The Appalachian Studies Association Steering Committee is carefully monitoring the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other public health agencies regarding the spread of COVID-19. At this point, the conference will be proceeding as planned. We are taking precautions to safeguard the health of all who attend.
This afternoon, we had a spirited discussion about the implications of both cancelling and proceeding with the conference. We decided today to proceed, but it was not a unanimous decision. There are valid arguments in favor of proceeding and cancelling that include justice, inclusivity, the sustainability of ASA, commitments to our special guests, and the extensive preparations by all those involved including organizers, presenters, and participants. In addition, this decision is based on information we have today, and this information is changing daily.
We understand that some of you might not be able to attend the conference for a number of reasons. If you are not going to attend and have already registered, please take 30 seconds to complete this form at the link below by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, March 10. We know that this is short notice, but we need to move quickly to under the circumstances.
PLEASE DO NOT CALL OR EMAIL ASA OR THE CONFERENCE ORGANIZERS; COMPLETE THIS QUICK FORM AT THE LINK ABOVE. EVEN IF YOU HAVE ALREADY CANCELLED, PLEASE COMPLETE THE FORM SO WE CAN GENERATE A COMPREHENSIVE LIST.
As many of you may know, ASA relies almost solely on the conference for our annual revenue and the deadline for a refund was February 24th. However, we understand that this is a unique situation and paying the registration fee can be a challenge for some of our members. As such, we are considering the best way to manage this in the most financially-responsible and responsive way.
If you are unable attend and have made hotel arrangements, please contact your hotel directly for their refund policies.
Please know that your health and that of all registrants is our top priority. We will act in accordance with guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and other public health agencies. We know this is a stressful time, and we thank you for your patience and understanding.