Please Note: The COVID-19 situation in the United States is fluid, and we continue to monitor developments that may impact attendees for our 2022 Internet2 Leadership EXchange. As such, we will continue to update the safety precautions outlined below as appropriate to minimize risks to attendees and staff. In order to stay current, check this page periodically leading up to the event.

Is the Leadership EXchange requiring proof of a COVID-19 vaccination for all attendees?

The Leadership EXchange is requiring all registrants to be fully vaccinated* prior to participating in the in-person event. A COVID-19 booster shot is strongly encouraged as extra protection, and the CDC may update their “fully vaccinated” definition to include a boost before the event.

Attendees who cannot show proof of vaccination will need to provide proof of a recent** negative COVID-19 PCR test or a negative clinician-delivered*** or proctored**** Antigen test (results from rapid antigen self-tests will not be accepted) prior to participating in the conference.

Regardless of vaccination status, if you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, please check the most recent CDC guidelines for isolation, testing, and mask-wearing protocols.

These requirements are consistent with best practices for conferences and other events/activities.

^{*Fully vaccinated status is defined as having received the last required dose of a CDC or WHO recognized COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 weeks before the start date of the event}

^{**PCR test results should be within 48 hours prior to the event; Antigen test results should be within 24 hours prior to the event}

^{***A clinician-delivered test is one administered by a licensed medical professional. Examples include in-person lab testing facilities, pharmacies, and doctor’s offices}

^{****A proctored antigen test can be administered either in-person at a dedicated facility or at home via a telehealth service. Examples of the telehealth option include the Abbott BinaxNow™ Ag Card Home Test paired with eMed’s NAVICA app, and the ellume COVID Test Kit paired with an Azova video observation session (sold separately). This is not a comprehensive list of proctored testing options, nor do we endorse either product listed. We recommend checking with your local health care provider to determine the option that works best for you.}

Is the Leadership EXchange requiring that attendees show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test result?

Attendees who are fully vaccinated* do not need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before participating in the event. Attendees who cannot show proof of vaccination will need to provide proof of a recent** negative COVID-19 PCR test or a negative clinician-delivered*** or proctored**** Antigen test (results from rapid antigen self-tests will not be accepted) prior to participating in the event. We recommend carefully planning to attendees who opt to show proof of a negative test. You should schedule your PCR test on Saturday 10/22 if you plan to pick up your badge on Tuesday 10/25. Most PCR tests aren’t available for lab work on Sundays, so you might consider a proctored/clinician-delivered antigen test as an alternative.

^{*Fully vaccinated status is defined as having received the last required dose of a CDC or WHO recognized COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 weeks before the start date of the event}

^{**PCR test results should be within 48 hours prior to the event; Antigen test results should be within 24 hours prior to the event}

^{***A clinician-delivered test is one administered by a licensed medical professional. Examples include in-person lab testing facilities, pharmacies, and doctor’s offices}

^{****A proctored antigen test can be administered either in-person at a dedicated facility or at home via a telehealth service. Examples of the telehealth option include the Abbott BinaxNow™ Ag Card Home Test paired with eMed’s NAVICA app, and the ellume COVID Test Kit paired with an Azova video observation session (sold separately). This is not a comprehensive list of proctored testing options nor do we endorse either product listed. We recommend checking with your local health care provider to determine the option that works best for you.}

How will the Leadership EXchange verify either vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result?

Registered attendees will show their proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 PCR test or a negative clinician-delivered or proctored Antigen test when they arrive at the registration desk before picking up their name badge.

Is the Leadership EXchange requiring masks at the conference?

The Hyatt Regency Denver does not currently require masks when in public spaces. Internet2 will continue to monitor and update these requirements.

Internet2 strongly encourages all event staff and participants/attendees to wear masks while attending all in-person conference events regardless of the space and/or mask requirement. We also strongly encourage attendees to bring their own masks that cover the nose and mouth, fit snugly against the sides of the face, and can be worn comfortably all day.

We further recommend that attendees wear masks while traveling to and from the event and follow COVID-safe practices in the weeks leading up to the event. If you’ve engaged in activities or behaviors that put you at high risk for COVID-19, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending.

How many people do you anticipate will participate in the in-person event?

We are building the event to accommodate no more than 100 attendees to join us in Denver. Regardless of the size of the conference, we are committed to providing a top-notch and safe experience for those who attend.

Will attendees be required to social distance at the conference?

Currently, there are no social distancing mandates in the State of Colorado. However, we are asking that attendees be mindful of fellow attendees who may be less comfortable with close contact or sharing spaces. Attendees will have the option to add stickers to their badge to indicate their comfort level for close contact.

What if I’m not comfortable shaking hands or being hugged?

We will distribute pandemic etiquette messaging, letting attendees know about protocols such as whether it is okay not to handshake or hug, reminding attendees to wash or sanitize hands often and to always respect others’ personal space. This will include signage to raise awareness about etiquette, as well as badge sticker options to display your personal preferences for how other attendees should expect to engage with you.

Will the Leadership EXchange be providing masks on-site? Hand sanitizer?

Masks will be available on-site if you need one. Hand-sanitizing stations will be available by each entrance to the meeting room as well at each refreshment break or meal set up.

Are there testing centers near the hotel?

The City of Denver maintains a list of testing sites. Note some of these providers require appointments and pre-enrollment, so please plan ahead.

What if I test positive during the conference or just after?

If you test positive for COVID-19 during the conference, please check with your health care provider to make sure your basic health and wellness needs are met. Please inform meetings@internet2.edu of your situation.