Health and Safety at HLC Events
HLC encourages event registrants to monitor this page regarding health and safety protocols events hosted by the Higher Learning Commission.
Health and Safety Plan
HLC is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for its events. All individuals participating in any in-person aspect of HLC events are required to provide proof that they are fully-vaccinated, as defined by public health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and any other applicable public health authorities.
Actions to Take in Advance of an Event
Complete the proof of vaccination process using CrowdPass, HLC’s third party app provider. Registered attendees will receive the link to upload proof of vaccination to CrowdPass closer to the event date.
Moving Around the Event
- Wear a mask! The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is requiring everyone age two or older, regardless of vaccination status, to wear masks in public indoor settings. This includes hotel banquet space and meeting rooms. Masks may temporarily be removed while eating.
- Entering the Event – An additional checkpoint has been added prior to visiting the registration desk to ensure attendees have met the requirements. Signage and event staff will be available to guide attendees.
- For the Annual Conference Only: Exhibit Hall – In place of an in-person exhibit hall this year, HLC has offered organizations the opportunity to showcase their product through showcase presentations. This allows HLC to provide more seating areas throughout the conference campus and to reduce crowding and improve traffic flow within the event.
Cleaning Standards and Special Measures
- Event staff and hotel partners continually monitor the COVID-19 safety procedures throughout the event to ensure compliance and safety for all attendees.
- Hand sanitizer dispensers are placed throughout the hotel. Attendees are encouraged to sanitize their hands frequently and after every meeting.
- Meeting rooms will be set up in compliance with the current distancing and capacity guidelines in the state to ensure attendees can take part safely in event sessions.
- For the Annual Conference Only:
- Review Hyatt’s Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment.
- Review Swissotel’s Accor ALL Safe and Well commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HLC’s plan for COVID-19 health and safety at its events?
- HLC requires all event attendees, including attendees of the 2022 Annual Conference, to provide proof that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19,
as defined by public health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and any other applicable public health authorities. - In addition, the City of Chicago has issued Public Health Order 2021-2, effective January 3, which requires certain establishments to verify that patrons are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The order requires any individual age 5 and older to show proof of vaccination to dine indoors, visit gyms, or enjoy entertainment venues where food or drink are being served, including banquet and event space. HLC’s requirement applies to all attendees, staff, exhibiting company or organization personnel, vendors, and any other categories of participants and service providers.
- For the Annual Conference, if you will be unable to affirm that you have been fully vaccinated fourteen days in advance of your arrival in Chicago, you may register for the virtual General Program option.
- No refunds will be issued for individuals who register for the in-person meeting after January 19, 2022 but are unable to affirm they have met the vaccination requirement.
Will I have to wear a mask during the 2022 Annual Conference?
Yes. The Cook County Department of Public Health requires everyone age two or older to wear masks in public indoor settings. This includes hotel banquet space and meeting rooms. Masks may temporarily be removed while eating or drinking. HLC continues to track public health guidance and this policy will be updated accordingly.
Do I need a vaccine against COVID-19 to attend the 2022 Annual Conference?
Yes – all participants at the conference are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as defined by public health authorities.
How will I verify my COVID-19 vaccination status?
HLC has secured a third-party provider, CrowdPass, to verify COVID-19 vaccination status. HLC will not track or retain vaccination information from CrowdPass. In-person attendees will be provided with a link to CrowdPass to provide information regarding their vaccination status. This link and more information on CrowdPass will be provided closer to HLC events.
Will exceptions to HLC’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement be accepted?
To assure the health and safety of all attendees, HLC will not generally consider individual exceptions to this requirement. Individuals who cannot demonstrate proof of vaccination as required are invited to register for the virtual General Program option.
HLC’s third-party provider, CrowdPass has a process for individuals requesting an accommodation related to a disability or religious belief. These individuals will be required to have a negative COVID-19 test administered by a medical professional within 72 hours of the conference start date.
Questions?
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