Evaluation (Un)Filtered:

An Unconference for Unprecedented Times

September 10th, 2025 at the Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway N., St. Paul, MN 55104

We know many of our friends, colleagues, and professional partners in the field have been impacted by the changes that have been happening at the federal level. Jobs have been lost. Data has been erased. What is clear is that our relationships and connections to one another matter in these times. We see the opportunity for the evaluation field to come together to have the conversations that we, as a membership community, need to have now in order to understand where we are heading next.

This unconference is a place for all voices to be lifted up, a space and time to connect, coming together to learn and grow in the service of what this present moment requires from us as we explore what this means for the uncertain present and future for our field. Elders have said, “we are the ones we have been waiting for,” and as a field of evaluation here in Minnesota and beyond, we invite you to participate in engaging in the conversations we need to have now.

What is an unconference? 

An unconference is an event where attendees generate topics and hold conversations together on the spot about questions in their field. What makes an unconference special is that it allows attendees to create their own agenda, prioritize topics meaningful to them, share knowledge, and solve problems together through spontaneous interactions rather than through scheduled presentations. 

We talk more about the unconference format in our about unconferences section. 

Why an unconference? 

An unconference can be an effective method for fostering deep stakeholder engagement around timely and complex issues. Because participants drive the agenda and choose topics relevant to them, they feel invested in and excited about the conversations that happen. 

Why now? 

Our work is changing fast. Funding sources for programs are shifting, political agendas are reshaping our institutional practices, and our communities are looking for guidance. Evaluation as a field is an interdisciplinary and collaborative space where we see so much potential to learn from one another. 

Why you?

If you're curious, enjoy connecting with others, and feel energized by shared learning and discovery and an interdisciplinary exchange of ideas, you'll find your place at an unconference. 

Stay tuned

More unconference details will be added in the weeks ahead. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Conference Home

About Unconferences

Logistics

Registration

Sponsorship

Planning Committee