Florida Sister Cities Conference
November 15–17, 2026 | Tampa, Florida
This dynamic three-day conference unites Sister Cities leaders, dedicated volunteers, municipal officials, educators, nonprofit professionals, and global partners to enhance citizen diplomacy, share best practices, and forge impactful international partnerships. The event features the annual business meeting of Florida Sister Cities, alongside sessions integrated with the TIDES Conference, offering ample opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration among attendees.
Conference Registration
Florida Sister Cities Members: $175 - Exclusive rate for our valued members!
Non-Members: $225 - Join us and be part of a vibrant community.
Conference Agenda
Day 1Sunday, November 15 Location: TBA Room #: TBA *Ongoing Raffle |
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1:00 PM Registration & WelcomeConference check-in, distribution of materials, and an opportunity to connect with fellow delegates before the opening session. |
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2:00 PM Opening Plenary: Welcome & State of Florida Sister CitiesBrenda Frinks - SCI FL State Representative Sherman Banks - Former Chair of SCI Official conference opening featuring a welcome to attendees, Sister Cities International updates, accomplishments from across Florida, strategic priorities, and an overview of initiatives for the coming year. |
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3:00 PM BreakRefreshments and networking. |
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3:15 PM Building, Strengthening & Revitalizing Sister City ProgramsFred Blanton - SCI Vice Chair and State Rep for VA. and WV. Learn practical strategies to launch new partnerships, revitalize inactive programs, strengthen municipal engagement, recruit volunteers, increase community participation, and create sustainable Sister City organizations. |
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5:30 PM Welcome Reception & Networking MixerBrenda Frinks - SCI FL State Representative Meet conference attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and build new relationships while enjoying light |
Day 2Monday, November 16 Location: Tampa Convention Center *Ongoing Raffle |
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9:00 AM TIDES Opening Ceremony |
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10:00 AM Truth Across Borders: International Journalism, Democracy and Global Understanding |
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11:00 AM |
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12:00 PM Florida Sister Cities Networking LunchLocation: TBD Enjoy lunch while connecting with fellow members, exchanging ideas, sharing successful programs, and discussing opportunities for collaboration. |
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3:30 PM Florida Sister Cities Roundtable SessionsFacilitator: Clint M. Conliffe - Miramar Sister Cities Liaison
Interactive discussions featuring regional meetings, office hours, peer-to-peer problem solving, cluster discussions, networking, and the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices. |
Day 3Tuesday, November 17 Location: Tampa Convention Center Room #: TBA *Ongoing Raffle |
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9:00 AM WelcomeNan Harper - Pensacola Sister Cities President Opening remarks, conference updates, and an overview of the day’s educational programming |
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9:30 AM Florida Sister Cities Annual Business MeetingBrenda Frinks - SCI FL State Representative Conduct the official business of the organization, including bylaws, elections, committee reports, strategic initiatives, financial updates, and member discussions. |
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12:00 PM LunchLocation: TBA Lunch and networking with conference participants |
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1:00 PM Youth ProgramDaphney Antoine - Delray Beach President Stephanie Chill - President, Clearwater Sister Cities Explore innovative youth engagement initiatives, educational exchanges, leadership development opportunities, and strategies for involving students in international partnerships. |
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2:30 PM Nonprofit FinanceFred Blanton - SCI Vice Chair and State Rep for VA. and WV Learn nonprofit financial management practices, budgeting, fundraising strategies, grant opportunities, compliance, and long-term sustainability for Sister City organizations |
Day 3Cont. |
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3:30 PM Conflict Resolution & Collaborative LeadershipLauren Poe - Gainesville Sister Cities President Develop practical communication and conflict resolution skills to strengthen partnerships, navigate organizational challenges, and foster productive collaboration. |
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4:30 PM FUND RaisingHear success stories and best practices from established exchange programs, highlighting educational, cultural, and professional exchanges that strengthen international relationships. FUNDRaising |
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Evening Optional Group Activity |
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Discounted Host Hotels Rates
For your convenience, the SCI Florida Conference has selected Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa and Hyatt House Tampa as host hotel options with a discount rate. Both hotels offer comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and easy access to conference activities. Attendees are encouraged to reserve early to secure their preferred hotel.
Hyatt House
Average nightly rate | $209.00USD +Taxes & Fees
Hyatt House Tampa Airport / Westshore is a modern, extended-stay hotel just minutes from Tampa International Airport, offering spacious rooms and suites with home-style amenities.
Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, on-site dining, and convenient access to Tampa’s Westshore business district.
Embassy Suites
Average nightly rate | 199.00USD +Taxes & Fees
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa offers spacious two-room suites, complimentary made-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with drinks and snacks.
Conveniently located for business and leisure travelers, with on-site dining, fitness facilities, and easy access to Tampa attractions and major venues.
Embassy Suites - Gov Rate
Average nightly rate | 148.00USD +Taxes & Fees
Embassy Suites by Hilton Tampa offers spacious two-room suites, complimentary made-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with drinks and snacks.
Conveniently located for business and leisure travelers, with on-site dining, fitness facilities, and easy access to Tampa attractions and major venues. *Must have Government ID
