21st Annual Maryland Women of Color Network Conference

Maryland Women of Color Network Annual Conference

Join us for the Maryland Women of Color Network Annual Conference on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM at the Bowie State University Student Center.

Co-sponsored by the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA), Maryland Department of Health (MDH), and Bowie State University, this annual statewide conference brings together professionals, advocates, community leaders, students, and partners committed to strengthening sexual violence prevention and culturally responsive practices.

The in-person conference provides a dynamic opportunity for participants from rape crisis and recovery centers, government agencies, faith-based and community-based organizations, and other sectors to connect, learn, share resources, and gain practical strategies that can be applied within their organizations and communities.

2026 Conference Theme

Hope in Action: Empowering Change, Transforming Communities

The Attendee Experience

Attendees can look forward to six informative workshops, an awards ceremony, meaningful networking and connection, and an interactive plenary session, “Shaping the Future of Sexual Violence Prevention.”

Come prepared to learn, connect, engage, and turn hope into action.

Space is limited to 200 attendees, and previous conferences have sold out. We encourage you to register early!

Registration closes Saturday, October 31, 2026, or when capacity is reached.

2026 SPEAKERS

Dr. Delaine Smith-Clark | A Champion of the Victims

A champion of the victims' movement, Dr. Delaine Smith-Clark works at a hospital-based rape crisis center, providing education, training, and advocacy to professionals, victims, and their families to help address the traumatic effects of violence. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Leadership from Regent University, a Master of Arts from Virginia Union University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Trinity University Washington. Dr. Smith-Clark builds strong relationships with local interagency groups and community partners and is deeply committed to making a difference through empathy, education, and empowerment. She is the recipient of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteer Services from President Joe Biden.

Jason Page | Senior Director of National Programs

Since 2010, Jason Page has served with MCSR, advancing programs that engage men and boys in preventing violence and strengthening communities. As Senior Director of National Programs, he leads youth development initiatives, national trainings, workshops, and the expansion of Men of Strength Club (MOST Club) programming in schools, colleges, and communities. Jason has worked with student-athletes, fraternities, Title IX departments, faculty, and community partners to expand prevention education and engagement. He also leads MCSR’s federal work with the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women, supporting grantees in developing and implementing effective programming for men and boys.

Photography & Media Notice

Photography and/or video recording may take place during the Maryland Women of Color Network Conference. By attending the conference, you acknowledge that photographs or recordings may be taken in public conference spaces and may be used by the conference organizers and sponsoring organizations for educational, informational, promotional, or archival purposes.

If you have questions or concerns regarding photography at the conference, please contact mwocnconference@gmail.com prior to the event or speak with a member of the event team at registration.

COVID-19 Health & Safety Disclaimer

The health and safety of our conference attendees, volunteers, staff, and the Bowie State University community are important to us. By attending the Maryland Women of Color Network Conference, you acknowledge that exposure to COVID-19 and other communicable illnesses is possible in public settings. Attendees are encouraged to follow current public health guidance, practice good hand hygiene, and remain home if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or feeling unwell. Please respect the health, privacy, and personal choices of fellow attendees.

By attending the conference, you agree to follow any health and safety measures that may be in place at the time of the event and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with attending an in-person gathering. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available during the conference. By completing your registration and attending the event, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this health and safety notice.

Stay safe and well.

Alexis | Windham Group LLC

Conference Planner

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!!!