Speakers’ Corner
Frequently Asked Questions from Our Speakers
Our 2025 National Convention in Atlanta will be here before we know it and we are so excited that you’ll be joining us as a speaker!
If you have been scheduled to speak, you will receive an email confirmation with details about the time and speaking location. We will provide you with a map of the hotel and the room in which your breakout session will be held once we have finalized all sessions, around mid-August.
When the Convention begins, please make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled session and check in at the Convention Registration Desk to receive your credentials.
GENERAL CONVENTION QUESTIONS
Where is the Convention being held? When should I make my room reservation?
The 2025 National Convention will be held at The Loews Atlanta Hotel in Midtown Atlanta. Discounted reservation rates are available now through the NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists room block, but this block will be filled quickly so reserve your room soon!
How should I register for the Convention?
Speaker registration is now open. Convention Speakers will receive a complimentary One-Day Only registration for the day of their speaking session. You will receive an email confirmation for the day of your registration. If you would like to attend additional convention days, we offer a discounted Speaker Registration rate for $295. Speakers should have received a special registration link. If you have not received yours, please email ellen@nlgja.org. All speakers MUST register by July 1.
Do I need to be a member to speak at the Convention?
Membership is not required to speak at the Convention, but you should consider becoming a member! Membership dues help to support our annual convention, strengthen the viability and visibility of the association, and signal your commitment to fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ communities and issues. Even if you do not identify as LGBTQ+, allies are always welcome! Join NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists Today!
Can I present remotely?
By agreeing to participate as a breakout or plenary session speaker, you are also agreeing to present in-person at The Loews Atlanta Hotel on the assigned day and time. As a part of returning to in-person meetings and events, the convention will not be available to a virtual audience.
What do I need to submit to the Convention organizers?
All speakers must register by July 1. Please email ellen@nlgja.org to receive your registration link and be prepared to submit the following information:
Bio (Up to 200 words)
Headshot (Print Quality, minimum 2″ x “3, 300 dpi)
Pronouns
Professional Title
Company / Organization
All Social Media Handles or Website
SESSION-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
Can I arrange a sponsor for my panel?
Some sessions at the 2025 National Convention may be sponsored, but these sponsorships will be arranged by the NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists staff. If your panel is sponsored, Development & Marketing Director Caitlin DeLatte will be in contact with the panel coordinator with any specific instructions.
Please note: any and all panel, workshop and plenary sponsorships must be arranged in advance by NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists’ Development & Marketing Director. A few words of recognition of an employer and/or project is permissible, but additional recognitions or lengthy remarks about a company or organization may interfere with existing sponsorship commitments and hamper the association’s fundraising efforts. For more information please contact Development & Marketing Director caitlin@nlgja.org.
How long are the sessions?
Breakout sessions are one hour (60 minutes) long.
I need audio/visual equipment for my presentation. Will it be available?
All breakout rooms will be equipped with standard audio/visual equipment (projector and screen, and three microphones). You must provide your own computer. We will also have a limited number of dongles (adapters) for use, though it is highly advised that you bring your own. Please note that the internet access in the room is the general meeting access provided to all attendees and will likely not support streaming or large downloads. Please plan your presentation accordingly.
Will wi-fi be available for my presentation?
Wi-fi connections are available throughout the host hotel. Access to an internet connection is based on usage so access cannot be guaranteed at all times. Please make a backup plan should you plan to use an internet connection during your presentation.
Please make sure to download all presentation materials prior to your session. NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists cannot guarantee internet access for any presentation.
If you do require the internet for your presentation, please contact ellen@nlgja.org with your request for dedicated access.
Can I include printed materials in my presentation?
We encourage you to go green at the 2025 National Convention. The association will not print copies of handouts or materials for your breakouts or panels. We can make downloadable content available from the online convention program. Please provide materials by August 1, 2025.
If you would like to provide printed materials, expect between 20-40 attendees in each breakout session and up to 250 attendees in each plenary.
Will I receive feedback on my session?
At the end of your session, please encourage attendees to leave feedback! They can do so directly in the Sched app/website or by scanning the QR at the back of the convention book. We will provide feedback to you post-convention.
What are some best practices for breakout sessions?
In our experience, here are some additional best practices for your session:
DIVERSITY IS KEY! Please make sure that your panel reflects the diverse background of our members in regards to gender identity, sexuality, ethnic background and age.
Sessions should not have more than four speakers (including the moderator)
We reserve the right to add speakers/panelists to your breakout session. Our team is also happy to assist you in securing panelists.
Leave room for questions and interaction throughout your session
Have a diverse roster of speakers, rather than giving a solo performance
Meet with your speakers ahead of the session to prepare what you are going to share
Give attendees a resource, like a tip sheet or useful links, with key take-aways from your presentation
Any other questions?
