Conclave 2026

The last day of Conclave starts off strong with a buffet breakfast and time to mingle with friends before the program kicks off promptly at 8:30 a.m. First, you will hear from Bryan Moeller, CGA, President of the AGS International Board of Directors, as well as get a “State of the AGS” update from AGS CEO Katherine Bodoh, RJ, who will also present the John J. Kennedy Award. Then it’s time for the keynote, and this is where the magic happens.

Deanna Marsigliese is an Italian-Canadian art director, character designer, and 2D animator based in San Francisco who has worked at Pixar Animation Studios since 2012, contributing to films such as Luca, Soul, Onward, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, Bao, Inside Out, and The Good Dinosaur, with her creative process also featured in the Disney+ documentary series Inside Pixar. Most recently, she designed the characters Anxiety and Ennui for Pixar’s record-breaking Inside Out 2 (2024) and has contributed new characters to the Toy Story franchise ahead of its next installment in 2026, while currently conceptualizing additional projects in development.

A two-time Annie Award nominee and Academy member, Marsigliese is also a dedicated educator who has written and directed Pixar’s art internship programs, piloted courses at Pixar University and The Walt Disney Family Museum, and previously served as Professor of Classical Animation at Seneca College in Toronto, in addition to delivering keynotes and workshops worldwide and headlining major events such as SXSW, D23, and LightBox Expo. A vintage fashion enthusiast with a love of bold costume jewelry, she often finds inspiration while traveling the world with a surprisingly small backpack.

Join us in recognizing our new and milestone credentialed members of the Society at the annual Titleholders Luncheon! AGS credentials set members apart by demonstrating their commitment to continuing education and superior business ethics. We will also present the Young Titleholder of the Year award, a prestigious honor for one of the Society’s emerging leaders.

As a special treat, enjoy a quick, 45-minute keynote presentation by David Kwong. Magician and New York Times Crossword constructor David Kwong has delighted audiences worldwide with his signature blend of illusion and puzzles, and as a TED Talk favorite, he regularly speaks to companies on the science of why our brains are fooled and how perception shapes decision-making. He served as head magic consultant for the global hit "Now You See Me," and his acclaimed one-man show, "The Enigmatist," has sold out in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. Drawing from his book Spellbound: Seven Principles of Illusion to Captivate Audiences and Unlock the Secrets of Success, David delivers entertaining, insight-packed keynotes on illusion, influence, persuasion, and getting a step ahead—and also designs custom team-building puzzle experiences for organizations.