CWR CONFERENCE 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The CWR Conference is an invaluable opportunity to network and gather resources from others who work to communicate and advance the mission of women religious and who know the unique challenges of representing a religious community.

If you are able to attend the conference, we have some tips for making the most of the experience. We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!

What transportation is available from the airport to the hotel? Is there an opportunity to share transportation with other attendees?

The Renaissance Chicago Glenview Suites is located 13 miles from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. While the hotel does not provide airport shuttle service, a variety of ride options are available. A full listing can be found on the airport website. Before departing for Chicago you can also coordinate ride sharing with fellow attendees in the conference mobile app’s activity feed: the 2024 conference will launch on the app during the summer.

What is the dress code?

Attendees of our conference usually dress in business casual or religious attire. It can get chilly in some conference rooms, so we also suggest bringing a sweater or dressing in layers – just in case.

What should I bring with me? 

You may want to pack the following:

  • Your preferred method of taking notes
  • Business cards
  • Phone charger
  • Reusable water bottle / coffee cup
  • Cash for souvenirs, cash bar, etc.
  • Sweater
  • Comfortable shoes
  • COVID tests and masks
  • Samples of some of your materials to share, such as your newsletter or brochures. Leave room in your suitcase so you can take some samples from others home as well. Recommended quantity: 30. (Please plan to take any extras home with you at the end of the conference.)

 

What is the Conference Kickstart?

This is the very first event of the conference! The Kickstart provides attendees with an introduction to conference and an opportunity to get to know other attendees. We encourage attendees both new and experienced to join us for this opportunity to kickstart your conference networking.

What can I expect from the welcome reception?

This year’s reception will include a special celebration of CWR’s 30th anniversary. The welcome reception will kick off the conference in style in the Garden Atrium of the Renaissance Chicago Glenview Suites. Attendees will be treated to appetizers; a cash bar will be available; and games and music will further enliven the evening.

We offer a big thank you to our welcome reception sponsor, the Sisters of Mercy!

What can I expect from conference presentations?

CWR provides professional, thought-provoking, and innovative plenary presentations and workshops that are lecture style with opportunity for Q&A as well as discussion at your table with CWR colleagues. This is an interactive week of activities, so bring your specific questions, projects, and concerns and be ready to share your expertise and experience as well.

Why should I attend the evening out?

First, it’s fun! Also, you will get to know your colleagues in a different setting and make connections you might otherwise miss. So, join us on the party bus to Bowl It Back to the 90s as we throw it back to the rad era of CWR’s birth with a night of cosmic bowling at Wilmette Bowl.

Will the conference mobile app be available this year?

Yes, 2024 conference content will launch on the app in the coming weeks. Once available, be sure to download the app for a dynamic, interactive conference experience! All the information and content you need will be available on the app—schedules, your workshop selections, speaker info, hotel details, photos and video, and more. While printed materials will be limited, all the tools to navigate conference will be at your fingertips on the app.

The app is also a great tool for the social side of conference. Attendees arrange ride sharing in the activity feed. Groups schedule networking sessions like a millennial breakfast meet-up or a lunch gathering for Dominican communicators, as well as after-hours gatherings.

Photo: Renaissance Chicago Glenview Suites Hotel


CWR CONFERENCE 2024 PRESENTED BY