SERC 2026 IN Norfolk, va

Beyond the Looking Glass: Downtown Norfolk, located at the mouth of the James and Elizabeth Rivers, has long been known for its history as a central port for trade and maritime activity. But in the past decade, Norfolk’s parallel identity as a creative hub has blossomed. Sparked by the Chrysler Museum’s extensive glass artwork collections (30,000 pieces spanning 5,000 years of creation) and their neighboring facility, the Perry Glass Studio, locals and visitors alike began to see glasswork beyond the traditional forms: as a performance, as a constant collaboration, and as an inspiration for new artists. This led to the creation and proliferation of Norfolk’s Art District, NEON or the New Energy of Norfolk, and has polished the city into a destination of a new kind, given it a more multi-faceted creative identity.

As our industry is at its own nexus of change, navigating the ethics and implementation of AI, an ever-shifting job field, and unpredictable market trends, join us as we step through our own looking glass – gaining clarity, sparking creativity, and building connection with our peers to build a new landscape together.

SMPS’s Southeastern Regional Conference, Beyond the Looking Glass: Building Clarity, Creativity, and Connection, will take place in Norfolk, Virginia from March 17 to 19, 2026, at the Hilton Norfolk The Main Hotel. Downtown Norfolk, surrounded by the Elizabeth River, is a vibrant, walkable city center with easy access to countless restaurants and shops, as well as landmarks and institutions like Towne Point Park, Nauticus Maritime Discover Center, and the Battleship Wisconsin. We can’t wait to see you there!