INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION 2026
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2026 TORCH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
June 11–14, 2026
More than 100 Torch members and guests from across the United States and Canada gathered in Winston-Salem for a convention unlike any in Torch’s 102-year history.
Designed around the themes of fellowship, lifelong learning, simplicity, and positive change, the 2026 Convention combined inspiring presentations, meaningful conversations, local experiences, and unforgettable moments of celebration.
With nearly half of attendees experiencing their very first Torch International Convention, the weekend reflected both the traditions of Torch and the exciting possibilities ahead.
A Warm Southern Welcome
From the moment attendees arrived at the historic Brookstown Inn, they were welcomed into a convention designed to feel more like a gathering of friends than a formal conference.
Historic venues, walkable experiences, welcoming Hospitality Hosts, and countless volunteer hours created an atmosphere that attendees described as warm, engaging, and uniquely Torch.
Special thanks to our Winston-Salem Convention Team and volunteers whose dedication brought this experience to life.
Inspiring Presentations & Conversations
Convention attendees experienced one of the most ambitious educational programs in recent Torch history.
The program featured:
- Concurrent presentation sessions
- Concurrent leadership workshops
- Panel discussions
- Club development conversations
- New opportunities for member engagement
Members explored topics spanning history, science, culture, leadership, public policy, innovation, and the arts—led by outstanding presenters from Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and clubs across North America.
A special highlight was our plenary session:
The Torch Magazine: From Ideas to Publication
The Torch Magazine: From Ideas to Publication
Members heard directly from Editor Michael Washburn, Managing Editor Joel Stegall, and Linda Paskey, Creative Director who are behind the magazine’s transformation.
Experiencing Winston-Salem
This convention was designed not only to bring members together—but to showcase Winston-Salem itself.
Highlights included:
- Opening welcome celebrating Winston-Salem’s history and culture
- Luncheon and presentation at the new MUSE Winston-Salem
- Group trolley tour through historic neighborhoods
- Walking tour of Old Salem
Attendees experienced the creativity, innovation, architecture, and hospitality that make Winston-Salem such a remarkable place.
Celebrating Excellence
Friday evening’s Gala Awards Dinner provided one of the convention’s most memorable evenings.
Members celebrated:
- Paxton Award winners for both 2025 and 2026
- Outstanding Club Award
- Gold Awards
- Lifetime Leadership and service recognitions
The evening concluded with music, laughter, and moments of reflection that reminded everyone what makes Torch so special.
Remembering David Piner
This convention was also marked by remembrance.
Just days before the convention, Torch lost our friend and colleague David Piner.
David served as a convention committee member, former club president, Paxton Award winner, and was scheduled to serve as Convention Host.
Throughout the weekend, members honored David’s creativity, generosity, humor, and love for Torch.
His presence and spirit remained part of the convention experience.
Looking Ahead
One statistic captured the spirit of this convention:
Nearly 50% of attendees were attending their first Torch International Convention.
That level of engagement reflects the momentum and energy building across Torch.
New members, new clubs, new ideas, and renewed connections are helping shape the future of Torch’s second century.
To everyone who attended: thank you.
And to those who were unable to join us, we hope to see you next time.
Until then… keep learning, keep connecting, and keep carrying the Torch.
Thank You, Torch Family
More than 100 members and guests came together in Winston-Salem for fellowship, lifelong learning, simplicity, and positive change.
The 2026 Torch International Convention celebrated our history, honored our members, and pointed boldly toward the future of Torch’s second century.
Keep carrying the Torch.