#IOA2023 What To Know Before You Go

Conference App

The #IOA2023 Conference App will be your best tool for navigating the conference. Download and log-in to the app for the conference schedule, attendee list, session materials, sponsor information, conference notifications, and much more right at your fingertips. Learn More>


Registration Hours

Sunday, 2 April: 1:00 PM — 5:00 PM
Monday, 3 April:  6:00 AM — 7:00 PM
Tuesday, 4 April:  6:30 AM — 6:00 PM
Wednesday, 5 April:  6:30 AM — 12:00 PM


Travel and Hotel

Visit the #IOA2023 Hotel & Travel page for information on the conference hotel, travel details from the airport, and exciting things to do in Seattle.

The Westin Seattle
1900 5th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 728-1000


Dining with an Expert

Discuss your chosen topic with an experienced ombuds and a small group of peers at a local restaurant. Groups will depart from the IOA Attendee Lounge at about 7:00 PM, unless otherwise noted. Learn More and Sign Up>


What to Pack

Wondering What to Wear?

Spring weather in Seattle can vary from the high 40s to low 60s °F (4-15 °C), and we may see clouds, rain, and hopefully some sunshine mixed in. Make sure to bring layers and a rain jacket to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Conference attire is business casual. 

Bring Some Cash for the Prize Drawing

Prizes will include gift cards, gift baskets, and more! Tickets are 1 for $2, 6 for $10, and 15 for $20. Tickets may be purchased from the opening of the conference until the break before the Mary Rowe Keynote. Drawings will happen at the beginning of Mary Rowe Keynote and the Closing Session. Must be present to win.


Arrival Activities

The Ombuds Lounge 
The Ombuds Lounge will be open for early arrivers on Sunday, 2 April, beginning at 1:00 PM PT. Feel free to drop off your luggage and explore Seattle and/or hang out with hosts David Schwartz and Chanelle Reese.

Explore Seattle
Spend the afternoon exploring all that Seattle has to offer from the famous Space Needle and Pike Place Market, to the original Starbucks and Museum of Pop Culture! Check out our list of recommended spots to check out while in the "Emerald City."


IOA Gear

We have launched our online conference store stocked with IOA-branded shirts, water bottles, stickers and hats. Use the code EARLYBIRD for a discount until 31 March 2023! Shop Today!


IOA Online Bookstore

Check out IOA's online bookstore for recommended reading options. 


Headshot Lounge

IOA is excited to offer a Headshot Lounge for all conference participants. Stop in during posted hours on Tuesday, 4 April, to get a new headshot to spruce up your IOA Online CommUnity and LinkedIn profiles!  


Pre-Conference Virtual Sessions

International Outreach Committee and Regional Advisory Boards are offering a day of pre-conference sessions on 30 March open to all IOA members and conference attendees. Learn more>


Conference Recordings

The Keynote sessions, the Undebate, and all breakout sessions held in Cascade I will be recorded and available post-event in the IOA Online Learning Center. Learn More>


Conference Activities and Events


Policies