Build Connections Through the SIOP Ambassador Program

The SIOP Annual Conference can be an overwhelming experience, particularly for those who are new to the event and aren’t quite sure where to start or how to make the most of the experience and the opportunities it offers.

Since 2010, the SIOP Ambassador Program has sought to make the experience for conference newcomers less overwhelming by connecting our newest attendees with previous, and often seasoned, conference goers who are willing to provide advice and insight, share what they’ve learned, and serve as a mentor through the conference.

Participating as a Newcomer can not only help you navigate the conference but can also help you build connections and grow your network with other first-time conference goers as well as returning attendees.

Serving as an Ambassador is a relatively short time commitment that can have a tremendous impact on first-time SIOP attendees, including providing a positive introduction to the SIOP community and increasing the chances of retention and subsequent conference participation over time.

How to sign up:
Anyone wanting to participate in the program as an Ambassador or Newcomer can sign up during the SIOP Annual Conference registration process. If you have already registered and want to add your sign-up, you may do so in My Registrations in Community Hub.

Who is eligible?

• For Newcomers: Anyone who is attending the SIOP Annual Conference for the first time in 2026.
• For Ambassadors: Anyone who has attended at least one previous SIOP Annual Conference and who is registered for the 2026 SIOP Annual Conference.

What is the time commitment?

• Matched Ambassadors and Newcomers will actively communicate with one another via email as well as meet by phone or video call at least once prior to the conference.
• Schedule a time to meet in person during the annual conference.

Graduate students who are more advanced in their programs, recent graduates, and seasoned conference attendees should consider taking time as an Ambassador to make a first-time annual conference attendee feel welcome. We look forward to your participation!

“I have been an Ambassador since this program started – I just like helping others. And I just really LOVE SIOP, so I like to spread the joy,” said Nicholas Salter, assistant professor at Hofstra University. 

For more information about the program, visit the Ambassador Program webpage or contact ambassador@siop.org.