Many different social events provide time for attendees to relax and connect with colleagues and friends. From the Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall to networking meet-ups for specialty groups, there are many ways to add some fun to your professional development at the ASHA Convention.
Some events may require tickets (as noted); tickets may be purchased or reserved through Registration.
First-Timers' Welcome
5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Is this your first ASHA Convention? Come to this popular gathering to get an overview of our annual event and to preview programs and activities slated for the next three days. You'll have an opportunity to meet the ASHA president and Convention co-chairs, as well as other ASHA staff and volunteer representatives who can provide answers and guidance for your first ASHA Convention. The First-Timers' Welcome is also a great opportunity to connect with others attending for the first time. Enjoy light refreshments.
ASHA-PAC Reception (Ticketed)
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
All ASHA members are invited to spend the evening with the ASHA-PAC Board. This special event benefits the ASHA Political Action Committee, which serves as the political voice of the audiology and speech-language pathology professions on Capitol Hill. Tickets are available through registration only to ASHA members for a $60* contribution or may be purchased (as available) at the door. Cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.
*All new ASHA-PAC contributors who attend the event pay only $30 at the door!
Welcome in the Exhibit Hall
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Join us in the Exhibit Hall to catch up with friends and colleagues and mingle with exhibitors. This break provides dedicated time to check out the exhibiting companies, socialize, and network, all while recharging your battery with light snacks before you head to the evening sessions. The Welcome in the Exhibit Hall is open to all fully registered attendees.
ASHFoundation Fundraiser Reception (Ticketed)
7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Enjoy a night filled with innovation, great food, and an even greater spirit of community—all for a great cause. Tickets are nonrefundable and may be purchased through Registration as supplies last.
Proceeds support the ASHFoundation's innovation mission to change people's lives.
International Reception
7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Welcome, international participants! Please join ASHA leadership and international staff for the annual International Reception and enjoy networking and mingling with your colleagues from around the world. Your international colleagues look forward to meeting you! Cash bar. No RSVP needed.
Multicultural Concerns Collective (MC2)
8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Join us for this lively and enlightening networking reception. You'll have an opportunity to connect with participants in this year's Minority Student Leadership Program, and colleagues from the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing (NBASLH), the L'GASP-LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender), Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, Asian Indian Caucuses and Native American Caucuses. We hope to see everyone there!
Audiology and Hearing-Related SIGnificant Luncheon
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Are you interested in ASHA's hearing-related Special Interest Groups (SIGs)? Audiology members and audiology students, as well as affiliates of SIGs 6, 7, 8, and 9 or those interested in joining, are invited to an exclusive luncheon. Mix and mingle with like-minded professionals. SIGs offer a number of additional benefits for ASHA members. Seating at this free lunch is limited (first-come, first-served), so plan to arrive early!
"Hear, Here!" Audiology Open House
8:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
ASHA is excited to host this unique gathering of audiologists and audiology students! This special open house will follow the ASHA Awards Ceremony. Stop by to network with your colleagues while sampling hors d'oeuvres.
Open Houses (Academic and Affiliated Organizations)
8:30 p.m. – midnight
A number of colleges and universities, and affiliated organizations, traditionally hold open houses following the Awards Ceremony on Friday evening.
ASHA Leadership Q&A: A Membership Chat With the Board
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
The ASHA Leadership Q&A: A Membership Chat With the Board, formerly the ASHA Member Forum, provides an opportunity for you to meet with the ASHA Board of Directors and staff to learn about organization objectives and initiatives. You are also invited to offer feedback on the direction and activities of the Association. We want to hear what you imagine that ASHA could do for you! Pick up a feedback form at the ASHA Member Services Center to fill out and bring to the Leadership Q&A and come with your questions, concerns, and ideas.
Closing Party (Ticketed)
7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Tickets may be purchased through Registration as supplies last—the Closing Party is a popular event!