Accessibility Guide to CL25​

Welcome. This is a first-person explanation of what to expect at Convening Leaders 2025 this year.​

Getting Ready for CL25​

I can learn about Convening Leaders 2025 and register on the event’s official website.​

If I need to request an accommodation for a disability or medical condition, I can do that when registering. If I have already registered, I can edit my responses by logging into the Participant Portal, where I can update everything except my name/email/company. If I need to update any of these details, I will need to email PCMA at events@conveningleaders.org.​

I can also contact Karla Zander via email kzander@pcma.org or text/call 847-650-9951 if I have any questions.

Arriving at and Leaving CL25​

I am going to Convening Leaders 2025 at the George R. Brown Convention Center Houston, TX.​

The event is at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The address is 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Houston, TX 77010.​

The event runs over four days from January 12-15, 2025.​

On my first day, I should arrive around an hour prior to my first activity/session so I can check into the event and start my day.​

The event finishes around noon on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.​

Please note: Visual aids of the George R. Brown Convention Center will be updated to reflect rendered views of CL25 signage and event layout.​

This is what I can expect at CL25​

Convening Leaders Event App

I can find all Convening Leaders 2025 information in the PCMA+ event app, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.​

When I have registered for the event, I can access information like the event agenda, food and beverage, and much more in the app.

Taking the Shuttle​

CL25 will not have shuttle service. However, ride share services will be able to drop me at the front entrance to minimize walking.

I have arrived at CL25

When I arrive on the first day, I will go to George R Brown Convention Center to pick up my badge. The area may be crowded, and I can ask for support from any staffer if I don’t want to stand or wait in a long line. The Accessibility Help Desk will also be able to accommodate me with shorter wait times. ​

I can also ask any staffer or go to the Accessibility Help Desk.

I will pick up my badge​

Badge Pickup Hours and Location: George R Brown Convention Center

  • Sat 1/11: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.​
  • Sun, 01/12: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. ​
  • Mon, 01/13: 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ​
  • Tues, 01/14: 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ​
  • Weds, 01/15: 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. ​

If I need accessible badge pickup, I can go to the low-height counters or ask any staffer for help.

Accessibility Provisions​

Accessibility provisions are available to make my CL25 journey more comfortable. I can find detailed information in the Accessibility section in the PCMA+ app (under Event Details).​

If I need support with accessibility provisions, I can ask the Accessibility Help Desk during badge pickup hours.

I want to attend a Main Stage session​

I should arrive 30 minutes or more early to any main stage session.

I can use the marked VIP/Accessible security lane.

I can also ask any staffer with an Accessible Seating sign for help.

I need accessible seating areas in keynote and breakout rooms.​

Accessible seating is available for me and anyone who needs it. All sessions, including main stage and breakouts, will have seats prioritized for those needing accommodations.​

I can ask the room staff for a seat in the accessible area. Room staff will have lighted signs indicating the path to the accessible seating area.

Navigating Between Sessions​

I may need to travel long distances during the day, so I need to allow myself plenty of time to get to my destination.​ Sessions are held in various rooms that could be in different buildings.​

I should be prepared for a significant amount of walking or rolling throughout the day. Heavy crowds and congested areas could also slow down my travel.

If it’s too bright or too loud​

During the event, there might be big screens, bright lights, loud noises, or music. If it becomes too much, I can go to the Quiet Zone to decompress.​

I can find the Quiet Zone on Level 300 at the George R Brown Convention Center in room 380A.

Food & drink​

I can find all scheduled meal information in the event app under Networking. ​

Water stations will be placed throughout the venue if I want to fill up my water bottle.

What if I need a restroom?​​

I can find a restroom on each level in every building. All bathrooms at the George R. Brown Convention Center have an accessible stall if I need it.​

There is signage to help me find the restrooms, and I can also ask any staffer where the closest restroom is.

Who can I ask for help?​​

I can ask any staffer for help! They are happy to assist and can answer questions and give directions.​

I can also contact Karla Zander via email kzander@pcma.org or text/call 847-650-9951 if I have any questions.

My day is over

I can head back to my hotel room. It might be crowded when I leave, so I should be ready to wait in a large crowd.

We look forward to seeing you in Houston.​

To our guests:

CL25 networking experiences will take place in multiple locations. It’s important to us to be completely open about the potential barriers for individuals with disabilities or medical needs due to the distance between venues and sessions, as well as the possibility of extensive walking or navigating through crowds.​

For individuals with disabilities and/or medical conditions, whether you are recovering from injuries, illnesses, or surgeries, we are dedicated to ensuring your experience is as comfortable and accessible as possible. Please specify any accommodations you may require on the registration form, and a member of our team will personally reach out to gather more details and ensure we can accommodate your needs. We ask that you provide accommodation requests at least two weeks in advance.​

If you’re uncertain whether you’ll need support during CL25, reach out to our Accessibility Help Desk at least two weeks prior to the event to chat with a dedicated accessibility manager. We can answer questions, provide information, and assist you in determining if further accommodations are necessary. Questions? Contact Karla Zander via email kzander@pcma.org or text/call 847-650-9951.