Whether this is your first ASCLD Symposium or your 21st, a conference of this size can feel like a lot to navigate. With multiple days of programming, optional add-ons, networking events, and experiences happening across the week, we're here to help you make the most of it. 

 

Below are tips, reminders, and insider guidance to help you feel prepared, confident, and ready to jump in.

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Sunday and Monday are dedicated to optional, pre-conference workshops, which require an additional registration fee. These sessions are a great way to dive deeper into specific topics but are completely optional. 

 

The Symposium officially kicks off on Monday evening with the Opening Reception - your first major networking opportunity and a great way to ease into the week. 

 

Official conference programming runs Tuesday through Thursday, with sessions concluding at noon on Thursday.
 

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If you're new to ASCLD (or just want a refresher), be sure to attend the First-Time Attendee/New Member Orientation on Tuesday morning during breakfast. 

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This informal session is your chance to

• Meet members of the ASCLD Board

• Connect with other first-time attendees

• Learn how the week is structured and how to get the most out of it

Highly recommend if this is your first Symposium.

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The offsite event is the can't-miss party of the week. 

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Typically held away from the venue, this year we're keeping things even easier - no busses required. The event will take place at the 27th-floor restaurant at the hotel, making it feel more like a special destination event than a typical offsite. 

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It's a themed party, so be sure to dress accordingly. Tickets are limited and charged at $50, which you can purchase through your registration, so sign up early if you plan to attend. 

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The ASCLD Business Meeting on Wednesday is open to all attendees, not just members. 

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During this 30-minute session, ASCLD will:

• Share accomplishments from the past year

• Highlight progress across the organization and industry

• Vote in the new Board of Directors (members vote; all may attend)

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There are education sessions immediately before and awards immediately after in the same room, so plan to be there for the full block of time. 

 

 

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• Optional, paid pre-conference excursions are available if you'd like to explore the city with fellow attendees

• New this year: Dine-Arounds! We'll host nightly dinner reservations at various local restaurants. You'll sign up onsite using lists posted on a bulletin board in the Paws for a Break area. ASCLD isn't covering dinner costs - we're simply arranging the reservations and the company.

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• The exhibit hall is not open on Sunday or Monday during pre-conference workshops

• It opens Monday night during the Opening Reception and remains open through the Wednesday closing reception 

• Networking happens everywhere - sessions, receptions, lounges, and even hallway conversations - so don't be shy

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• Visit the ASCLD Store, located in the Paws for a Break area, to purchase swag and apparel

• Dress in layers - meeting rooms can be chilly

• Wear comfortable, broken-in shoes. This is not the week to debut brand-new footwear or stilletos

• Stay hydrated and take advantage of wellness offerings throughout the week

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Be sure to explore the full Symposium website ahead of time. In May, registered attendees will receive: 

• Access to the mobile app

• A live app tutorial

• A Know Before You Go document

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Participating in these resources will help you arrive feeling informed and confident. 

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Session and conference evaluations are one of the most important ways ASCLD shapes future programming. All attendees are strongly encouraged to complete them. 

• Certificates of Attendance are available to those who complete the overall conference evaluation

• Certificates are sent approximately three weeks after the event

• ASCLD retains certificates for six months post-conference only, so be sure to download and save yours

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Pace yourself. Pick the sessions that matter most to you. Take breaks when you need them. Say hello to someone new. And most importantly - have fun. 

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For additional details not covered here, including registration policies, travel, meals, accessibility, and onsite logistics, please visit the FAQs page.