The Carnegie Conference is back! After having to cancel this past year, we’ve never been more ready to celebrate the 10th annual Carnegie Conference returning to Walt Disney World’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts this coming January.
Over the past decade, we’ve strived to provide the most innovative and forward-thinking content in the education marketing conference circuit. Looking outside the industry for inspiration for what’s next, we have filled the stage with best-selling authors, award-winning marketers, storytelling experts, and best-in-show conversion geniuses. So what can you expect from next year’s conference? Even more—much more.
As we build our agenda and fill our speaker panel for the 2022 conference, we want to be sure you have all the information you need to make room on your calendar for this event. We’ll continue to update the conference pages over the next several months, but here’s everything you need for now, including answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Why you should attend the Carnegie Conference
Let’s get this started with the most common question we hear: “Why should I attend the Carnegie Conference?” Our answer: Because there’s nothing else like it on the education recruitment marketing conference circuit. Nothing.
We’re convinced this event is amazing, but don’t take my word for it. Here’s what previous attendees have said—and many return year after year:
- “Highly recommended.”
- “Thank you for something different. Refreshing.”
- “One of the best conferences I’ve been to. Very relevant information from within and outside the higher ed field. And I didn’t feel like I was getting a sales pitch, just useful info I can take back to my campus.”
Frequently asked questions about the Carnegie Conference
Here are a few of the other most common questions we hear:
Q: There are tons of education conferences throughout the year; what makes the Carnegie Conference so different?
A: Our agenda and content are unlike any other conference in our space. Presentations are carefully curated to ensure they are timely, appropriate, unique, and on the cutting edge. Unlike many conferences, we don’t call for proposals. Rather, we develop our schedule based on attendee feedback, requested sessions, and industry experts’ recommendations; it does not include sessions you may have seen listed on several other conference agendas. One of our biggest efforts is bringing non-education experts in and leveraging their knowledge and expertise for the higher education perspective.
Q: Who should attend?
A: Anyone focused on recruitment marketing at an education institution will find this program beneficial. From big-picture concepts to tactical advice, we fill our agenda with valuable and inspiring content and speakers. Also, this conference is big enough to network but small enough that you won’t feel lost in the crowd.
Q: Is this a user conference for Carnegie clients only?
A: Absolutely not! Everyone is welcome. This conference does not focus on Carnegie services or products; rather, it’s an overall integrated marketing program open to all recruitment marketing professionals. But if you are curious about what Carnegie has to offer, our team will be there to answer any questions you might have.
Q: With your recent merger with Underscore, will there be Slate-specific sessions?
A: Absolutely. We’re working on breakouts specifically to focus on the power of Slate. Keep an eye on the agenda as we build this out.
Q: Will there be COVID-19 safety measures in place?
A: We will be following not only our safety protocols but also Disney’s and the CDC’s. Currently, Disney is requiring three-foot socially distanced seating with mask wearing at all times while indoors, but we will update you if this changes. Your safety is our priority, and we’ll be doing everything we can to ensure that this event is following all recommended measures.
Q: What meals are included?
A: Full bellies = active minds. That’s why we’ve got you covered for meals! Both mornings include a continental breakfast. We have full buffet lunches Wednesday and Thursday. And Wednesday night is our fantastic buffet dinner with an amazing dessert spread and open bar.
Q: What about fun?
A: On Tuesday night before the conference, we have a networking happy hour to meet and greet fellow attendees, speakers, and the Carnegie team. Then Wednesday night is an event you won’t forget! We’re talking a reserved space in Epcot, full dinner, open bar, private patio viewing of the nighttime fireworks show, and great people. Plus, throughout the conference, we know you’ll find the presentations—and the presenters—engaging, insightful, and fun.
Q: When and where is the Carnegie Conference?
A: The 10th annual Carnegie Conference will be held on January 19–20, 2022, at the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts at the Walt Disney World Resort in central Florida.
Q: What does it cost?
A: Keeping costs down is one of our top priorities. The registration fee is $995 (but you can save $100 if you register before October 31!), a rate well below many other conferences. Also, we were exacting with our hotel choice based on the per-night room rate. We are happy to offer a $285/night rate at a luxury Disney hotel. This rate is also honored for three days before and after the conference for your extended enjoyment. Book quickly, as rooms are limited!
Q: Okay, I’m definitely coming! How and when can I register?
A: Register here and now! And follow the conference back channel on Twitter with #CarnegieConf.
Q: What do I wear?
A: One of the most common things we’re asked about is attire! First and foremost: we want you to be comfortable. During the day, outfits range from business casual to casual. During the nighttime events, we encourage you to be casual as we will be outside and walking a bit. Most of the attendees will be in jeans (including me!).
Learn more about the Carnegie Conference 2022
Want more information? Feel free to contact conference@carnegiedartlet.com or me directly at mjd@carnegiedartlet.com. I’m a fanatic of both Carnegie and Disney, so I’ll be able to answer all your questions! You can also follow me on Twitter @meghdale.