Leaders from Around the World to Unite in the Name of Inclusion at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference in Bloomington, Indiana
Get Ready for a “Wickedly Inclusive” Celebration of Change and Empowerment at Indiana University
Bloomington, IN — July 13, 2025 — Prepare to be spellbound by the return of the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference, where inclusion takes center stage in a wicked new way. From July 18–21, 2025, Indiana University will host over 2,500 student leaders, volunteers, and supporters from around the globe for an unforgettable experience packed with inspiration, empowerment, and celebration. This year’s theme, “Wickedly Inclusive,” promises to bring the magic of true inclusion to life, creating opportunities for participants to ignite change in their communities and beyond.
“We’re not just gathering—we’re creating a movement,” said David Quilleon, Senior Vice President, Global Mission, State Development & Operations at Best Buddies International. “The energy this year will be off the charts as we celebrate bold leadership, friendship, and inclusion. The ‘Wickedly Inclusive’ theme reflects the kind of daring, joyful spirit that this conference has always embodied, and we can’t wait to see how these incredible young leaders will carry that spirit forward.”
This year’s conference features an array of inspiring special guests who will bring their talent, passion, and unique perspectives to the stage:
- Abbie Stockard – Miss America 2025
- Garin Flowers – TV host & former Bachelorette star
- Marlana Vanhoose – Musician and singer
- Lisa Smith – Sign language performer
- David Burnham – Broadway performer & advocate
- Tanner Smith – Reality star, Love on the Spectrum
- Richard Goodall – America’s Got Talent winner, season 19 in 2024
- Indianapolis Colts Cheerleaders – Professional dance team
- Billy Blanks, Jr. – Fitness instructor & wellness influencer
What to Expect: The Wickedly Inclusive Experience
The 2025 Leadership Conference promises to deliver an electrifying array of events and activities, including:
- Opening Ceremonies on Friday evening featuring heart-pumping performances, motivational speakers, and a wicked start to the weekend.
- Workshops and Trainings focusing on leadership, advocacy, fundraising, and inclusion, designed to empower young leaders.
- The Best Buddies Friendship Walk on Saturday night at Assembly Hall, where participants walk together to show their support for inclusion.
- Keynote Addresses by global disability advocates and Best Buddies Ambassadors.
- Interactive Networking Opportunities to foster collaboration and build lasting friendships across Best Buddies chapters worldwide.
- A Wickedly Inclusive Dance Party where everyone is invited to join in the celebration of friendship, community, and belonging.
Held annually at Indiana University, the Best Buddies Leadership Conference is a transformative space where ideas are shared, barriers are broken, and leaders are inspired to take action. The 2025 conference promises to be the most dynamic and inclusive event yet, reflecting Best Buddies’ ongoing commitment to creating a world where all individuals, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to thrive.
To learn more about the Best Buddies Leadership Conference or to register, visit bestbuddies.org/bblc.
About Best Buddies
Best Buddies® is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school, and college chapters worldwide. Today, Best Buddies’ 12 formal programs — Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e-Buddies®, Jobs, Ambassadors, Promoters, Transitions, Inclusive Living and Eunie’s Buddies— engage participants in each of the 50 states and in 45 countries, positively impacting the lives of nearly one million people with and without disabilities around the world. In many cases, as a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. For more information, please visit bestbuddies.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
For media inquiries (including requests for credentials):
Nicole Maddox
NicoleMaddox@bestbuddies.org
