Conference corner: Packing, prep, and reminders
The 11th annual ACDIS conference in San Antonio, Texas, starts in 23 days. As you make your final preparations to leave in just a few short weeks, the ACDIS team has some reminders to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
First, make sure you visit the ACDIS Blog regularly. We’ve been posting helpful hints and tips to help you get the most out of the conference and we will continue to do so as the date approaches. Each week, we also list the previous week’s blog posts in CDI Strategies, so be on the lookout for anything you might have missed there, too.
Second, we will be using the ACDIS conference app again this year, so be on the lookout for instructions on downloading and logging in. We do not print materials for attendees, so the app is your way to access all the presentations at the event and connect with other attendees and speakers.
Finally, as a reminder, the ACDIS office will be closed for the conference starting Friday, May 18, and will reopen Tuesday, May 28, after Memorial Day weekend. We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio!
What to wear…
Wear comfortable but professional clothing, comfortable shoes you can walk in, and bring extra layers (such as sweaters or jackets). We have no control of the temperature in the convention center and it may fluctuate from room to room.
Also, remember that no outfit is complete without your conference badge. If you arrive at the conference without it, security cannot let you into the exhibit hall or conference session rooms.
- Day 1 of the annual conference is always “show your CDI pride day.” We encourage you to wear purple and orange. In the past, attendees have sported purple ties and orange shirts, fancy hats, and scarves. We’ll be giving out spirit ribbons and special prizes for those who go above and beyond.
- Day 2 is always “state pride day.” We encourage you to wear an item of clothing emblematic of your state. Visit the local chapter page for your state to stay up-to-date on what the chapter leaders have planned for this year’s festivities and be on the lookout for an email from ACDIS staff about conference chapter happenings.
What to bring. . .
Bring your business cards! Networking is one of the most important aspects of the conference. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards so you can share your contact information with colleagues, and enter drawings in the exhibit hall.
Bring some pens and paper to swap. ACDIS’ CCDS Coordinator Penny Richards organizes a “stationary swap.” s. To join in, pick up a fun pen or two and a small stationary item (like animal shaped paper clips or a light-up pen) wrapped in a paper bag and drop it off at the ACDIS registration desk on Day 1 starting at noon through Day 2 at noon. You’ll receive a ticket which you can exchange for a different package from the bin on Day 2. To make your donation to the exchange extra special, consider including a motivational note or a CDI tip in your package.
Early arrivals…
For those arriving on Monday, May 21, we strongly encourage you to pre-register and pick up your badge and your bag of goodies from 2-6 p.m. Pre-registration will be held at the registration desk in the Grand Ballroom Foyer, on level 1 of the conference center. By pre-registering you will avoid waiting in line Tuesday morning. We also look forward to seeing you at this year’s pre-event cocktail reception on Monday, May 21, 5-7:30 p.m., in the Exhibit Hall.
Last day reminders…
This year will mark the first ever Closing Night Awards Reception after hours on the last full day of the conference, Wednesday, May 23, 5-6:30 p.m. The ACDIS team hopes to see lots of friendly faces joining us to celebrate our 2018 ACDIS Achievement Award winners and network with colleagues from near and far.
Registration for this event is separate from conference registration. Tickets are $25 in advance and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Your ticket includes two drink tickets and appetizers. Space is limited, so don’t miss your opportunity to join the celebration. Call customer service at 615-724-7200 to get your tickets.
If any space remains, a limited number of tickets will be available onsite through 7:30 p.m. on Monday, May 21, but the price will increase to $40, so please register early.