Embedded Files
Pre-Conference Communications
As we get ready to welcome you to WACE 2026, we know that inboxes can get busy and important emails sometimes get buried. This section is a resource hub where you can easily access key information we’ve previously communicated with conferees.
EMAIL: Preparing for WACE 2026: Travel, Packing & Session Preview
EMAIL: Your Guide to WACE 2026: What to Expect & Tips for Success (First-Time Attendee Guide)
EMAIL: WACE 2026 Is Almost Here: What You Need to Know Before You Arrive
EMAIL: WACE 2026 Starts Soon! - What to Know Before You Arrive
What to Expect
WACE is a blend of high-level learning and intentional community building. You’ll find over 60 educational sessions, a bustling Exhibit Hall featuring 55 corporate partners, and plenty of opportunities to connect with housing colleagues in the region
First Time Attendee/New Pros Orientation Join the WACUHO Executive Committee and New Professionals Chairs on Sunday, March 22, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM for your first welcome to WACE 2026. This orientation is designed to help you navigate the conference with ease, providing a strategic overview of the days ahead and an exclusive "insider’s look" from WACE experts. Start your conference experience by building vital connections with regional leadership and fellow colleagues.
"Night on the Town"
While we provide several community meals, we also leave space for you to explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Our "Night on the Town" is the perfect time to grab a group of new friends and try a local San Diego staple!
Fun (and Optional) Socials
From our Sunday kick-off at The Shout House! to trivia and wellness activities, these socials are designed to help you decompress and build relationships outside of formal sessions.
*All conferees attending the opening event on Sunday at The Shout House must be 21 year of age or older, and present a valid photo ID.
Meals
Included in your conference registration are meals for Sunday dinner, Monday lunch, Tuesday lunch, Tuesday dinner and Wednesday brunch. These mealtimes are a great time to sit with a new group of colleagues, and are a balance of informal networking and formal presentations.
Looking for breakfast options? We invite you to the hospitality suite for continental breakfast, but ask that you please enjoy the food in the suite or your room out of respect for hotel policies.
Exhibits Hall
As a conferee, you will engage directly with Corporate Partners who are advancing the future of campus housing. Explore new products and services, discover creative solutions, and build relationships with professionals who understand the work you do every day. Be sure to build time into your schedule to fully experience the hall.
Arrive on time for the Exhibit Hall opening to be eligible for our Early Bird prize drawing. You must be present to win, so plan accordingly.
And do not miss WANGO. Pick up your WANGO card, visit each Corporate Partner listed, and complete your card to be entered for additional prizes. It is a fun, interactive way to connect with every booth and maximize your Exhibit Hall experience.
Tips to Maximize Your WACE Experience
Make a Plan
Once the conference app and session schedule are released, go through each day to save all sessions you have an interest in attending. Be sure to add a few in case a session reaches capacity. Even better, make a plan with colleagues to attend different sessions and share the knowledge!
Sit Somewhere New
It’s tempting to stay with your own campus team, but we encourage you to be intentional! Choose a new table at lunch or introduce yourself to the person sitting next to you in a session.
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch
Have a 30-second introduction ready! Share who you are, your current role, and one thing you’re passionate about in housing.
Join the Case Study Competition
This is a fantastic way for first-timers to get involved. There will be a Facilities Case Study and a New Professional Case study offered. You’ll collaborate in small groups to solve a realistic housing scenario and present your ideas to a panel of experts. It’s a fast track to building a professional network. See Case Studies for more information.
WACE Mobile App
WACE 2026 App Available for Download!
Learn more about all of these amenities and events in the WACE 2026 app! You will receive an additional email with download instructions.
Check your email for a personalized link to get started!
Keep the following in mind as you pack:
Professional Attire
Business casual is recommended for all sessions. Sunday and Wednesday are travel days and you are welcome to dress comfortably. Tuesday is Institution Day, so wear institutional attire to show some pride! The Grand Banquet takes place on Tuesday night where we encourage folks to dress to impress.
Accessibility and Navigation
Our venues are centrally located, but please plan for short walks between session rooms and evening events.
Refillable Water Bottles
Hydration stations will be available in all conference rooms.
Meeting Environment
We recommend bringing a light sweater or blazer, as meeting room temperatures can vary.
Business Cards
There will be a variety of networking opportunities where you may want to exchange contact information with other attendees. There are also opportunity drawings during the Exhibitor Hall where you can drop off business cards!
No business cards? No problem! This year, you can utilize a custom QR printed on your conference name badge to connect with other conferees and exhibitors through the app!
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse