COVID-19 Resource Center - Seize The Opportunity

National Leadership Conference | COVID-19 Resource Center

After careful deliberation and with a very heavy heart, the BPA Board of Trustees has cancelled the 2020 National Leadership Conference.

Over the past few days, the respiratory illness COVID-19 (coronavirus) has become more of a national and global focus as new cases have been identified. We rely on good public health information and are staying up-to-date on what is shared regarding the coronavirus through various means of communication, including information posted on the www.CDC.gov website, so that we may address the health and safety concerns of our members.

On the evening of Thursday, March 12th, Governor Lawrence Hogan issued an executive order indefinitely prohibiting large gatherings and events within the state of Maryland. Based on this order and all other relevant information gathered, the National Board of Trustees convened an emergency meeting to make the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 National Leadership Conference.

Please know that this decision was not made lightly, and we realize the disappointment that this decision will cause for so many who worked hard throughout the membership year to earn the opportunity to attend NLC. However, there is no greater importance than the health and safety of our student and advisor members.

The BPA experience is a year-round, lifelong learning experience, and the national staff and Board of Trustees are committed to celebrating and showcasing the skills and success of our members. Please continue to stay connected with us through this site, as well as through social media, for additional information as it becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions about NLC

Will chapters be refunded the conference registration fee and hotel deposit/payments since the National Leadership Conference is cancelled?

National BPA will provide a 100% refund on conference invoices for all individuals/chapters who previously registered and made payments. Please allow up to 14 business days for the refunds to be executed.

Additionally, hotel accommodation reservations made through the Conference Registration System have not been sent to the hotels for fulfillment by the time of conference cancellation. No deposits and/or payments will be required.

Will previously purchased travel expenses relating to NLC be refunded or reimbursed?

If you requested shuttle service provided by Conference Direct through the online conference registration process, then you will be refunded 100% of the charges that you have already paid.

National BPA is not responsible for airfare or any other transportation related expenses.You must contact your respective air carrier and/or transportation provider in order to receive a refund or seek an alternative remedy.

Is there any possibility that the National Leadership Conference will be rescheduled?

Without a National Leadership Conference, how will National Officer elections be held?

Will recognition be provided for Ambassador Torch Award recipients?

Will recognition be provided for eligible BPA Cares applications?

Will recognition be provided for eligible President's Volunteer Service Award applications?

Will scholarships that are traditionally announced at NLC still be awarded?