Putting in a Bid

Hosting a NAAUC conference is an excellent opportunity for your College and University to show off its wares. Let over 200 delegates come and stay in your home for a week, introduce them to your College culture, your town and the unique aspects of your College. It is also a great way to advertise your College.

It is a great experience putting on such a professional event for 8 days. While it sounds daunting, you have an active and excellent support base in over 10 Life Members, heaps of past executive, working party and delegates as well as many tools to make organising one of Australia’s premier young leader conferences as easy as possible. More than 20 people are directly and intensely involved in the making an annual NAAUC conference.

There is no better feeling than standing in front of 200 people, watching them intently listen to an amazing speaker, and say to yourself “I was a part of this”. A wholesome feeling, knowing you have helped many colleges and people throughout Australia improve, even if only a little.

If you are interested in bidding for the 2009 NAAUC Conference, contact the President, Michael Douglas.

Hints on putting in a bid

Preparation

Preparation is the key. Almost always, the winning College is not the one with the most exotic location, or exciting social calendar, but the College that has proven its organisational skills by presenting a well laid out, informative and concise presentation.

Approach the College Administration

Conferences are a vital part of generating revenue for a college and keeping residents’ fees down. Most administrations would be only too happy to host the conference, especially as they have an early booking (one year before!). Get a quote for accommodation and eating costs during the week and maybe a written letter of support from your Head of College or another relevant person.

Gain Support and Sponsorship

Support can be obtained from the local council, university, college office, local government and local and national businesses. This can be in the form of a direct financial contribution or free/discounted products and services to be used during the conference. Conferences are of considerable financial benefit to whichever state and region is playing host - if you 'sell' the idea of the conference to them, they will often come to the party with money or some other form of support.

Other Areas

other areas that should be researched and included in the presentation are potential speakers, workshop topics, venues and social functions. A professional presentation using videos or PowerPoint can be an advantage.