Registration & Attendance
Who should attend the ACCT Leadership Congress?
The Congress is designed for community college trustees, presidents, chancellors, board professionals, government relations staff, and higher education partners who are interested in governance, leadership, advocacy, and emerging issues affecting community colleges.
Do presenters need to pay to attend the conference?
Yes. Individuals selected to present are responsible for registering for the conference. Presenters do not receive complimentary registration unless otherwise specified by ACCT.
Can I register on-site?
Yes, on-site registration will be available; however, attendees are encouraged to register in advance to take advantage of discounted rates and avoid delays.
What is included with my registration?
Registration includes access to general sessions, breakout sessions, the Welcome Reception, college tours, and designated conference meals (with package or tickets) and networking events. Pre-Congress Academies require an additional registration fee.
Can I transfer my registration to another person?
Yes, you can transfer your registration to another person.
Hotel & Travel
Where is the conference being held?
The 2026 ACCT Leadership Congress will take place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago in Chicago, Illinois.
How do I reserve a hotel room?
Hotel reservations can be made through the official housing link available once you register for the conference.
What is the hotel reservation deadline?
The hotel reservation deadline is September 28, 2026, or until the room block sells out.
Can I stay at another hotel?
Yes, attendees may stay wherever they choose; however, ACCT recommends booking within the official room block to take advantage of negotiated rates and to support the conference.
What airport should I fly into?
Chicago is served by both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW).
Program & Schedule
When will the full schedule be available?
The schedule will be updated regularly on the Congress website as speakers and sessions are confirmed. The full schedule should be available by the end of September.
How do I find my committee or board meeting time?
The Schedule-at-a-Glance and detailed program on the Congress website will include all Board, Committee, Regional, and affiliated group meetings.
How do I know where my session is located?
Session locations will be available in the conference mobile app, printed program materials, and onsite signage.
What should I wear?
Business casual attire is appropriate for most conference activities. Meeting rooms can be cool, so attendees may wish to bring a sweater or jacket.
How many people attend the conference?
The ACCT Leadership Congress typically attracts more than 1,500 trustees, presidents, and community college leaders from across the country.
Voting Delegates
Who are the voting delegates?
Voting delegates are members of an ACCT Member College board that have been selected by their board to attend the ACCT Leadership Congress and vote on behalf of the institution in ACCT elections and on association-wide matters. Voting delegates must be voting members of their board.
How are voting delegates selected?
Each college board decides for itself how to select its voting delegates. ACCT only requires that each individual must be a voting member of their board.
Where do you sign-in as a voting delegate?
The Voting Delegate desk will open at 7am on Wednesday, October 21st, and is located near the registration desk.
When do voting delegates vote?
On Thursday, October 22nd at 2pm during the Regional Caucuses, and on Friday, October 23rd at 8:30am during the Senate Meeting.
Pre-Congress Academies & College Tours
What are Pre-Congress Academies?
Pre-Congress Academies are in-depth learning opportunities held before the official start of Congress. Separate registration may be required.
Do I need to register separately for a College Tour?
Yes. College Tours require advance registration and space may be limited.
What happens if a tour sells out?
Attendees may be placed on a waitlist if available.
Accessibility & Special Requests
How do I request ADA accommodations?
Attendees can indicate accommodation needs during registration or contact ACCT staff in advance of the event.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes. Dietary restrictions should be noted during registration.
Policies
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation and refund policies are outlined on the Congress registration page.
Can I bring a guest?
Certain events may permit guests. Additional guest registration information will be available on the Congress website.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please contact the ACCT Events Team at [email protected] for assistance.