Dent:Blend is a one-afternoon, community powered experience (modeled after the national Dent conference) that brings together thoughtful leaders from around the Mid-Atlantic for a unique experience to explore our future and our past through the lens of innovative leadership and creativity. We host it at No. 303 (formerly Common House Richmond) where we can unplug and immerse ourselves in all that Richmond, VA has to offer.

We're excited to return for the TENTH year of Dent:Blend! We'll be back with our friends at No. 303 for an impactful afternoon oasis of ideas that one first-time attendee said was, "like I'm on another world being here. Really incredible."

Remember: all Dent:Blend Alumni and Dent Conference (Santa Fe) 2027 registrants attend for free!

Schedule overview (subject to change):

Thursday, November 19
1 - 3:30 PM, followed by reception

Exact schedule subject to change

Common House Richmond, 303 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220 — First Floor

1:00 -1:05 PM Welcome

1:05 -1:35 PM BOLD LEADERSHIP: A fireside chat between bold leaders who in five years transformed their organizations. Maeve Jones and Nathaniel Shaw, executive directors of The Poe Museum and Firehouse Theatre respectively will interview one another to discuss organizational evolution, legacy, mission and more. From a 100th anniversary illuminating works to a full dedication to creating new ones, these two leaders are remaking the rules.

1:35 -1:40 PM 5 Min Break

1:40 - 2:10 PM THE NEED FOR BOLD IDEAS: A tag-team set of two presentations on changing the game for those with disabilities and their families. ConnectIDD’s Michael Thomas will present on the current state and future state for those with disabilities and those trying to change the system from the inside. Next, Ingrid Harding with Sarah‘s Acres will show how rethinking community so that those with disabilities aren’t just housed but valued and engaged. Together they will demonstrate the importance of bold ideas and lived experiences to create meaningful change with those with disabilities. 

2:10 - 3:00 PM Activities (see below)

3:00 - 3:30 PM BUILDING BOLD COMMUNITIES: How do you build an entire community out of people all trying to “dent the universe?” One conversation, intriguing talk, bottle of wine, and event at a time. Dent founders Steve Broback and Jason Preston talk with Dent:Blend Richmond founder Dean Browell on building a community where the people on stage are also in the seat next to you. What has been going on in Santa Fe, Sun Valley, under the sea and in a Magic Castle that keeps these people coming back and sharing ideas?

3:30 PM Closing and Join us for drinks upstairs!

We can't wait for you to join us there!