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Attendee Resources

AACRAO IS COMMITTED TO CREATING A POSITIVE MEETING EXPERIENCE FOR ALL ATTENDEES.

This page provides information for Annual Meeting Attendees.  Please contact meetings@aacrao.org if you have questions or need assistance with preparing for a successful Annual Meeting Experience.

Community Guidelines & Expectations

  • AACRAO Code of Conduct

    As a leading voice in higher education, AACRAO envisions a community centered on learner success driven by professional excellence and leadership in enrollment and academic services. The AACRAO Code of Conduct extends the values of collaboration, inclusivity, and integrity to all event attendees, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, differing or disability, physical appearance, neurodiversity, gender identity and expression, or age. AACRAO is committed to providing an environment of respect and civility at all AACRAO events with adherence to high standards of ethical, moral, and legal business conduct.

    By attending an AACRAO event, conference or meeting, you agree to abide by the Code of Conduct below:

    DO:

    • Demonstrate respect and consideration for all people.
    • Be considerate of the multitude of views and opinions that are different from your own.
    • Report conduct concerns to AACRAO event staff so concerns can be addressed responsibly and in a timely fashion.
    • Comply immediately if any leader or facilitator of an activity/session, any official of the platform, or any event official directs you to stop a behavior or delete a comment made in a public forum.
    • Comply with all safety and security protocols as determined by the event organizers.

    DO NOT:

    • Engage in biased, demeaning, intimidating, coercive, or harassing/hostile conduct or commentary toward any event attendee, presenter, staff, or crew member.
    • Retaliate against or disadvantage anyone for reporting a conduct concern or assisting in its resolution.
    • Disrupt the event or engage in harm or threats of harm of any kind..
    • Inappropriately photograph or record without the prior permission of the individuals or owners of the content.
    • Engage in any kind of maltreatment or vandalism of facilities, equipment, or property of others.

    If any attendee or guest engages in behavior contrary to the Code of Conduct, AACRAO staff may take any appropriate action, including warning or expelling the offender from the event without a refund. For more egregious behavior, AACRAO may, in its reasonable discretion, temporarily ban or permanently expel a person from future AACRAO events and the community, and may pursue legal action, if necessary.

    If you are subjected to unacceptable behavior by another attendee, notice that someone else is being subjected to unacceptable behavior, or have any other concerns, please notify AACRAO event staff as soon as possible. All reports will remain confidential.

  • What to Wear

    Business casual attire is recommended throughout the conference. Keep in mind that the convention center is a large space; comfortable footwear for walking between sessions and events is recommended. New Orleans in late April has warm and humid weather with occasional rain; we recommend dressing in layers and bringing an umbrella in case of rain.

  • Seating in Session Rooms

    The AACRAO Annual Meeting will host many popular sessions that may reach capacity. When planning your schedule and attending sessions, please:

    • Arrive early for sessions you have a high interest in attending
    • Make use of all available seats in the meeting rooms, leaving the back row for those with accessibility needs
    • Do not use chairs to store inanimate objects
    • Do not expect an empty chair between every attendee in breakout sessions. Every chair may need to be utilized so that all interested may attend
    • Do not stand along the walls in full session rooms; this creates a safety hazard and is not allowed by the fire marshal
    • Have alternate sessions planned in case a room is full

Staying Connected

Register for the "How to Whova" webinar for Annual Meeting Attendees, hosted by AACRAO Staff on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 2:00 - 2:30 p.m. EDT. This informational webinar will be recorded and posted on this page.


  • WiFi

    Wi-Fi will be available in meeting rooms throughout the Annual Meeting. Network details will be posted at the Registration counter and in the Whova app. To help ensure a positive experience for all attendees, please limit connections to one device per person and avoid streaming video or hosting virtual meetings while connected to the meeting WiFi.

  • Communities in the Whova App

    The Whova Community is an interactive space within the app where attendees can connect, share, and engage before, during, and after the Annual Meeting. Through the Community tab, you can join discussions, participate in icebreakers, share resources, and ask questions directly to event organizers.

    Attendees can create or join meetups to connect around shared interests. Engagement features like leaderboards and photo sharing add a fun, social element while helping you make the most of your Annual Meeting experience.

  • Name Badge Lanyard Colors

    What do the lanyard colors mean?

    • Purple: First-Time Attendee
    • Green: Returning Attendee
    • Royal Blue: AACRAO Board of Directors
    • Turquoise: AACRAO Staff
    • Orange: Corporate Attendee
    • Red: Exhibit Hall Only Corporate Attendee
    • Yellow: Saturday or Sunday Workshop Only
    • White: Monday Only
    • Black: Tuesday Only
    • Navy: Wednesday Only

First-Time Attendees

Attending the AACRAO Annual Meeting for the first time is exciting but can be overwhelming. As a first-time attendee, your perspective, questions, and energy help shape the future of our profession. The AACRAO Annual Meeting is just the start of your AACRAO journey, opening the door to lasting connections, leadership opportunities, and ongoing professional growth.

  • Experience AACRAO for First-Time Attendees
    Sunday, April 19 | 3:15 PM - 4:30 PM

    Complimentary for first-time attendees.

    Experience AACRAO is a “college fair” style event intended to introduce first-time Annual Meeting attendees to the many facets of AACRAO. This format fosters meaningful connections and provides practical advice for navigating the Annual Meeting. AACRAO Ambassadors, Caucus Members, Board Members, and AACRAO Staff will be available to share valuable insights on maximizing the conference experience and becoming more involved in the association. Overall, Experience AACRAO serves as an invaluable introduction for newcomers, ensuring they feel welcomed, informed, and prepared to fully engage with AACRAO.

  • Recorded Webinars for First-Time Attendees

    What to Expect for AAACRAO Annual Meeting First Time Attendees | hosted by the AACRAO Member Engagement Committee on March 5, 2026


    Know Before You Go Q&A and Insider Tips Webinar | hosted by the AACRAO Member Engagement Committee on March 31, 2026

  • Breakout Sessions for First-Time Attendees
    Monday, April 20 | 9:00 AM - 9:50 AM

    In Case You Missed It: Introduction to AACRAO and the Annual Meeting

    Did you miss "Experience AACRAO" for first-time attendees? Or perhaps you are not a first-time attendee, but want to learn more about AACRAO or are feeling overwhelmed with the Annual Meeting schedule? Take advantage of this time to orient (or reorient) yourself with AACRAO and the Annual Meeting. We'll cover AACRAO basics and go over nuts and bolts to help you navigate the conference.


    Wednesday, April 22 | 9:00 AM - 9:50 AM

    Roundtable: First-Time Attendee Wrap-Up

    Make an impact on AACRAO right away by sharing feedback on your conference experience! This roundtable gives first-time attendees to the AACRAO Annual Meeting the opportunity to come back together to network and provide feedback regarding their experiences with AACRAO and the Annual Meeting. Your participation and feedback are essential as they will assist the Member Engagement Committee with future Annual Meeting planning to ensure a welcoming experience for all first-time attendees.

Key Locations

  • Lactation Room

    The lactation will be available throughout the duration of the Annual Meeting. The lactation room will be located on the second floor in Room B201. Power will be available in the lactation room; refrigeration will not be available.

  • Prayer Room

    The prayer room is a private space dedicated to personal religious purposes. The room will be available throughout the duration of the Annual Meeting. The prayer room will be located on the second floor in Room B202.

  • Tranquility Room

    The tranquility room offers a quiet space away from the conference bustle where you can recharge between sessions. Use this space for meditation, light stretching, or simply relaxing. We ask that you keep noise to a minimum and silence your devices so everyone can enjoy a peaceful break. The tranquility room is located on the second floor in Room 225.

  • Lost & Found

    Bring Lost & Found items to the AACRAO Registration Counters. The item will be added to a Lost & Found feature in the Whova App. The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center also has a Lost & Found; if the item you are seeking is not found and returned to the AACRAO Registration Counters; AACRAO staff will assist with contacting Convention Center Security.

  • Parking Information

    The convention center owns and operates multiple parking lots located on the South end of the Convention Center across from Halls H, I and J.  The current daily parking rate is $23.00 per vehicle and $42.00 per oversized vehicle with no in and out privileges. The Convention Center is a cashless venue. Parking fees are paid through the ParkMobile app.


    Hotel Parking Rates:

    Hilton New Orleans Riverside

    Parking: $50/day (self-parking); $58/day (on-site valet)

    The Riverfront Hotel

    Parking: $50/day (on-site valet)

    Embassy Suites New Orleans

    Parking: $44/day (on-site valet)

    Courtyard by Marriott New Orleans Warehouse Arts District

    Parking: $49/day (on-site valet)

    Hampton Inn New Orleans

    Parking: $49/day (on-site valet)

    New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District

    Parking: $56.50/day (on-site valet)

     

Volunteers

Volunteers play a key role in creating a smooth and welcoming conference experience. They help attendees navigate the venue, answer questions, and provide general on-site assistance throughout the meeting.

You’ll find volunteers at registration, outside session rooms, and in high-traffic areas—ready to help with directions, timing, and any quick questions that come up. Their support helps keep the program running on time and ensures attendees have what they need to make the most of the Annual Meeting.

Volunteers are supported by the 2026 Annual Meeting Co-Chairs of Volunteers, Chris Dorsten and Seth Kamen.

Safety & Accessibility

  • Accessibility

    Please refer to the Convention Center Accessibility Webpage for additional information


    Accessibility Q&A


    Will plenary sessions be captioned?
    Yes, the plenary sessions will be captioned with an AI tool.  Captions will display on the large screens at the front of the room.

    Is there guidance on making presentations and slides accessible and inclusive?
    Refer to the Presenter Guidelines page on the AACRAO website for recommendations and templates to help presenters create slides that meet accessibility guidelines.

    Are there accessible transportation options to get to the venue?
    Information about getting to the venue can be found on the MCCNO page on "getting here". As noted on the page, the venue has ample ADA parking.

    Is the main entrance of the convention center wheelchair-accessible? Are the elevators accessible? How obstacle-free is the area where the conference will take place for those with visual impairments? Do the room numbers and elevators have braille labeling?
    The venue is ADA-compliant. The main entrance to the convention center is wheelchair accessible. There are wheelchair-accessible elevators. The first-floor lobby and foyer are mostly large open spaces (except for a few conference booths and tables). Braille labeling is provided at strategic locations throughout the venue. Mobility scooters are available for rent within the venue. Microphones are adjustable; on-site techs will be available to assist in the morning and during time in-between presentations.

    Has the convention center staff had disability awareness training?
    The convention staff has had Federal ADA guidelines training.

    How far is the AACRAO conference location from the disabled parking spaces, the convention center lobby, etc.?
    The conference will take place on the west end of the convention center. The registration counter, exhibit hall, and plenary sessions will be located on the first floor. Breakout sessions, workshops, luncheons, prayer/lactation rooms, speaker-ready room, and staff offices will be located on the second floor. Per the map at the bottom of the venue webpage, there are ADA parking spaces and handicap drop-offs near the venue entrance.

     

  • Dietary Restrictions

    Food items served on-site during the Annual Meeting will be labeled with common food allergens, as well as items that include gluten and dairy. AACRAO can provide an advance copy of the planned menus for meals and refreshment breaks upon request.  Email meetings@aacrao.org for more information.

  • Conference Security

    At the 2026 Annual Meeting, your safety is a priority; we have worked diligently with our hotel and convention center partners in New Orleans to ensure safety plans are in place. We aim to ensure your conference experience is secure, enjoyable, and comfortable.

    • Security in New Orleans: Our hotel partners communicate closely with local law enforcement. Currently, law enforcement is unaware of any planned protests or civil unrest in the downtown area. Should that change, our hotel partners have assured AACRAO they will work with law enforcement, plan accordingly, and communicate these plans to staff members.

    • Emergency Communication System: Conference attendees will receive text messages, app notifications, or emails from AACRAO with updates about potential unrest or any disturbances in the area. Please ensure that your contact details are current with the registration team so you can stay informed.

    • Venue Safety Protocols: The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center has controlled access points; all entry and exit points are under camera surveillance. Their staff has undergone extensive training in emergency procedures, including evacuation and shelter-in-place plans, and will be ready to guide attendees should the need arise.

    • Travel and Transportation Advisory: Should unrest occur in areas near the venue, we encourage you to avoid using public transit during potential unrest. 

    We encourage all attendees to stay vigilant, follow guidance from our team and security personnel, and take personal precautions, such as traveling in groups if you choose to explore New Orleans.

    Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. With your support, we are confident that we can ensure a safe and successful conference experience in New Orleans.

  • Fire Safety Guidelines

    1) No emergency exits, phones, fire extinguishers, defibrillators, alarms, sprinkler valves, or hose connections may be obstructed by booths, drapes, stands, signs, displays, or any other items of decoration.

    2) Every required exit, exit access, or exit discharge must be continuously kept free of all obstruction or impediments to full and instant use in case of fire or any other emergency. No furnishings, decorations or other objects may be so placed as to obstruct exits or visibility to the exits. No hanging draperies, flags, or banners may be placed in front of or over exit doors or exit signs to conceal or obscure. Mirrors may not be placed next to or over exit doors in such a manner as to confuse the direction of the exit. There must be no railings, barriers, or gates that divide the open space from exit access. The required path of travel to exits must not be obstructed by furniture or other movable objects. NOENMCC has the right to request the addition of battery-operated exit signs for any areas where views to the exits are obstructed.

    3) NOENMCC service corridors are an integral part of the NOENMCC path of egress. No equipment, props, cases, etc., may be stored in NOENMCC service corridors.

    4) Decorations and Stage Scenery: Combustible materials must be treated with an effective flame retardant. Stage settings made of combustible materials must also be treated with flame retardant material. Only non- combustible materials or fire-retardant wood may be used for stage scenery or props. All curtains, drapes, carpet, carpet padding, and decorative materials must be made of flame-retardant materials or sprayed with a flame retardant. The NOENMCC rigorously enforces this regulation and may field flame test any questionable materials.

    5) Air-conditioning outlets and return air grills must not be blocked by equipment, drapes, props, etc.

    6) If permanent building graphics are blocked, the Event Organizer and/or general contractor must incorporate directional signage onto their graphic

    7) If any conference booths or signs placed in violation of the NOENMCC fire safety guidelines, immediately notify an AACRAO staff member