Dear NCSA 2022 Attendees,
The Covid pandemic, as we all know, is evolving constantly. Please check this page for additional updates as we near our March 2022 gathering.
As you may be aware, NCSA first issued a Covid statement in August 2021, in advance of our 2022 conference registration. The statement is available here: https://ncsaweb.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/NCSA-2022-Conference-Statement-about-Covid.pdf. This statement still applies: we are still planning to gather in person in Rochester in March of 2022 for our first in-person conference in three years.
We will not be able to accommodate hybrid presentations or remote/virtual conference participation. We apologize for this policy, but our AV arrangements in Rochester will not permit us to make Zoom presentations available this year. Please contact NCSA President Susan Cook (susan.elizabeth.cook@gmail.com) if you have suggestions about future conferences.
We are instituting additional Covid-policies and resources:
Vaccines: We have made the decision to require all attendees at NCSA 2022 to show proof of vaccination. If you plan to attend NCSA 2022, please upload a copy of your official vaccination card to this form (https://bit.ly/3EYXVNf) by March 10, 2022. In addition, we will also require proof in printed or electronic form of one of the following upon arrival:
- A booster administered within the 6 months prior to the conference, or
- A negative PCR test no more than 48 hours prior to arrival at the conference.
Waiver: All NCSA 2022 will be required to complete a Covid-19 waiver. Please complete your waiver when you upload your proof of vaccination using this form (https://bit.ly/3EYXVNf) by March 10, 2022.
Masks and other Mitigation Policies:
- We will require masks to be worn in all indoor conference venues by all attendees. Acceptable masks include surgical masks, multilayer cloth masks, and N95/KN95/KF94 masks that fit snugly and that completely and reliably cover your nose and mouth. Masks with air valves, bandanas, neck gaiters, and face shields without masks underneath are not acceptable face coverings. We will make masks available to those who need them.
- When possible, we will enable social distancing in conference rooms and other meeting areas, and will make hand sanitizer available to participants.
- NCSA traditionally holds receptions and breaks with food and beverages. We will continue to offer these, but will indicate them in the program so that participants are aware others may be eating or drinking and therefore unmasked in various venues. When possible, we will ensure options for distancing while dining. We will make some to-go items available.
- Our regular Business Lunch will look a little different this year: we will conduct the Business Meeting and hold the Keynote Address prior to lunch, and make lunch available to-go for members who would prefer to spread out for this meal. Space will also be available for attendees who feel comfortable eating lunch together.
Testing Resources: Rapid testing will be available at several local pharmacies. You can book appointments online for Walgreens or CVS.
- Additionally, the New York State Department of Health website (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you) can help you find local testing facilities.
- We are looking into additional testing options but cannot promise anything at this time.
Refunds: Due to the exceptional circumstances this year, we have made conference registration fee refunds quick and easy. If you register for the conference and are unable to attend due to health and safety concerns, simply email ncsa2022@gmail.com with the subject heading, “conference refund,” and a brief note. We will do our best to respond as soon as possible and provide a refund.