Day 1 kickoff of CADAStock 2025 was a celebration of leadership, connection, and inspiration. From the moment we called the convention to order at the General Session, the energy in the room was electric. We kicked things off with an introduction to the CADA Board and expressed our gratitude to this year’s generous sponsors, whose support made this incredible event possible.
The theme took us on a nostalgic journey through time, as Penny Lane and Bill and Ted took us on a trip back to Woodstock, where we met Jimi Hendrix and experienced his legendary music and deep love for it. The atmosphere captured the spirit of the era, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable experience.
Brandon Fleming’s keynote at CADAStock 2025 was nothing short of transformative. With his powerful storytelling and authentic vulnerability, Fleming took the audience on a journey through his life experiences, illustrating the profound impact that educators can have when they lead with empathy and compassion.
Fleming shared his personal story of overcoming adversity, detailing how he went from being an at-risk youth to becoming a nationally acclaimed educator and founder of the Harvard Diversity Project. His narrative was not just about his successes but also about his struggles, failures, and the pivotal moments when caring educators changed his life’s trajectory. His transparency about his challenges resonated deeply with the audience, creating an emotional connection that left a lasting impression.
A central theme of Fleming’s message was the power of education to transform lives. He emphasized that leadership in education is not merely about teaching content but about inspiring hope and building meaningful relationships with students. Fleming reminded us that educators hold the power to shape identities, build confidence, and unlock potential.
One of the most impactful moments was when Fleming spoke about the importance of seeing beyond stereotypes and biases. He challenged attendees to lead with cultural empathy, to recognize the unique stories each student carries, and to create inclusive environments where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
Fleming’s words were not just inspirational but also actionable. He urged educators to cultivate curiosity, ignite passion, and empower students to find their voices. His call to action was clear: to lead with love, listen with compassion, and teach with purpose.
Pegleg was the heartbeat of evening entertainment at CADAStock 2025, offering the perfect space for attendees to relax, connect, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of leadership. As the sun set, Pegleg transformed into a lively gathering spot filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie.
True to the nostalgic theme of CADAStock, the atmosphere at Pegleg was electric, echoing the carefree vibes of Woodstock. Attendees were greeted by a groovy ambiance, complete with colorful lights, vintage decor, and a playlist that took everyone on a musical journey through the decades. From classic rock anthems to feel-good hits, the music set the tone for an evening of fun and friendship.
The live entertainment was nothing short of spectacular. Massive Appeal took the stage with dynamic performances that had the crowd dancing and singing along. It wasn’t just about the music—it was about the experience. The energy was infectious, bringing together educators from all over to share in the joy of the moment.
With the energy high and the excitement building, we look forward to another incredible day at CADA—filled with more learning, connection, and unforgettable moments!