Evaluation (Un)Filtered:

An Unconference for Unprecedented Times

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

2025 is a time of uncertainty and upheaval for the evaluation field. Jobs have been lost. Data has been erased. Friends, colleagues, and partners have been harmed by large-scale changes at the federal level. Even evidence-based decision making feels under attack.

In these unprecedented times, it is clear that our relationships and connections to one another matter more than ever. MNEA sees an opportunity for our membership community to come together to have the conversations that matter for our current work and our collective next steps.

MNEA’s 2025 Unconference is a time and a space where all voices in our community will be lifted up, where we can connect and learn, and where we can grow in the service of what this present moment requires from us. 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 attendees can create their own agenda, prioritize the topics that are 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!

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