USAFA Women 50 Yr Celebration 2026
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April 23-26, 2026
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United States Air Force Academy & Colorado Springs, CO
Commemorating the Historic Milestone
On June 28, 1976, 157 women walked up the ramp into the United States Air Force Academy, joining the Long Blue Line and beginning a new chapter in the Academy’s story. To commemorate this historic moment and the five decades that followed, our community gathered in Colorado Springs on April 23–26, 2026. Together, we honored the milestone, celebrate the people and stories woven across these years, and inspire the generations yet to come.
View the one-page summary of events, times, and locations that will be printed and included in your welcome packet at registration check-in.
Explore the full program guide online for detailed descriptions and everything you need to make the most of your experience.
Presenter biographies can be found in this companion document.
Weekend Highlights
Thursday | Registration & Kickoff
Registration opened with optional kickoff activities, including a golf tournament and a Habitat for Humanity community service project. In the late afternoon, attendees gathered for a welcome reception followed by a guided walk along the Heritage Trail and presentation of concepts for a commemorative installation including the Court of Inspiration.
Friday | Heritage, Leadership & Open House Experience
Friday opened with a welcome ceremony and powerful panels featuring early graduates and leaders whose courage and vision expanded what was possible for those who followed. Subsequent sessions spotlighted trailblazers in flight and space and showcase the transformative power of storytelling shaped by five decades of lived experience.
In the afternoon, attendees transitioned to the cadet area for the USAFA Open House, lunch, and briefings.
The day concluded with a signature gathering at Hotel Polaris, featuring a seated dinner and keynote speakers who created an unforgettable evening of inspiration, connection, and celebration.
Saturday | Reflection, Excellence & Celebration
Saturday began with a Welcome and Memorial Service at Hotel Polaris — a meaningful moment of remembrance and gratitude honoring the Gone But Not Forgotten members of our community.
Following the Memorial, five rounds of breakout sessions gave every attendee the opportunity to attend a different topic in each block. Sessions spanned mindset and performance, the stories behind firsts in flight, foundations of service and leadership, entrepreneurship, overcoming adversity, ZASA's past and future, and the power of empowering your inner champion.
The day concluded with a spirited "Back to the 80s" celebration — an upbeat evening of music, humor, and connection.
Sunday | Farewell & Connection
The weekend concluded with optional wellness and connection activities, including morning yoga, a farewell brunch, and a guided hike.
