Newcomers Information

Welcome!

If this is your first URMIA annual conference, we are excited to have you join us!

Read this Before Registering

Please explore these special welcome opportunities for newcomers. We'll ask you to indicate your interest in these activities during online registration.

Already registered? No problem. Just contact the National Office and ask to be included.

Conference Ambassadors

We invite every newcomer to request a conference “buddy” who will get in touch with you before the conference to answer questions, meet up with you during your Newcomers Welcome & Orientation session, and introduce you to other URMIA members and attendees.

Experienced URMIA ambassadors are available for both in-person and virtual conference attendees. Indicate your interest during registration and watch your e-mail inbox for follow-up information.

Newcomers Welcome & Orientation

Participate in this event, and you might win one or more prizes! This lively, interactive event gives you an introduction to URMIA and the opportunity to network with other newcomers and URMIA leaders. Those in Seattle will meet up with their conference ambassadors at this session and go together to the Opening Reception. Please RSVP during online registration.

President's Reception

We will send an e-mail invitation for this event. Respond "yes" when asked during online registration if this is your first URMIA annual conference. Then be sure to RSVP to your invitation ASAP.

Make sure your travel plans get you to the conference hotel by mid-afternoon on Saturday so you can check in to your room and pick up a name badge at the URMIA registration desk before the reception.

Steps to a Great Experience

Explore the Schedule

Before you register, browse the full conference schedule to make sure you are familiar with events and activities, as some require prior registration. Click on the event title to see details, including the presenters, learning objectives, and core competencies covered. Use filter options to see events by type and competency, as well as which events are available to virtual attendees.

Make Your Case & Register Early

Whether you are planning to come to Seattle or are choosing the virtual option, check out our Justification Toolkit for help in determining your return on investment (ROI), composing a persuasive justification letter, mapping your professional development, and implementing new ideas after the conference.

Also, be sure to take advantage of the substantial early-bird discount available through August 15.

Get a Room

In-person Attendees

If you are attending the conference in Seattle, we strongly recommend that you book a room at the conference hotel to maximize your opportunities to connect with peers. You’ll be amazed at how many connections take place in hallways, elevators, fitness centers, and other common areas at the conference hotel. We have a room block with special pricing and an extended cancellation period.

Virtual Attendees

If you are part of a virtual attendee group, we encourage you to reserve a conference room on your campus or place of work where you can come to together to attend general sessions and perhaps share a meal.

Arrive on October 16

In-person Attendees

We recommend that you arrive at the conference hotel on Saturday, October 16, by mid-afternoon. This will make it possible for you to attend the Saturday evening President’s Reception - held in your honor by URMIA’s leadership - and a full day of networking activities on Sunday.

Volunteer to Make Connections

We encourage newcomers to sign up for our URMIAcares community service project as well as respond to our Call for Volunteers. These are great ways to make new friends and network!