With the probability of having the 2021 annual conference in Sacramento becoming unlikely, the W.A.C.E. Board pivoted and voted to move the conference to Las Vegas, NV.
“The decision to hold an event in-person, virtually or even at all is one that all of us have had to make too many times this year,” said W.A.C.E. Chair of the Board Glenn Morris, ACE, president/CEO of the Santa Maria Valley (CA) Chamber. “Like you, the Board had to weigh a range of factors and variables and, ultimately, make the choice that we collectively felt was in the best interest of our members and our organization.
“One of the key factors for me was that doing everything possible to hold an in-person conference supports the message so many chambers are championing, namely that it is possible and necessary to allow our businesses to operate successfully.
“I want to thank the W.A.C.E. staff, the conference committee and Board members for evaluating options, doing due diligence and making the decision to move forward.
“I’m confident that all involved will do everything possible to ensure the W.A.C.E. annual conference is safe, informative and a launch pad for future chamber industry success. I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas in February.”
Conference Program
Program decisions are well underway, and plans are to include 16 breakout sessions, several general session speakers and roundtables, and bring back “The Future of Chambers” talks that were so popular at the 2020 conference in Portland.
“We are going to deliver the same high-quality program our members have come to expect — all the while adhering to local health orders and guidelines,” said Conference Chair Jeremy Harris, ACE, president/CEO of the Long Beach Area (CA) Chamber. “This will ensure we continue to assist with professional development of our members, provide programming that is beneficial during these uncertain times, and have conference attendees walking away with practical ideas to help their local communities.”
Registration
Conference registration information is still being finalized, but is expected to be available in late November or early December.
Mark your calendars for February 3–5. 2021 in Las Vegas!