Leadership Unlocked

2026 MCAA Annual Conference

June 3-5, 2026
Ashore Resort in Ocean City, MD

The MCAA Annual Conference is the premier opportunity to connect with correctional professionals from across Maryland, gain fresh insights, and recognize the impactful work happening throughout our correctional system.

Join us for a dynamic multi-day event designed to inform, inspire, and strengthen our statewide community.

The conference features expert-led sessions, valuable networking opportunities, and exhibitor showcases highlighting innovative practices and technologies shaping the future of corrections.

Annual Awards Banquet
Exhibitor Showcases
Golf Tournament
Networking and Collaboration

Reserve Your Stay for the 2026 MCAA Conference

Take advantage of special conference rates at the Ashore Resort!

Swing for Scholarships

June 2, 2025, at River Run Golf Course

Proceeds from the 2026 MCAA Golf Tournament will support the MCAA scholarship fund. Register an individual, a foursome or become a sponsor today!

2026 Awards Banquet

The MCAA Awards Banquet is an annual celebration of outstanding achievements in the field of correctional administration.

Event Highlights:

Awards
Celebrate recipients of the Community Service Award, Officer/Employee of the Year, President’s Award, and the prestigious DeWitt Award.

Scholarships
Recognize scholarship award recipients.

Lifetime Members
Induction of new lifetime members.

Special Benefits:

Complimentary Attendance
Officer/Employee of the Year and Community Service Award recipients may attend the conference at no cost.

Registration Deadline
Officer/Employee of the Year nominations must be submitted by April 15th.

Sponsor the Conference or Advertise with Us

Sponsor the Event

Sponsorships play a crucial role in supporting the conference. Levels include:

Diamond Level: $10,000 and above
Platinum Level: $7,500
Gold Level: $5,500
Silver Level: $3,500

Advertise in the Conference Program:

The conference program is distributed to every attendee, exhibitor and guest, a great opportunity to showcase your business.

Front Inside Cover: $600
Back Inside Cover: $550
Back Outside Cover: $600
Full Page: $500
Half-Page: $425
Quarter-Page: $350

Customize Your Sponsorship?

For questions about sponsoring specific conference events or discussing customized sponsorship opportunities, contact Ryan Ross at rossr@ccso.us.

Conference FAQs

General Info

What is the purpose of the conference?

The conference aims to bring together professionals in the field to share knowledge, discuss current trends, and promote networking.

When and where is the conference taking place?

The conference will be held June 3-5 at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club, Ocean City , MD.

Who should attend the conference?

The conference is designed for correctional administrators, staff, policymakers and others in the corrections field.

Registration

How do I register for the conference?

Registration can be completed online on our Attendee Registration page.

What is the registration fee?

Early Bird Rates are available until April 1 at $350 for MCAA members and $375 for non-members. After April 1, conference registration is $400 for MCAA members and $425 Conference for non-members.

Registration includes single entry to the Awards Banquet, President’s Opening Reception, Exhibitor Hall, Seafood Feast, all Information/Training Session and Networking Events.

Registrations for Day 2 only (June 4) are available and include single entry to the Exhibitor Hall. Awards Banquet, Day 2 Information/Training Session and Networking Events.

Early Bird Rates for Day 2 Registration are $175 for members and $200 for non-members. After April 1, Day 2 registration is $225 for members and $250 for non-members.

How do I register an Officer/Employee of the Year?

We are proud to offer free registration to MCAA Officer of the Year Award winners from across Maryland. The MCAA Executive Board has designated a grant sponsorship for one (1) Officer/Employee of the Year per agency. 

To register an award winner, click here.

Can I register an additional Officer/Employee of the Year?

Yes! Agencies can sponsor additional award recipients during Attendee Registration. Register your additional awardee for the conference  and follow the prompts to add them as an additional awardee.

To register additional award winners, click here.

Are there any discounts available?

Early Bird Rates are available until April 1st at $350 for MCAA members and $375 for non-members. After May 12, conference registration is $400 for MCAA members and $425 for non-members.

Early Bird Rates for Day 2 Registration are $175 for members and $200 for non-members. After April 1st, Day 2 registration is $225 for members and $250 for non-members.

Accommodations

Is there a hotel block for attendees?

Yes, a block of rooms has been reserved at the Ashore Beach Club & Resort. To reserve your rooms, visit the Ashore website.

Are meals provided?

Meals are included in the registration fee. Extra tickets to the Awards Banquet and Seafood Feast may be purchased during registration or anytime through the conference website.

Sessions & Activities

What types of sessions will be offered?

The conference will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, and networking events.

Can I choose which sessions to attend?

Yes, attendees can select sessions based on their interests. Some sessions may require prior registration due to limited capacity.

What is the requested attire for the awards banquet?

MCAA requests that guests at the awards banquet dress in formal business attire or agency uniform.

Golf Tournament

Is there a golf tournament during the conference?

Yes, a golf tournament is scheduled for June 2nd. It’s a great opportunity for networking and relaxation.

How can I register for the golf tournament?

Registration for the golf tournament can be completed here.

What are the details of the golf tournament?

The tournament will take place at River Run Golf Course.  Prizes will be awarded for various categories, and all skill levels are welcome. Registration includes all-day beverages, lunch at the turn and dinner on the course. For more information, visit the tournament page.

Networking

Will there be networking opportunities?

Yes, there will be designated networking events and informal opportunities throughout the conference.

How can I connect with other attendees?

Attendees can connect through networking events as well as through social media using the hashtag #MCAA26.

Accessibility

Is the venue accessible to individuals with disabilities?

Yes, the venue is equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Please contact us if you have specific needs.

Will there be materials available after the conference?

Many session materials will be available online after the event for registered attendees.

Contact Information

Who can I contact for more information?

For any additional questions, please contact Brianna Cottman bcottman@qac.org or visit our website for FAQs.