Upward: Communicating with Impact

January 7-8, 2027 - Rosemont, IL

Registration will be open September 12 - December 6, 2026, and space is limited.

UpwaRD: Communicating with Impact is a 1.5-day interactive program led by Dardis Communication designed to help sports and performance dietitians build confidence and strengthen their communication skills in professional settings.

Effective communication is essential when working with athletes, coaches, and performance staff. This program focuses on developing practical skills to improve clarity, confidence, and presence in both planned and spontaneous conversations.

Through hands-on activities, video-based practice and review, peer and Dardis facilitator feedback, and guided practice, participants will increase self-awareness and gain tools they can immediately apply in their day-to-day roles.

What You’ll Gain

  • Strengthen professional presence, personal brand, and first impressions 

  • Build confidence in communication across a variety of settings 

  • Improve clarity and effectiveness in both written and verbal communication 

  • Apply structured approaches to high-impact conversations 

  • Increase self-awareness through feedback and video review 

Attendees can expect a highly interactive and applied learning environment with opportunities to practice and receive feedback, practical tools that can be immediately implemented and a supportive setting focused on skill development.

Dardis Communications is a lead in professional coaching to help clients accelerate their careers, specializing in executive training and development. They work with individuals and organizations all over the world teaching them to "speak as well as they think​.”

The Dardis executive coaches guide thousands of professionals to stronger career skills, increased confidence and improved business results. Companies such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo partner with Dardis to enhance the skills of their teams.

Click here to learn more about Dardis Communication.

    • Sports and performance dietitians at any stage of their career.

    • Professionals looking to build confidence in communication and presentation.

    • Individuals seeking to strengthen their professional presence.

    • Anyone who wants to communicate more effectively with athletes, coaches, and staff.

  • Date: The afternoon of Thursday, January 7 and full day on Friday, January 8, 2027.

    Length: 1.5 days of interactive training and practice

    Registration Fee: TBD (includes workshop programming and breakfast and lunch on day two.)

    Location: The Rose Hotel - Rosemont, Illinois

    Hotel Block Information: The Rose Hotel
    5200 Pearl St, Rosemont, IL 60018
    (847) 260-4770
    $169/night
    This room block will close on December 8, 2026.

    If the registration fee presents a financial barrier, please contact Amy Freel, ASPDA Executive Director, at amy.freel@sportsrd.org.

Additional Questions?
Please contact Megan Hillabrand, ASPDA Events & Education Manager at megan.hillabrand@sportsrd.org or 812-369-4393.