GUIDELINES
FOR PROGRAM CHAIRPERSONS
Before the Conference
It is our aim to present the highest quality educational program possible. We believe that your participation as a
program chair is essential to help us reach that goal and we welcome your suggestions and comments as to program
content, schedule and speaker selection.
The faculty should be made up of the best possible speakers chosen on the basis of experience, knowledge,
reputation, communication skills and diversity. Experts and public officials with high visibility can contribute
greatly as keynote or featured speakers. The use of panels representing diverse positions on controversial issues is
encouraged.
Please familiarize yourself with our Guidelines for Speakers and Guidelines for Written Materials that we have
(or will have) provided to all faculty members. Make sure that all of the other speakers are aware of them and
encourage them to pay particular attention to the deadline for getting the written materials to us.
Go over the scope of each speaker’s topic with him or her to make sure there is a clear understanding as to content
and subject matter and that there is as little duplication or overlapping with other speakers as possible.
During the Conference
We expect you to be present during the entire seminar (or at least that portion which you are chairing if there is a
co-chair). There will be a place for you on the dais.
Detailed written biographical information about each speaker will be provided for you to allow you to introduce
each faculty member.
It will be your responsibility to moderate the program. Most important is a strict adherence to the time schedule as
outlines in the brochure. We will advise each speaker that you will strictly enforce all specified time limits.
If times have been set aside for questions and answers or for panel discussions it is a good idea for you to prepare a
few questions in advance in the event you are faced with a shy audience.
We would like to work together with you and the faculty to make sure we fo