For Conference Session Chairs
Thank you for serving as a Session Chair for the 2013 Annual Conference! Much of the success of the conference rests on the efficient and consistent execution of our presentations, workshops and sessions.
We know that a well-prepared Session Chair can help ensure that the speakers give high quality, trouble-free talks and that the audience appreciates the entire session. Your program coordinator is available to guide you through the logistics, but to also help with anything you need in making your session successful.
You are the leader of the session. As the chair, you introduce speakers, ensure the session proceeds according to schedule and facilitate any dialogue between the presenters and the audience – all while maintaining a friendly and relaxed environment. Many presenters (and chairs!) are nervous before their presentations, so it falls to the chair to put everyone at ease – and the more prepared you are, and your speakers are, the easier it is to feel comfortable when your session starts and the presentation begins.
Included here are critical deadlines and a few sample letters. Also included is a change request form that lets you make the changes needed to your session – speakers, descriptions, etc – before the final program is printed.