2026 RISE Annual Meeting Focuses on Emerging Technology

RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment) members, young professionals, industry partners, and guests gathered in Dallas-Las Colinas, TX, Aug. 16–20, 2026, for the association’s 35th annual meeting, the first under the leadership of Executive Director Scott Herndon. Neil Cleveland, PBI-Gordon, concluded his 2024–2026 term as RISE Governing Board Chair.

“Together, we’ve stepped away from our day-to-day work to share ideas, tackle emerging challenges, and better prepare for the opportunities ahead,” Herndon said during the Opening General Session. “After seeing the impact of our advocacy, outreach, and collaboration over the past year, we’re also celebrating what our members and industry partners have accomplished.”

Cleveland shared his appreciation for the more than 400 members who volunteer their time on RISE efforts and committees.

“2026 has been a year of impact due to our work together as RISE. Whatever your level of engagement, each of us IS our industry where we are creating inspiring and healthy places to live, work, and play,” said Cleveland in the Closing General Session.

Keynote Speaker and Session on Drone Technology

Keynote speaker Nicholas Webb, CEO of LeaderLogic, shared a message about innovation, artificial intelligence, and what’s next. One of Webb’s key takeaways: In the age of AI, we must strive to deliver human-first experiences.

Webb was followed by industry leaders who provided insight on “Drone Technology in the Specialty Pesticide Industry” with panelists Nandita Chowdry, Clarke; Sarah Hovinga, Bayer; Kamron Newberry, AmericanHort; and Kelley Wittenberg, a drone technology expert.

The panel discussed drone use and how legislation and regulations will help or hinder drone advancement. Key takeaway: Drone innovation is here. RISE member companies must strategically prepare for their adoption while collaborating with policymakers and regulators to ensure the industry has a clear path to operate in this evolving space.

The Closing General Session on Day 2 featured the following panels and presentations:

• “Keeping it Real: Sharpen Your Strategic Thinking with the Insights Professionals Are Seeing in the Data” was moderated by Karen Readon, RISE Vice President of Public Affairs, with Panelists Charlie Arnot, Center for Food Integrity; William Stewart, Povaddo; and Colby Vogt, Covo.
• “A Federal Policy Landscape: Now and in the Future” panel with Laurie Flanagan, DC Legislative & Regulatory Services (DCLRS), and Mike Gruber, Household and Commercial Products Association.

For more information on the 35th annual RISE meeting, including its strategy summit and award recipients, read the full release here.