn how to use the core principles of the GRIT Program to support and uplift those around you. Whether you’re guiding a team, mentoring peers, or building community resilience, these transformative techniques will help you foster growth and success in others – making GRIT City stronger, together.
Engage in Hands-On Learning:
Take part in interactive sessions that go beyond theory, offering real-world tools and strategies to strengthen your resilience. Whether you’re new to GRIT or a seasoned coach, you’ll leave with insights ready to implement in your everyday journey.
Who Should Come?
-
Resilience-Focused Professionals
Educators, healthcare workers, emergency responders, and public service leaders—anyone whose work thrives on strength, adaptability, and personal growth. -
Growth-Minded Individuals
People from all walks of life who are passionate about self-discovery, building resilience, and embracing a mindset of continuous improvement. -
GRIT Program Explorers
New to GRIT? This summit is the perfect starting point to learn foundational strategies and begin your journey into resilience-building. -
Experienced GRIT Coaches & Practitioners
Seasoned GRIT leaders looking to sharpen their skills, explore advanced techniques, and connect with fellow coaches in a thriving community. -
Community Builders & Influencers
Nonprofit leaders, team managers, and mental wellness advocates who are driving change and inspiring others to grow through resilience. -
Students & Emerging Leaders
Aspiring professionals and young changemakers eager to build a strong foundation in personal development and leadership through GRIT.
Registration
Admission Fee
Early Bird Special: $30
After Feb 13th: $40
Add Discounted GRIT Live Training: +$15 per person
Join Us!
Join this transformative journey and take your first step toward mastering resilience with the GRIT Program. We invite you to a day of insightful learning, personal growth, and meaningful community connection.
Together, let’s embrace resilience and unlock our full potential!
Event Sponsors
