Bidding for NAAUC

What better way to lead than by example?

Hosting a NAAUC conference is an excellent opportunity for your college, university and city to let their true colours show. By organising over 200 delegates to come and stay in your college for a week, visiting delegates will learn the traditions and leadership styles and the unique aspects of your college.

It is also a great way to advertise your college. Putting on a professional seven-day event is a great experience. While it sounds daunting, you have an active and excellent support base in over ten Life Members, heaps of past executives, working party members, and delegates as well as many tools to make organizing one of Australia’s premier young leader conferences as easy as possible. More than 20 people are directly and intensely involved in the making of 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 saying to yourself “I was a part of this”. It is a wonderful feeling, knowing you have helped many colleges and people throughout Australia to improve, even if only a little.

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 organizational 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 ahead!). Get a quote for accommodation and dining 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 forward 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.

Important Information

If you would like to take on the challenge of organising one of Australia’s leading conferences for young leaders you must contact the President, Michael Douglas or the Conference Directors, Sean Hubert and Carina Lee. They will not only supply you with invaluable information and advice as former successful bidders and Presidents, but will also register your intention to bid.