The 2025 Best Buddies International Leadership Conference (BBLC) took place from July 18–21 at Indiana University in Bloomington, bringing together over 2,500 student leaders, volunteers, and advocates from around the world. This year’s theme, “Wickedly Inclusive,” blended creativity, joy, and advocacy, inspiring attendees to push the limits of what inclusion can look like in their schools, communities, and workplaces.

Missouri welcomed a record delegation of 53 conference attendees, all eager to learn and collaborate during the fun-filled weekend.

The conference opened with a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers and special guests, including Abbie Stockard, Miss America 2025; Garin Flowers, TV host and former Bachelorette contestant; David Burnham, a Broadway performer; and Tanner Smith from Love on the Spectrum. Attendees also enjoyed performances from America’s Got Talent winner Richard Goodall, fitness expert Billy Blanks, Jr., and the talented sign-language artist Lisa Smith, as well as cheerleaders from the Indianapolis Colts and the inclusive improv troupe The Improvaneers.

Educational tracks formed the core of the conference, offering participants a chance to dive deep into skill-building sessions tailored to their roles—whether in fundraising, advocacy, event planning, or chapter leadership. Interactive elements like the World Café encouraged collaboration and idea-sharing across state and international lines, while dedicated Ambassador tracks focused on personal development and public speaking.

In addition to formal sessions, the conference emphasized celebration and connection. Highlights included rousing musical performances, a spirited Buddies Friendship Walk across IU’s campus, and several dance parties! Presentations of the Outstanding Chapter of the Year Awards honored exceptional commitment and creativity across the Best Buddies movement.

Throughout the weekend, participants formed connections and gained fresh motivation to build more inclusive communities back home. One attendee summed up the experience best:

“This weekend was full of love, laughter, joy, and lots of kindness! The conference made me so much more confident in my ability to lead my Best Buddies chapter – from the trainings to exchanging ideas with other leaders, I have gained so much! I am so grateful for this opportunity.”

A special thanks to our friends at Illumiwear for their sponsorship of the 2025 Leadership Conference delegation. S. Marshall McClure continues to go above and beyond to ensure that Missouri is a place where everyone is included and valued. Thank you!!

From powerful storytelling to hands-on leadership training, BBLC 2025 was a transformative experience—one that reaffirmed the global momentum behind Best Buddies’ mission to create a world of true inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.