FAQs & Policies
Answers To Common Questions
Everything you need to know before you join us for the 2027 Conference for Administrative Excellence, October 12 to 15, 2027, at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas. Can’t find your answer? Call us at 800-STAR-139 and our team will help.
Quick Jump
About the Conference
When and where is the 2027 conference?
The 2027 Conference for Administrative Excellence takes place October 12-15, 2027, at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Elite Assistant Certification course and the Social Fusion Mixer open the week on Tuesday, October 12. General sessions run Wednesday through Friday morning. You can attend in person, watch live online, or get the recordings on demand.
What is the 2027 theme?
This year’s theme is The Conductor. Today’s administrative professional does far more than manage tasks and calendars. You bring people, priorities, information, technology, and follow-through together so your executive and organization can work at their best. The program is built around five dimensions: Conduct Yourself, Conduct Your Executive, Conduct Your Team, Conduct Your Organization, and Conduct the Future. Explore the theme.
Who should attend?
The conference is designed for executive assistants, administrative assistants, administrative business partners, office managers, chiefs of staff, and administrative leaders. New assistants and 20-year veterans both leave with something to use the next week. Many organizations also send their whole administrative team so they can learn and grow together.
Are there breakout tracks or concurrent sessions?
No. This is a single-stage conference. Everyone attends the same sessions together in one room, so you never have to choose between two sessions you want or wander the hallways looking for the right room. It also means you finish the week with a shared experience and a group of peers who heard the same ideas you did. We learn together. We grow together.
What makes this conference different from other admin conferences?
A few things set it apart. Attendance is intentionally smaller, which leads to deeper conversations and real relationships. We choose every session to tie back to the theme and administrative work, so nothing feels generic. Joan Burge opens the conference with a session that sets the stage for that year’s theme, and her annual team-building activity and trademark surprises are a favorite part of the week. This is our 34th annual conference, and many attendees come back year after year.
Who is Office Dynamics International?
Office Dynamics International (ODI) was founded by Joan Burge in 1990 and was one of the first companies to build training specifically for executive and administrative assistants. ODI produces this conference, along with certification programs, workshops, and coaching for administrative professionals worldwide.
When will the 2027 speakers and agenda be announced?
Is there a dress code?
Business casual is ideal for the general sessions. Meeting rooms tend to run cool, so we suggest bringing a light jacket or sweater. The Joan Burge Gala has its own theme each year, and many attendees enjoy dressing to match it.
How can I apply to speak?
Visit our Speaker Submissions page to learn what we are looking for and submit your session idea.
Are there sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities?
Yes. Sponsors and partners can connect with executive assistants, administrative professionals, and the executives they support. Please complete our contact form to receive more information.
Please note: This sponsorship opportunity is exclusively for brands and exhibitors seeking to connect with our conference attendees. It is not intended to provide sponsored conference passes or financial assistance to individual attendees.
Choosing Your Pass
What are my options for attending?
There are four ways to take part. Early, early bird pricing ends December 31, 2026.
Pass | What You Get | Early Bird | Regular |
|---|---|---|---|
All-Access | In-person conference plus the Elite Assistant Certification course | $2,590 | $2,790 |
In-Person | All sessions, meals, Social Fusion Mixer, and Joan Burge Gala in Las Vegas | $1,795 | $1,995 |
Livestream | Watch live online plus 3 months of recording access | $895 | $895 |
Livestream Extended | Watch live online plus 6 months of recording access | $1,095 | $1,095 |
On-Demand | Recordings after the conference with 3 months of access | $795 | $795 |
On-Demand Extended | Recordings after the conference with 6 months of access | $895 | $895 |
Group discounts are available on every option. Call 800-STAR-139 for group pricing.
What is the All-Access Pass?
The All-Access Pass bundles the full in-person conference with the Elite Assistant Certification course, a one-day masterclass held the day before general sessions begin. It includes both workbooks, all conference meals and events, a Certificate of Attendance, and the Elite Assistant Certificate. It is our most popular choice for assistants who want the complete week.
What is the difference between Livestream and On-Demand?
Livestream lets you watch the main conference presentations as they happen from the Las Vegas stage, with virtual networking and giveaways for online attendees. You also get access to the recordings afterward.
On-Demand is recordings only. There is no live schedule to follow. You watch on your own time once the recordings are released, about two weeks after the conference.
Can I upgrade from Livestream or On-Demand to In-Person?
Yes. If you purchased a Livestream pass and decide to join us in Las Vegas, we will apply what you paid toward the In-Person pass. You only pay the difference. Call 800-STAR-139 to upgrade.
Can I switch my In-Person registration to Livestream?
Yes, at any time. If you make the change before August 1, 2027, you will receive a refund of the price difference. After August 1, 2027, you can still switch, but you won’t receive a refund of the difference. See the Registration Terms and Conditions for details.
Can I add the Elite Assistant Certification after I register?
Yes, as long as seats remain. Call 800-STAR-139, and we will help you add it to your registration.
Can I add the session recordings to my In-Person pass?
Yes. In-Person and All-Access attendees can add the conference session recordings so they can revisit the learning after they get home. Call 800-STAR-139, and we will assist you.
The In-Person Experience
What is included with an In-Person pass?
- All general sessions and keynote presentations
- Conference workbook
- Breakfast Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
- Lunch Wednesday and Thursday
- Morning and afternoon snacks Wednesday and Thursday
- Social Fusion Mixer on Tuesday evening, with hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket
- Joan Burge Gala on Thursday evening, with hors d’oeuvres and one drink ticket
- Joan’s annual team-building activity
- Networking throughout the week
- Access to the Success Store
- Giveaways and prize drawings (you must be present to win)
- Certificate of Attendance with continuing education credits
*Hotel and travel are not included. See all In-Person Details.
What does the week look like? When should I plan to arrive and leave?
Most attendees fly in on Monday or Tuesday, October 11-12. The Elite Assistant Certification course runs Tuesday, October 12, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, and the Social Fusion Mixer is that evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, where you pick up your badge. Wednesday and Thursday are full days, starting with breakfast at 7:00 am and wrapping up around 4:30 pm. The Joan Burge Gala is Thursday night. Friday starts with breakfast, and the conference ends around noon, so a Friday afternoon flight home works well for most people. Many attendees choose to stay an extra day or two after the conference to relax before heading home. All times are Pacific Time.
What is the Social Fusion Mixer?
The Social Fusion Mixer is our welcome reception on Tuesday evening. It is a relaxed way to pick up your badge, meet other attendees, and say hello to Joan Burge and the Office Dynamics team before sessions begin. Light food and a complimentary drink ticket are included. Attendees must be 21 or older.
What is the Joan Burge Gala?
The Gala is the conference’s signature evening. Each year has its own theme, with entertainment, music, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, and one complimentary drink ticket per attendee. Additional drinks are available for purchase. Learn more about the Gala.
Can I bring a guest?
Guests with a Guest Pass are welcome at the Social Fusion Mixer and the Joan Burge Gala. Guests must be 21 or older. Guests cannot attend the conference sessions or any other part of the conference. You can buy a Social Fusion Guest Pass, a Gala Guest Pass, or the Guest Pass Bundle for both.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. You must be 18 or older to register for or attend the conference, and 21 or older to attend the Social Fusion Mixer and the Joan Burge Gala. We may ask for a photo ID to confirm age or registration.
What is VIP Conference Status?
VIP status recognizes attendees who have attended five or more conferences. VIPs are invited to a private event hosted by Joan Burge, are recognized during the conference, and receive special perks and surprises throughout the week.
Not sure if you qualify? Call 800-STAR-139, and we will check for you. Learn about VIP status.
What is the Success Store?
The Success Store is your one-stop destination for inspiration, professional growth, and conference keepsakes! Shop Las Vegas merchandise, speaker books, Joan Burge books, educational resources, notebooks, pens, sticky notes, highlighters, business guides, and inspirational gifts. Discover Joan Burge’s Red Lipstick ON! and Big Life collections, and secure your Conference Pass for next year at a special discounted rate. Plus, enjoy speaker book signings, career coaching opportunities, and more! Whether you’re investing in your career, finding the perfect gift, or taking home a little inspiration, there’s something for everyone at the Success Store!
What should I bring?
We recommend business cards or a digital contact card, a light jacket or sweater for the meeting room, a phone charger, and an outfit for the Gala theme. You’ll receive your conference workbook when you check in.
I have a dietary need or accessibility request. Who should I contact?
Please let us know as early as possible by calling 800-STAR-139 or using our contact form. We will do our best to make sure you have what you need to enjoy the conference.
Can I take photos or record sessions?
You are welcome to take photos of presentation slides and record short clips under two minutes for your own personal, non-commercial use. Recording full sessions is not allowed, and session content cannot be shared, sold, or distributed. Please be respectful when photographing other attendees, especially during social events. Want the full sessions? You can add the conference recordings to your pass.
Will I be photographed at the event?
It is very possible. Office Dynamics photographs and records the conference for marketing, social media, and our website. If you would prefer not to be photographed, please let our staff know at the registration desk.
What if I'm sick before the conference?
If you have symptoms of a contagious illness, please do not attend in person. Contact us and we will walk you through your options, including switching to Livestream.
Livestream Experience
What is included with a Livestream pass?
- Live access to the main conference presentations as they happen in Las Vegas
- Digital conference workbook
- Virtual networking with other Livestream attendees
- Giveaways for virtual attendees
- 3 months of recording access (6 months with Livestream Extended)
- Digital Certificate of Attendance by email after the conference
What is not included with Livestream?
Livestream focuses on the main stage presentations. Meals, the Social Fusion Mixer, the Joan Burge Gala, on-site team building, and other venue activities are part of the in-person experience. The Elite Assistant Certification is an in-person course and is not included in the Livestream broadcast or recordings.
What time zone are the sessions in?
All sessions are broadcast live on Pacific Time. Check the agenda against your local time before you block your calendar. If a session falls outside your working hours, you can catch it in the recordings.
Do I have to watch every session live?
No. Watch what you can live, and catch the rest in the recordings. Recordings are usually available within two weeks after the conference. Your 3 or 6 month access period starts when we notify you the recordings are ready, not on the conference dates.
How do I access the Livestream?
After you register, you will receive a confirmation email. As the conference gets closer, we will send your access link and instructions for the event platform.
What technology do I need?
An up-to-date web browser such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari and a stable internet connection. A wired connection is best, but good Wi-Fi works well. Closing other programs and browser tabs while you watch helps the stream run smoothly. Check with your IT department to make sure they do not block the event platform, RingCentral Events.
Can my coworkers watch with me?
An individual Livestream pass covers one person and may not be shared or used for group viewing. If several people on your team want to participate, ask us about group registration or a Team License. Call 800-STAR-139.
Is the Livestream the same as attending in person?
Not quite. Livestream brings the main stage presentations to you in real time, and we work hard to include our online audience. The in-person experience is designed for the people in the room, so on-site events, meals, and certain perks are only available in Las Vegas. You will still get the same learning and content from the stage.
Can I get a refund on a Livestream pass?
Livestream passes are non-refundable. If you cannot watch live, you still have full access to the recordings.
On-Demand Experience
How does On-Demand work?
On-Demand is a preorder for the professionally recorded and edited conference sessions. Recordings are usually released about two weeks after the conference ends. We will email you when they are ready, and you can watch in any order, pause, rewind, and rewatch as often as you like during your access period. A downloadable workbook is included. See all On-Demand details.
How long will I have access?
The On-Demand pass includes 3 months of access, and On-Demand Extended includes 6 months. Your access begins the day you receive your access email.
Are all conference sessions included?
The package includes the conference session recordings. In rare cases, a presenter may not allow their session to be shared. The Elite Assistant Certification course is not recorded.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. You will receive a digital Certificate of Attendance. Continuing education credits will be announced once the agenda is final.
Can my team watch together?
An individual purchase covers one learner. Group viewing or shared access requires a Team License. Call 800-STAR-139 to talk about options for your organization.
Can I cancel an On-Demand purchase?
No. On-Demand purchases are non-refundable.
Can I still get last year's conference?
Elite Assistant Certification
What is the Elite Assistant Certification?
The Elite Assistant Certification is a one-day, in-person masterclass held at Red Rock Resort the day before general sessions begin, Tuesday, October 12, 2027. This hands-on, interactive course focuses on strategic thinking, executive presence, leadership, and strategic communication. You earn your certification in a single day of focused training, not months of self-study. Learn more about Elite Assistant Certification.
Do I have to attend the conference to take the course?
No. You can register for the Elite Assistant Certification on its own. If you plan to attend both, the All-Access Pass bundles the course with the In-Person conference.
Is the course offered virtually?
No. The course is only offered in person to keep the learning hands-on and interactive. It is not included in the Livestream broadcast or the conference recordings.
What is the schedule for the day?
Check-in starts at 8:00 am and the day wraps up with a certificate presentation by 4:30 pm Pacific Time. There is a short break each morning and afternoon. Lunch is on your own from 12:00 to 1:00 pm, with plenty of dining options inside Red Rock Resort.
Who teaches the course?
The course is taught by Office Dynamics Certified Trainers Lisa Olsen and Peggy Vasquez, who bring more than 40 years of combined experience in the executive and administrative assistant field.
What should I bring?
You will receive a course workbook. Feel free to bring a notebook or journal for your own notes. Laptops are not permitted in the classroom because they can distract other attendees and the facilitators.
How many CEUs will I earn, and when do I get my certificate?
Attendees who complete the full day earn .6 CEUs. You will receive a printed Certificate of Completion at the end of the day. To receive it, you must attend the entire course and participate in all activities.
What is the cancellation policy for the course?
Hotel and Travel
Where is the conference held?
The conference is held at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa, a AAA Four Diamond resort at 11011 W. Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89135. It sits at the edge of Red Rock Canyon, about 10 miles from the Strip, so you get a calm resort setting with easy access to the action when you want it. See venue details.
Is the hotel included in my registration?
No. Registration does not include hotel accommodations. We do reserve a block of rooms at a discounted group rate for conference attendees.
How do I book a room in the conference room block?
What if the room block is sold out?
Call 800-STAR-139 to join our room block waiting list. If rooms open up from cancellations, we will reach out. You can also check the Venue page for any overflow hotel options we have arranged nearby. Please note that Office Dynamics cannot contact Red Rock Resort on your behalf to request rates or make reservations.
What airport should I fly into?
Is there parking at Red Rock Resort?
Yes. There are free parking and valet options.
Should I get travel insurance?
We recommend it. Office Dynamics is not responsible for airfare, hotel, or other travel costs if your plans change, so travel insurance can protect your investment.
Registration, Payment, and Groups
How do I register and pay?
Choose your pass from the Register menu and check out online. If you would rather register by phone, or you are paying with a purchase order, check, or wire transfer, call 800-STAR-139 and we will take care of it.
What payment methods do you accept?
- Credit card: Pay online at checkout, or call 800-782-7139 to pay by phone.
- Check: Make checks payable to Office Dynamics International and mail to 5575 S. Durango Dr., Suite 106, Las Vegas, NV 89113. Checks must arrive and clear before the event, or access to the event will be denied.
- Purchase order: Contact Melia Amira at [email protected] or call 800-782-7139.
- ACH or wire transfer: Contact Melia Amira at [email protected] or call 800-782-7139.
Do you offer payment plans?
What will appear on my credit card statement?
Charges appear as Office Dynamics International.
Do you offer group discounts?
What happens after I register?
You will receive a confirmation email right away. As the conference gets closer, we will email you event details, including the schedule and, for Livestream attendees, your access instructions. Make sure your company isn’t blocking our emails, or you may miss important updates and information.
Policies
Here are quick answers to our most common policy questions. By registering, you agree to the full Registration Terms and Conditions, which take priority over these summaries.
What is the cancellation policy?
Registration | Cancel by August 1, 2027 | After August 1, 2027 |
|---|---|---|
In-Person | Full refund minus a $600 fee | No refund |
All-Access | Full refund minus an $800 fee ($600 conference + $200 Elite) | No refund |
Elite Assistant Certification (standalone) | Full refund minus a $200 fee | No refund |
Livestream | No refunds | No refunds |
On-Demand | No refunds | No refunds |
To cancel, email Melia Amira at [email protected] or 800-STAR-139. No-shows are charged the full fee. Group registrations follow the same policy, and the fee applies to each person who cancels.
Please see our full Registration Terms and Conditions before registering or contacting us.
Can I send someone in my place?
Yes. Substitutions are allowed up to 30 days before the event. Email Melia Amira at [email protected] or call 800-STAR-139 with the new attendee’s name and contact information.
How are refunds issued?
Refunds go back to the original form of payment. If your company paid by company card, purchase order, or check, the refund goes back to the company. We may ask for written confirmation from the purchasing company before issuing a refund to anyone else.
What happens if the conference is postponed or can't be held in person?
If the conference has to be rescheduled because of a natural disaster or other unforeseen event, it will be postponed, not canceled. If you cannot attend the new date, you can send a substitute. If circumstances outside our control, such as severe weather, venue issues, or a public health emergency, keep us from meeting in person, your registration automatically moves to the Livestream conference. We do not offer refunds when a registration moves to Livestream for this reason.
Is there a code of conduct?
Yes. We are committed to a professional, welcoming environment for every attendee, guest, speaker, and staff member. We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or other inappropriate behavior. Anyone who violates this policy or who solicits business or promotes a competing service outside an authorized exhibitor role may be removed without a refund.
Contact Us
Still Have Questions?
- Phone: 800-STAR-139 (800-782-7139)
- Email: Contact form or Melia Amira at [Melia’s email]
- Mail: Office Dynamics International, 5575 S. Durango Dr., Suite 106, Las Vegas, NV 89113