Coronavirus and the Upcoming National Conference

AHEPPP: Family Engagement in Higher Education is closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 outbreak response and transition for what lies ahead. We will work to provide specific updates and keep you apprised of any changes that may impact our traditional annual event.

Right now, we continue to move forward with plans for the Family Engagement in Higher Education National Conference, "The Magic of Family Engagementscheduled for November 16-18 in Orlando, FL.

We are hopeful that the coronavirus restrictions will be lifted very soon, allowing you to return to campus and for our association to gather in-person for our signature event that inspires, challenges, and recharges our community of professionals. While we wait, we know there is a good deal of uncertainty about travel reservations and registration fees for events planned for this fall. We know many institutions are facing budget reductions and it remains unclear if requests for professional development events or travel will be authorized this year as they may have been in the past. In order to best support you AHEPPP has done our best to keep registration costs low for members. 

Registration Opens May 1

Given these considerations, we will open registration May 1 so that those with remaining operational funds can use them this fiscal year.

Early-bird Registration Discount Extended

We have also extended the Early-bird discount rate from August 1 to September 1. This delay will provide many members some relief in considering professional development options in the months ahead.

New Flexible Cancellation Policies

We are all facing this uncertainty together and have therefore expanded our cancellation refund policy. Registrants will have until 30 days prior to cancel for any reason and receive a full refund, less a lower processing fee of $75. We hope this added flexibility will give you assurance that you can still participate and register for the event. 

Monitoring & Communication Updates

It’s important for our professional niche to meet and connect in-person. Our top priority though, is the well-being of the individuals who comprise our AHEPPP: Family Engagement in Higher Education community. As we move forward, we are considering many options that address our new reality:

  • We are working with the conference facility to reserve extra physical space in order to accommodate physical distancing.

  • We will work with facility managers to develop precautionary measures and/or adaptations such as increased sanitization practices at all venues in order to reduce health risks.

  • We will continue to increase remote learning opportunities through webinars, round-tables, and chat-room/listservs.

  • If the National Conference cannot be held in person this fall, we will take the necessary steps to transition to an all-digital conference and/or select a new date in the spring.

Supporting One Another

We know this is an uncertain time and we appreciate your patience and support as we consider the impact of COVID-19 in a rapidly changing environment. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our Executive Director - Lindsay McKinney, Conference Chair - Kristi Okerlund or a member of our Board of Directors.