Special Conference Events Scheduled

Looking for some fun “extras” at the 2026 SIOP Annual Conference? Check out our special events and opportunities to make your conference experience unforgettable!

Preconference Networking Calls – Let’s break the ice!
Get a head start on conference networking with our informal, high-energy preconference Zoom sessions! Each meetup is an opportunity to connect with fellow I-O psychology educators, researchers, practitioners, and students; exchange ideas; and explore themes that will shape our time together at the conference. Expect lively breakout rooms, interactive discussions, a warm and welcoming atmosphere—and just a hint of shenanigans.

• Wednesday, February 25 – 2 p.m. ET
• Wednesday, March 25 – 2 p.m. ET
• Wednesday, April 15 – 2 p.m. ET

Learn more and register for a networking call.

Opening Plenary
Wednesday, April 29
7 – 8 p.m. CT
Great Hall
The Opening Plenary will be in person, honoring SIOP’s award recipients and introducing the newest SIOP Fellows. This event will also feature Scott Tannenbaum’s Presidential Address.

Welcome Reception and Top Poster Display
Wednesday, April 29
8 – 9:30 p.m. CT
Great Hall Prefunction Area
The Welcome Reception and Top Poster Display directly follows the Opening Plenary. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and beverages while perusing the top poster submissions, reuniting with old friends, and making new ones!

Networking for Introverts
Wednesday, April 29
Noon – 7 p.m. CT
Room TBD
Join themed breakout rooms designed around shared interests, professional backgrounds, and conversation topics that help spark meaningful connections. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a conference regular, this relaxed session is a fun way to start building your network early.

Book Lunch
Thursday, April 30
Noon – 1 p.m. CT
Room 208/209/210
Bring your lunch and join fellow attendees for a conversation about the books that have inspired, deepened, or transformed your practice. Share your favorite titles—and feel free to include impactful models, memorable diagrams, or even a cheeky podcast or two. It’s a gathering for bibliophiles, big thinkers, and curious minds.

I-O Psychology for Greater Good
Friday, May 1
Noon – 1 p.m. CT
Room 208/209/210
A space to share the projects—professional or personal—that bring the goodness of I-O psychology into the world. Whether it’s an ESG initiative, a community pantry, or volunteer work, this lunchtime meetup invites attendees to celebrate impact and explore how we can support one another in making an even greater difference, both within the profession and beyond.

SIOP Art & Talent Showcase
Friday, May 1
7 – 9 p.m. CT
Room TBD
An evening celebrating creativity within our I-O community, featuring art, stand-up comedy, music, dance, poetry, and more. Whether you want to perform or simply enjoy the show, you’ll be part of a joyful celebration of the many talents that enrich our field. It’s not just a talent show, it’s a space for expression, connection, and remembering that I-O psychologists are creative humans too.

Sign up to showcase your talent and be part of a night filled with creativity, connection, and inspiration!

Closing Plenary
Saturday, May 2
4 – 5 p.m. CT
Great Hall
Come join us for the Closing Plenary where will be recognizing some of the most distinguished award winners and hearing from new SIOP President Richard Landers.

Closing Reception
Saturday, May 2
5 – 6 p.m. CT
Great Hall Prefunction Area
Please join us for a family-friendly closing event where we will celebrate the new learnings and connections made with food and fun! Details to come closer to the event.

Participants must be registered to attend the 2026 SIOP Annual Conference to participate in these special events.