Hello Scholars!
The countdown is on for our 5th Annual Leadership & Education Conference in sunny Los Angeles, California!
From Wednesday, May 27 to Saturday, May 30, we have an exciting and memorable few days planned for you—complete with meaningful experiences, valuable networking, and well-deserved celebration.
Below, you’ll find all the key conference details. We can’t wait to welcome you in May!
HOTEL INFO
Get ready for spectacular waterfront views and sandy beaches at the stunning Sandbourne Hotel, located at:
1740 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
Packing List
Please review the schedule below to prepare appropriate outfits accordingly.
Please ensure that all outfits are appropriate, meaning no short skirts or shorts, revealing shirts or inappropriate footwear.
Flight Info
You will receive your booking confirmation and flight information via email. You are expected to check into your flight 24 hours in advance and be prompt for your flight (we recommend arriving at the airport up to 3 hours prior to your flight if you are checking a bag).
If there are any changes to your flight itinerary, departure or return locations, or an emergency that requires you to change your flight, please contact Dori-Anna Tomei or Lachelle Metcalf as soon as possible.
Conference Q&A
Q&A meeting date TBD
Packing List: What to Wear — Day by Day Guide
WEDNESDAY MAY 27 — Arrival Day ✈ Travel Attire
Comfortable but polished — you're arriving as a representative of your program.
• Clean joggers or dark jeans with a neat top • Sneakers or casual flats
• A light jacket or cardigan for the plane or car
🌟 Evening — Semi-Formal Dinner
Dress to impress! This is a patio dinner setting so think stylish but practical.
• Dresses, jumpsuits, dressy separates, or dress pants with a blazer and collared shirt
• Collared shirt and slacks; no tie necessary
• Suits are welcome but not required — elevated and polished is the goal
• Clean dress shoes, loafers, heels, or wedges recommended
Note: Patio setting — block heels or wedges are easier to navigate than stilettos on outdoor surfaces. Bring a jacket or sweater — California evenings can get breezy
💼 THURSDAY MAY 28
Morning — Afternoon: Business Casual
Professional and polished for sessions and workshops.
• Dress pants, a midi skirt, or a blazer with a blouse or collared shirt
• Clean flats, low heels, or dress shoes — keep it polished
• Avoid overly casual items like ripped jeans, athletic wear, or flip flops
🎨 Evening — Paint Activity
Wear something you genuinely do not mind ruining — paint will end up on whatever you wear!
• Old jeans or pants you are not attached to
• A worn tee, sweatshirt, or oversized top
• Closed-toe shoes you can wipe down if needed
Note: This is the one time of the conference to leave your nice clothes in the room!
FRIDAY MAY 29
🏃 Morning — Workout / Activity
Come ready to move!
• Leggings, athletic shorts, or joggers
• Moisture-wicking top or athletic tee
• Supportive sneakers — no sandals or slip-ons
Note: Water bottles will be provided — no need to pack one!
🍳 Afternoon — Cooking Activity
Casual and practical. You will be cooking so dress accordingly.
• Jeans, casual pants, or shorts
• A casual top or tee that can handle some splashes
Note: Please avoid sundresses or anything that may be difficult to move around in while cooking
🎭 Evening — Broadway Theater
This is a special evening out — elevate your look and enjoy the experience!
• A midi or maxi dress, chic wrap dress, dressy blouse with trousers
• Sharp blazer with dress pants or crisp button up with slacks
• A jumpsuit or sleek separates also work beautifully for an evening out
• Clean sneakers are acceptable but dress shoes or heels are preferred
• A small clutch or crossbody bag is ideal for the theater
SATURDAY MAY 30 - Departure Day ✈ Travel Attire
Same energy as Wednesday — comfortable, neat, and conference-ready for any final farewells.
• Clean joggers or jeans with a polished top
• Comfortable sneakers or flats for travel
• Layer up — airports and cars can get chilly
General Packing Tips
• Pack layers for every day — conference rooms tend to run cold regardless of outdoor temps
• Comfortable dress shoes or insoles are your best friend across multiple days of walking
• A small crossbody or clutch bag works perfectly for the dinner and theater evenings
• Water bottles will be provided throughout the conference — no need to pack one
• When in doubt, slightly overdress — you can always dress down but it is hard to dress up on the fly
Questions about attire? Don't hesitate to reach out before you pack!
