There are many ways to add some fun to your professional development at the ASHA Convention—relax and connect with colleagues and friends at these social events.
Some events may require tickets (as noted); tickets may be purchased or reserved through registration.
Welcome (Back!) Reception
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Join us in the Exhibit Hall to catch up with friends and colleagues and mingle with exhibitors. This event provides dedicated time to check out the exhibiting companies and socialize before sessions begin on Thursday. Light refreshments will be available. The Welcome (Back!) Reception is open to all full registrants.
First-Timers' Welcome
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Is this your first ASHA Convention? Come to this popular gathering in the Exhibit Hall 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)
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 contribution or may be purchased (as available) at the door. Cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.
ASHFoundation Fundraiser Reception (Ticketed)
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
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 is needed.
Multicultural Concerns Collective (MC2)
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.
Open Houses (Academic and Affiliated Organizations)
Many colleges and universities, and affiliated organizations, traditionally hold open houses following the Awards Ceremony on Friday evening. Affiliate groups may request function space for receptions or open houses. The request form will be available in June.
ASHA Leadership Q&A: A Membership Chat With the Board
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. 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.
ASHA holds extra function space during the ASHA Convention to support affiliate organizations wishing to host related meetings or receptions. Read more about the process and guidelines and then complete the form to submit a request.