Greetings from the WAVES Executive Board!
Planning for the WAVES 2022 Portland Conference is well underway and there is current news to be shared.
Due to the ongoing issues with COVID and travel restrictions of the VA Central Office (VACO) staff, we have been notified that the conference in July will require VACO staff to conduct their presentations remotely. While this is unfortunate for agenda planning purposes and attendee interaction, WAVES willprovide continued, focused training to attendees IN-PERSON, WITH the ability to have face-to-face, real time interaction with VACO staff. that will be beneficial.
After their presentations, VACO staff will be available to answer questions during follow up Q&A periods. You will be able to “see” them and they will be able to “see” you. You will be able to ask specific questions and receive responses from the National Training Team immediately.
There will also be in-person conference sessions with presenters from the State Approving Agencies and Tungsten representative (for those Chapter 31 questions/ issues) as well as WAVESconference favorite – Jarod Lyon, President/CEO, Student Veterans of America will be a presenter. Additionally, the Eyes of Freedom traveling memorial https://www.limacompanymemorial.org/ will be on site during the conference. This travelling memorial is dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of all who answer our Nation’s call.
The executive board hopes to see you in attendance at the conference this year. The planning and implementation of this conference have proven to be extremely difficult for all involved. While the conference format is going to reflect a significant change from years past. Hopefully you will take the opportunity to attend conference, continue making lifelong connections with fellow SCO’s across the nation, strengtheningyour skills and knowledge, and ultimately, provide the best service possible to your campus student veteran populations.
Please be aware that due to technical challenges and costs, the conference will NOT be held as a hybrid event. Only through in-person attendance will you have ability to receive SCO training credits and participate in the conference.
We know it remains a difficult time for everyone and are hoping that you will still feel the need to attend this year’s conference in wonderful Portland, Oregon. Hope to see you in July!
Conference and Hotel Registration information:
The Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency® Portland at the Oregon Convention Center. The link to book hotel accommodations is:
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/PDXRP/G-GXFD
Conference registration will be opening soon. Please continue to monitor the WAVES website for the most current information.
The conference will begin at 8:00 am PST on Monday, July 18, 2022 and end on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at 3:30 pm PST.
Registration cost: $550.00
Institutional Membership Fee: $100.00 (per institution)
Tracy Copeland
WAVES President
Director of Financial Aid
Toni & Guy
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