Networking and Special Events

Join your colleagues at these various networking events during the conference.

It’s more than meeting people; it’s connecting with the right people for knowledge sharing, best practices, career connections…and socializing. The SHEA Spring Conference has planned many different ways for you to connect during the conference. Meet and discuss issues and strategies with others in your area of work. Spring is the place to create future opportunities for collaboration.

First-Time Attendee Program

Tuesday, April 7, 3:15-4:00 pm
Kick off the week by meeting and mingling with fellow attendees, and then a brief meet and greet with the SHEA Board before the start of the Conference. This is a great opportunity for new SHEA members and first-time SHEA Spring attendees to meet one another, ask questions, and maximize your SHEA Spring experience.

Lunch
We also invite you to have lunch at one of our designated New Member/First Time Attendees lunch tables. We will have volunteers and SHEA Leadership at the designated tables to connect and begin building professional relationships that will continue well after SHEA Spring concludes.


Welcome Reception

Tuesday, April 7
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The reception is open to all attendees. Join others to mingle, meet, network, visit posters, and exhibitors. It’s a can’t miss event!


Science Salons

Wednesday – Friday
1:00-1:45 p.m. (during lunch)

Join fellow attendees for relaxed, interactive discussions exploring the concepts and findings behind selected SHEA Spring posters. Each day in the Poster Hall, ICHE/ASHE Editors will facilitate an engaging conversation featuring 3-4 abstracts. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive deeper into high-quality research and exchange ideas with colleagues in an informal, collaborative setting. Indicate your interest in participating when you register!


“Peer Perspectives” Networking Lunch

Wednesday – Friday
During Lunch

We are excited to introduce Peer Perspectives — small, peer-led discussion groups designed to help you build connections, share strategies, and explore real-world challenges in infection prevention and antibiotic stewardship.

Here’s how it works:

  • Participants choose from the scheduled topics onsite and join the conversation. Indicate your interest in participating when you register!
  • Hosts suggest a discussion topic of interest (no presentation required). Staff will group topics and provide simple prompts to guide the conversation.

Indicate your interest in participating when you register!


Mentorship Breakfast

Wednesday, April 8
7:00 – 8:15 a.m.

The SHEA Mentorship Program is designed to create a strong networking community while providing and enhancing the SHEA membership experience at all levels. Our goal is to form relationships that can be carried forward beyond the meeting. SHEA will still be holding a Mentorship Meet and Greet Breakfast. This will be a casual mix and mingle event with no agenda. It will be an opportunity for other mentors and mentees to meet. 

Learn more about the program and the requirements to be a mentor or mentee.


Journal Reception

Wednesday, April 8
6:00-7:00 p.m.

This is an invite only reception. More information to come.


Dine Around: Tastes of Chicago

Wednesday, April 8
6:30 – 8 p.m.

More information to come!


Women of SHEA

Thursday, April 9
7:00 – 8:15 a.m.

We invite all women and allies to join us for the “Women of SHEA” breakfast to support meaningful connections within the SHEA community. This breakfast is open to all attendees. We look forward to seeing you!


Foundation Event

Thursday, April 9
6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

Join us for the SHEA Foundation Event, a special evening where friends and colleagues gather during SHEA Spring to celebrate our collective commitment to advancing healthcare epidemiology, infection prevention, and antibiotic stewardship.

*Extra ticket purchase required.


Morning Walk/Run

Friday, April 10
6:30 a.m.

Start your day with a refreshing walk or run along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront!
Join fellow attendees for a casual morning walk/run before sessions begin. Enjoy stunning skyline views, fresh air, and great company while getting energized for the day ahead. All paces are welcome — whether you prefer a brisk walk or an easy jog, this is a great way to connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.