Association of Children's Museums InterActivity Conference 2026
April 21-23, 2026
San Diego, CA
https://childrensmuseums.org/interactivity/
Booth
The NISE Network will have a booth in the ACM Marketplace exhibit hall.
- Booth #18
- Tuesday, April 21, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 22 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Booth Handouts
Download the quick summaries of NISE Network to learn more about all our projects past and present
Concurrent Sessions
Comunalidad in Action: Catalyzing Culturally Affirming STEM Practices
Thursday, April 23, 10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m.
In this session, presenters will share their journeys and insights from their collaborations co-creating culturally sustaining informal STEM experiences with Latiné communities using the Comunalidad Framework. This session supports museum professionals in expanding beyond practices focused solely on access or relevance toward practices that support community well-being and resilience.
- Cecilia Garibay, PhD, Garibay Group (moderator)
- Felipe Peña III, Children’s Museum of Brownsville
- Anthony McWilliams, 9th Street
- Tiffany Espinosa, Children’s Museum Houston
- Jennifer Gastelum, Creative Community
- Slides (PDF)
Rooted in Belonging: Learning through Connection
Thursday, April 23, 1:15 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
A sense of belonging is essential for learning, especially in STEM, where many children, families, and communities may not feel represented. Join us to explore the dimensions of belonging and how we can intentionally foster environments where all feel seen, valued, and included. Hear examples of how to foster feelings of belonging through innovative programs, culturally relevant STEM experiences, and inclusive staff and volunteer training and support. Presenters will share practical strategies and real-world case studies. Participants will have time to reflect, share experiences, and leave with tools to strengthen belonging across all areas of their work.
Delia Meza, Director of Family Learning and Community Partnerships, New York Hall of Science
Catherine McCarthy, NISE Network Director, Arizona State University
Darrell Porcello, Director of National STEM Networks, Children's Creativity Museum
Vivian White, Director of Free Choice Learning, NASA Night Sky Network, Astronomical Society of the Pacific
