expandTake your learning to the next level with NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop (formerly known as Program for Advanced Trustee Studies, or PATS).
2026 Fiduciary in Focus Workshop
Each fall, public pension trustees and plan staff dive deep into two timely, high-impact topics. Through collaborative discussions and real-world strategies, you’ll build the expertise needed to tackle emerging fiduciary challenges.
About NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop (formerly known as PATS)
Take your learning to the next level with NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop (formerly known as Program for Advanced Trustee Studies, or PATS). Hands-on exercises, collaborative discussions, and expert guidance in a small classroom setting help prepare trustees and pension staff to tackle today’s most pressing fiduciary challenges.
Register now to join us October 24-25 in Nashville, TN for this year's Fiduciary in Focus Workshop, held directly before the NCPERS Public Safety Conference.
Who Should Attend NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop?
This workshop is ideal for public pension trustees, administrators, and staff who want to expand their fiduciary knowledge beyond the basics:
- Trustees - (1+ years of experience) – after building your foundational knowledge with NCPERS Trustee Essentials Training, take your learning to the next level.
- Plan Administrators – stay informed about the latest fiduciary challenges to lead with confidence in an increasingly complex pension landscape.
- Pension Staff – find practical strategies from peers and industry experts to make informed decisions as you navigate emerging issues.
Please note: Your organization must be a current member of NCPERS to participate. To verify your status, please contact membership@ncpers.org.
Looking to expand your fiduciary knowledge? Join us May 15-16, 2027 for the spring NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary Institute (NAF), held prior to the NCPERS 2027 Annual Conference and Exhibition (ACE). Click here for updates on the spring 2027 NAF program.
Continuing Education: What Will I Learn at the Fiduciary in Focus Workshop?
Each year, our program focuses on two dynamic topics, ensuring that you stay ahead of the curve and well-versed in the latest industry trends. Recent topics have included cybersecurity, real assets, AI, and private equity. View the 2025 agenda for a glimpse of what’s to come.
By attending the Fiduciary in Focus Workshop, you’ll find practical insights and valuable connections to help you excel long after the program ends. Plus, you can earn Continuing Education (CE) hours with NCPERS.
Registration Information
NCPERS membership is required to attend NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop. NCPERS members save significantly on registration fees.
- Pension Fund/Stakeholder Member Early-Bird Registration Fee: $930 (prices will increase to $1,130 after October 1, 2026)
Register by October 1, 2026 to lock in your savings at the early-bird rate. Follow these instructions to create your account to register online, or contact registration@ncpers.org for assistance.
To register by mail, please download, complete, and mail the registration form to:
NCPERS
1201 New York Avenue, NW
Suite 850
Washington, DC 20005
All requests to modify a registration must be submitted by emailing registration@ncpers.org or by calling 202-601-2445.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@ncpers.org. Cancellations are eligible for a refund, less a $100 administrative fee.
Refunds will be issued only for written cancellation requests and will be processed less a $100 administrative fee. All refunds will be issued to the original form of payment.
Substitutions are permitted at no additional cost at any time prior to the event. The original registrant is responsible for providing the substitute’s complete contact information. All substitution requests must be submitted in writing to registration@ncpers.org.
NCPERS prioritizes the well-being of attendees and staff. We encourage respect for personal choices regarding masks and physical contact, adherence to any local or venue guidelines, and staying home if unwell. Thank you for helping us create a safe and welcoming environment.
Hotel Information: Renaissance Nashville
NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop will be held at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, located in the heart of downtown. The NCPERS room rate is $339 per night, with a reservation deadline of Thursday, October 1 at 11:59 PM Eastern time.
The hotel sits just steps from Broadway, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Nashville’s central business district, making it easy for attendees to explore the city before or after sessions. Attendees will have convenient access to sessions, networking events, and nearby restaurants and entertainment, all within walking distance. Don’t let the room rate sell out, book your stay early to secure the best rate.
Reservations: Book online or call 800-237-6618 and request the NCPERS room block.
Hotel Policies
Cancellation Policy: Reservations require a first night's room and tax deposit at the time of booking. Guests may cancel their reservation with 24 hour notice. Any guest who checks out prior to their confirmed departure date will be subject to an early departure fee equal to one night's room rate and applicable taxes. Guests are encouraged to confirm their arrival and departure dates carefully at the time of booking to avoid additional charges.
Check-In/Check-Out: Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and check-out is by 12:00 PM (noon)
Transportation
- Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is approximately 8.4 miles from the hotel, typically a 15-minute drive depending on traffic.
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft rides from BNA cost around $25-$35 and taxis cost $30-$40.
- Public Transit: WeGo Route 18 provides direct service from BNA to downtown Nashville. The trip takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately $2. The closest stop is a short walk from the hotel.
- Hotel Parking: Valet parking is currently $69 per day (oversized vehicles incur additional charges). Self-parking is available in nearby garages but is not operated by the hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fiduciary in Focus Workshop
Many trustees and plan professionals also benefit from attending the Fiduciary in Focus Workshop several times. The program is designed to help you stay in the know about emerging issues so, with the topics of focus changing year-to-year.
About NCPERS University: Your Path to Fiduciary Excellence
Whether you’re a new trustee or an experienced professional, NCPERS University provides a clear path forward in your fiduciary journey. Interactive exercises and real-world case studies provide actionable insights, while our certification program can help you level up your pension knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to fiduciary excellence.
These pre-conference programs are designed to give trustees and pension professionals the tools, confidence, and practical skills to excel—not just during our events, but in every decision that shapes your fund’s future.
- Build your foundational knowledge with NCPERS Trustee Essentials Training.
- Gain the skills needed to lead a high-performing, resilient pension fund with confidence with NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute.
View the Upcoming Event Calendar
Questions? Contact NCPERS’ Education Associate, Jessica Ransome, at jransome@ncpers.org or call 202-601-2449.
Other Educational Resources
NCPERS Webinars
Stay connected and continue your learning from anywhere with NCPERS Webinars. These live and on-demand sessions cover timely topics in public pension governance, investment strategies, risk management, and much more—led by industry experts.
NCPERS Research
NCPERS research provides key insights and solutions on public pension issues, from funding and sustainability to healthcare and finance. Stay informed, benchmark your fund, and make data-driven decisions. Sign up to be notified of new studies and access exclusive survey data.
NCPERS Publications
NCPERS publications provide members with timely insights and analysis on the most important issues affecting public pensions. These resources help you stay informed, make better decisions, and keep ahead of industry trends.