Pack Your Bags!

We can’t wait to see you in Washington, D.C., at ILA’s 24th Global Conference! Before you pack your bags, please take a few minutes to skim this message now for travel tips and logistical information. You’ll be glad you did! 

Before You Go!  

Cellular Service: If you plan to use cellular at the conference to access the conference app and program, make sure your phone and data plan includes service in the USA.  

Dress: Pack what is comfortable for you – including comfortable shoes. There is no dress code, though most people choose “business casual.” Meeting room temperatures vary, so layers can be helpful.  

Other Items: Don’t forget your chargers, converters, water bottle, and business cards – plus anything else you need if you are a presenter.  

COVID / ILA’s Duty of Care 

ILA follows all safety recommendations of the conference hotel, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Currently, masking and vaccination are not required to attend ILA’s 24th Global Conference. The ILA respects and supports each person’s individual choice regarding masking and physical distancing.  

We encourage attendees to be fully vaccinated, pack their favorite masks, and bring rapid tests with them.  

If at any time you experience symptoms of COVID (or other illnesses) such as fever, sore throat, cough, headache, chills, vomiting, sudden loss of smell, etc., please self-quarantine in your room and let ILA know by emailing global2022@ilaglobalnetwork.org with a clear subject line 

Arrival Information 

Conference Venue: The Grand Hyatt Washington, 1000 H Street Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20001. Phone +1.202.582.1234. The hotel is accessible via Metro Train – Metro Center station. 

Transportation: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft serve the region’s airports (DCA, IAD, BWI). DCA has a stop on the Metro Train line. BWI has an Amtrak train stop. Amtrak trains stop at Union Station, a few stops away from the hotel on the Metro Red Line.  

Parking: Parking is available at the Grand Hyatt but less expensive options can be found using Spot Hero. If you park elsewhere, you may pull into the Grand Hyatt entrance on 10th St NW at H Street to unload.  

Checking in to the Conference: Stop by the ILA Check-in & Help Desk to pick up your badge and other goodies. The Check-in & Help desk opens Wednesday 12 October from 18:00-20:00 (6:00-8:00 pm EDT) or Thursday 13 October starting at 8am in the Independence Foyer (5B). On Friday & Saturday, the conference check-in will be in the Grand Foyer (1B).  

Conference Start and End Time: With the exception of pre- and post-conference emersions, the conference begins Thursday 13 October at 17:30 (5:30pm) in the Independence Ballroom (Level 5B) with the opening reception and meet the authors event! The Conference concludes Sunday 16 October with the Awards luncheon (free to ILA members; ticketed for non-members) from 12:15-13:45 (1:45pm).  

Paying Onsite for Registration or Extras: If you arranged to pay onsite or would like to inquire about adding a ticketed event, stop by the ILA Check-In & Help Desk. Credit cards, checks, money orders, and cash (USD) are accepted.   

During Your Stay  

Weather: Please check online for the latest forecast! This is fall in Washington, D.C. There is currently a 60% chance of rain Thursday with temps predicted to range from 40-70 (°F) / 4-22 (°C). 

Food & Beverage: Thanks to the generosity of this year’s sponsors, Thursday’s Opening Reception is followed by continental breakfasts Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; grab-n-go coffee & tea stations; and hearty afternoon refreshments during the Interactive Roundtables and Posters on Saturday. On Sunday, ILA members are treated to an Awards Luncheon that non-members may purchase a ticket to. At other times, delegates are encouraged to invite other attendees to join them outside for fresh air and local fare! 

Dietary Needs & Food Allergies: When selecting menus for events, the ILA tries to ensure that there are food items available to accommodate lacto-ovo vegetarians, vegans, and those who have celiac or who are lactose intolerant. However, we cannot guarantee the absence of cross-contamination or of allergens.

Meeting Spot: From Friday on, the Grand Foyer (Level 1B) is the place to meet!  

Contacting ILA Staff: During the conference, it’s best to just stop by the ILA Check-In & Help Desk during posted hours. You may also call 1.202.470.4818 and leave a message or email global2022@ilaglobalnetwork.org with a clear subject line.  

Program Information & Logistics 

Program Schedule: There are three ways to access the program schedule.   

1) Download the conference app, explore sessions, and create a personal schedule. The app will always have the most up-to-date information. Download flyer with app instructions 

2) Visit our online program 

3 ) Download the second edition of the program book pdf

NOTE: There will not be a printed program! To limit our environmental impact, the ILA is shifting to a Conference App. If you prefer using a printed program, please be sure to print your personal copy from the pdf link above.  

Share Your Learning! Use #ILA2022Global on social to share your conference experience and connect with others.  

Presenter Guide: Presenters, if you haven’t seen the emails about presenting, download the presenter guide here 

Printing: Use FedEx in the lobby of the hotel to print any materials you need. It is open weekdays 7:30-18:30 and Saturday 10:00-14:00. It is closed on Sunday.  

The ILA values inclusion, impact, integrity, and innovation. The global conference functions as a trusted space where a diversity of views, expertise, opinions, backgrounds, and experiences are welcome. Our participants engage in critical and essential dialogue with like- and unlike-minded individuals who all share a passion for leadership and for ILA’s purpose of connecting people worldwide to advance the practice and study of leadership for a just and thriving future. 

We look forward to seeing you later this week for Wisdom in Times of Crisis!  Safe travels!  

The ILA Staff