Conference FAQs

What is a hybrid conference?

The Wisconsin SHRM 2021 State Conference offers in-person and virtual experiences. You can attend the event in-person at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, view it online, or do a combination of both.

Why is the price the same for virtual vs. in person?  Those attending virtually don't need food.

The reason is the cost is the same is that the technology and labor involved in producing the virtual event is expensive and because of those costs, the planning committee felt it balanced out against the costs of meals.

The virtual platform is much more interactive than what could be provided in a “Zoom” setting.  You will also be able to participate in the Thursday evening activities and visit the Expo booths virtually.  Each vendor has the opportunity to also create and staff a live person in their virtual booth to meet and greet attendees, as well as have conversations (with camera and audio) about their products/services.

Can I watch some Wisconsin SHRM 2021 State Conference sessions online and see some in-person?

Yes, attendees can attend some sessions in person at the Kalahari and watch some online.

Will the Wisconsin SHRM 2021 State Conference presentations be live?

Yes, most presentations will be live. Virtual attendees will watch via livestream - Preconference sessions, all Keynotes and breakout sessions.  Early Bird sessions on Thursday and Friday will not be streamed.

Will the presentations be recorded and available for playback later?

No, they will be broadcast live only.

Is there a price difference for in-person and virtual attendees?

No, the price is the same for those watching virtually and those attending in-person.

Can online attendees earn the same number of SHRM certification credits as in-person attendees?

Yes. Online attendees and those attending in-person can earn the same number of SHRM certification credits with the exception of credit for Early Bird sessions.

Masking Policy on site at the Kalahari:
Considering many factors, the conference committee has established the following conference guidelines regarding social distancing and masking. 

• Any attendee who is most comfortable with a mask are encouraged to wear them
• Masks are strongly encouraged for anyone who has chosen not to get the vaccine
• Masks are required in the exhibit hall due to more enclosed space and limited ability for social distancing
• We are asking everyone to respect other people’s choices and personal space.   If you are uncertain of someone’s social distance preference and are in conversation with them, ask.

Thank you for your understanding!

Cancellation Policy:
Attendees Cancellation: A $100 administrative fee will be charged for conference cancellations received between August 15, 2021 and September 15, 2021 ($25.00 administrative fee for the preconference portion only). Requests for refunds after September 15th will be denied unless there are extenuating circumstances which prevent an attendee from finding another person to attend the conference in their place.  (An extenuating circumstance may include an unexpected death in the family or medical emergency).  Proof of the hardship will be required.  Changing work loads and/or staffing levels will not be considered valid reasons.  These requests will be reviewed by the WI SHRM Executive Council, State Conference Co-Chairs and the Conference Liaison Director on a case-by-case basis.

Exhibitor Cancellation: A 50% cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made by August 31, 2021. There will be no refunds or cancellations made after August 31, 2021.