We understand that being a new SAA member and attending a large conference for the first time can be a daunting experience. That’s why we provide a variety of opportunities and programs to help you survive—and thrive!—at ARCHIVES * RECORDS 2026 and beyond.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee, an archives student, a new professional, or a new member, we hope this collection of information and tips will help you easily navigate the conference. Attending virtually only? SAA utilizes Whova as its online meeting platform. Whova uses Zoom to cast events on the platform. Hybrid, virtual only, and some in-person events are accessible to all attendees via Whova. Recorded sessions (including those that are in-person only) and events will be available on the platform after the conference.
- Education Sessions: All conference registrants are welcome to attend any education sessions and move freely between sessions. Be sure to display your name badge to gain admission to all in-person sessions and events. You will receive access to all recorded sessions post conference.
- The Expo Hall: In the Expo Hall, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to talk with our industry partners, share your ideas and opinions, and learn about what’s new in the field. What products and services do you need to ensure sustainability and access? Tell our exhibitors! And be sure to stop by the Professional and Graduate Student Poster Presentations, where you’ll learn about the latest topics in archives and records management. The Grand Opening of the Expo Hall is from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. CT on Thursday, and the Expo Hall is open again on Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CT. See the online program for a complete schedule, including receptions, Poster Presentations, and Exhibitor Mini-Theater Presentations.
- Student Paper and Poster Presentations: Session 403: Emerging Voices in Archives (Friday, July 31, 1:00 -2:15 pm) provides four students with the opportunity to present papers selected (from many outstanding submissions) by the 2026 Program Committee’s Student Program Subcommittee. Additionally, graduate student posters will be displayed during Exhibit Hall hours on Thursday and Friday and on the online conference platform. Attendees may view posters on their own schedules, as well as have informal, one-on-one conversations with the presenters at set times during the meeting. See the online schedule.
- SAA Group Meetings: SAA will host a variety of events and governance activities virtually in May and June prior to the Annual Meeting, including the SAA Research Forum, SAA Section meetings, and appointed group (i.e., committee, board, and task force) meetings. These are free to attend. RSVP is required for Webex security.
- Students and New Archives Professionals (SNAP) Section: SAA’s SNAP Section was founded in 2012 to advocate for students, interns, new professionals, early-career project archivists, and archivists looking for their first professional jobs. Attending the SNAP meeting is a great way to kick-off your conference experience!
- All Member/First-Timer Coffee Break: All attendees are welcome to join representatives of SAA’s Membership Committee, Key Contacts Program, Council, Foundation Board, and staff for a casual conversation about how to make the most of your time at the conference. Join us on Thursday, July 30, for coffee to get your day started.
- Navigator Program: The SAA Membership Committee sponsors the Navigator Program, which matches conference veterans with first-time attendees. This informal outreach effort helps newcomers (like you!) make the most of their time at the conference. Navigators share their experiences, advise on sessions and special events, and facilitate networking with other attendees. Navigators typically contact participants prior to the meeting and are encouraged to answer questions by email in advance. They will also arrange to meet new attendees in person at the conference. All attendees are welcome to request a navigator or volunteer to serve in this important role. Apply by June 15! For questions, please contact Lexy deGraffenreid (ld9624@princeton.edu) or Danielle Sangalang (dsangalang@massart.edu).
- SAA Career Services Commons - Online and Open to All in June: Hosted by SAA's Membership Committee, the Career Services Commons provides services and opportunities for job seekers through the SAA website and in-person at the conference. Services include career advising, interview presentation practice, mock interviews, and resume/cover letter review. Find more information about the program and sign up for an appointment.
- “Lunch Buddy” Program: Launched in 2012 by SAA’s SNAP Section, the Lunch Buddy program helps students, new archivists, and first-time Annual Meeting attendees to network with colleagues and mentors across SAA. Meet-ups are arranged by a volunteer coordinator who will serve as the point of contact, select the time and place, and identify an optional theme or topic for discussion. Anyone may coordinate or attend a Lunch Buddy meet-up, regardless of experience in the profession or meeting attendance. Please see SNAP's open Google Drive spreadsheet to volunteer as a coordinator, sign-up as an attendee for an existing meet-up, or learn more about the program.
- Rideshare/Roomshare/Housing Program: This program connects SNAP Section members and other conference attendees who may need to share rides to/from/during the conference or share lodging, and offers a space for those living in the conference area to offer a room in their home as a place for others to stay during the conference. These arrangements can significantly reduce the overall costs of attending the conference and help those with limited or no travel funding to attend. Anyone may add to the spreadsheet if they have a ride or room/roommate space to offer, or if they are seeking a ride, room, or roommate. Please see SNAP’s Google spreadsheet if you are seeking a ride/roommate or would like to share a ride or room with someone.
- Alumni Mixers: Many graduate education programs sponsor mixers during the conference. Take this chance to mix and mingle with alumni from your education institution. For a complete list of mixers taking place Friday, see the online schedule.
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