2026 AAC Chicago
This year’s conference in Chicago was a memorable week. From our opening reception at Chateau Carbide to dinner at Venteux and our closing celebration at Harry Caray’s, we had time to reconnect, build new relationships, and enjoy being together. Those conversations are just as valuable as the time we spend in the meeting room.
Our agenda brought together several perspectives on serving clients and building stronger businesses. Valerie Booker’s “Lead Like a CEO” session encouraged us to think about how we lead our practices. Our fixed income, macro, and private markets panels offered an opportunity to consider investment approaches, economic conditions, and the questions shaping client conversations. The Enterprise Leader Panel with Dave Hopkins, Josh Decker, and Peter Tourville reflected one of GVA’s greatest strengths: the opportunity to learn directly from each other. Alongside our keynote and vendor conversations, these sessions gave us ideas to bring back to our offices and put into practice.
We also featured Brian Westbrook as the keynote speaker. A Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Famer and College Football Hall of Fame inductee at Villanova University, Brian was one of the most dynamic all-purpose players of his generation — a two-time Pro Bowler, 2007 First Team All-Pro, and the Eagles’ all-time leader in yards from scrimmage.
Since his football career, Brian has become an entrepreneur, investor, broadcaster and philanthropist. Through the Brian Westbrook Foundation, he empowers youth with education, leadership development and financial literacy, and he mentors athletes navigating life after sports.
Our annual gathering is a chance to celebrate your successes and connect with peers across the GVA network — with engaging sessions, meaningful networking, and a few memorable experiences along the way.
