Updated March 16, 2020, 2:50 PM

As a result of the cancellation of EAST Conference 2020 on March 17-19, 2020, there are many questions you (and we ourselves) are asking as a result of this difficult and unprecedented decision.

As we work through details related to this change, we are posting information below in the form of a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page.

We will continue to supply updates on this page and via our social media channels as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding and consideration.

What should I do right now as a result of this change?

Please cancel any hotel reservations and travel arrangements you have made. Don’t forget to cancel any special requests (individual school orders) to the Hot Springs Convention Center (such as additional Internet or Power at your booth). Any special booth requests have already been cancelled with Sunbelt (booth company).

Will we have a conference this year?

The possibility of having a physical conference is very small due to the uncertainty concerning public health and safety through the remainder of the school year. However, we are investigating other options to celebrate the accomplishments of EAST students and schools.

Will I get any refunds?

Refunds will be issued as soon as possible to the original payor for senior breakfast tickets, fusion tickets, additional conference participants, and gala tickets. We will be contacting sponsors and exhibitors directly.

When will awards be announced or competitions be hosted?

We are currently working diligently to notify event venues, hotels, attendees, and others who we have event contracts. We will develop a plan to announce awards, the Class of 20-21 and more as soon as possible. We are EAST - we will figure it out!

Sponsor Information?

EAST Initiative appreciates the support of our sponsors for this event. If any event sponsors have specific questions, please email jessica@eaststaff.org.

What about Conference 2021?

We are diligently working to deal with all of the issues surrounding Conference 2020. We appreciate your patience while we do that. Please note that Hotel Contracts have not been signed for next year. We will let you know when we have more information.