Learning Forward Affiliates are local branches of Learning Forward with deep local expertise and a commitment to equity and excellence in professional learning. State and provincial affiliates build capacity to design, facilitate, and assess professional learning that aligns to the Standards for Professional Learning to improve educator and student outcomes. One of the ways affiliates connect with their members and stay on the cutting edge of the field is by holding online convenings and conversations. Several groups use articles from The Learning Professional to focus and further their learning. For example, in October 2024 members and friends of Learning Forward Connecticut read “Lessons in navigating conflict from Northern Ireland” by Emily Byers-Ferrian and Shannon Keeny from the June 2024 issue. As a part of their