Name: Balancing Inclusion and Compliance: Strategies for Meeting AEE Standards Amid Political Change
Start: 2026-10-21T10:30:00-0700
End: 2026-10-21T12:00:00-0700

Main Conference: Tuesday October 20 - Thursday, October 22, 2026

Preconference: Monday October 19 - Tuesday, October 20, 2026

*Schedule subject to change.

Balancing Inclusion and Compliance: Strategies for Meeting AEE Standards Amid Political Change

Wednesday October 21, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT

Clark

Expanded research into human dimensions of risk management has revealed that psychological safety and a sense of belonging are central to improving program learning outcomes and strengthening an organization’s safety culture. AEE has integrated these insights into its accreditation framework, which includes seven standards that address psychological safety, diversity, and inclusion. AEE also requires accredited organizations to comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The current sociopolitical climate has created some conflict for organizations and their ability to comply with and report on the applicable standards. This workshop will review the seven standards that address inclusion, diversity, and psychological safety and will discuss various approaches organizations are taking to navigate them within their local contexts. Attendees will consider how to implement prudent legal strategies that continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of staff and participants

Speakers

Margaret Kelso

Risk Management Director, Cornerstone Safety Group

Teresa Jennings, LCSW, LAC, is based in Durango, Colorado, and serves as the Program Director at La Plata Youth Services, a nonprofit supporting youth through mental health, mentorship, and diversion programs. She is also a Mental Health Advisor & Community Wellness Manager with Cornerstone... Read More →

Amy Smallwood

Assistant Dean of Student Affairs; Affiliate faculty, Colorado Mountain College

Amy has worked in outdoor education for over 25 years primarily as an outdoor education professor and administrator. She also teaches wilderness medicine courses for Desert Mountain Medicine, avalanche courses through AIARE, and is an active member of her local search and rescue group... Read More →

Wednesday October 21, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Clark 909 N Hayden Island Dr, Portland, OR 97217

Program Administration, Breakout Session

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2026 Wilderness Risk Management Conference

Margaret Kelso

Amy Smallwood

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2026 Wilderness Risk Management Conference

Margaret Kelso

Amy Smallwood

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