2022 AWHONN Convention COVID-19 Information

COVID-19 Vaccine and Mask Requirements (UPDATED MARCH 30, 2022)

The United States has reached an important milestone in ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19. As COVID-19 case rates and hospitalization rates in the United States continue to decline, AWHONN continues to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and is in constant communication with our partners at the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center, national authorities, and the AWHONN Board of Directors. At this time, we are asking all Convention participants to be prepared to follow the guidelines listed below. However, AWHONN may choose to update the masking requirements, in accordance with the CDC recommendations and local mandates, closer to the Convention dates. Any updates on this guidance will be shared on June 1.

COVID-19 Vaccine and Mask Requirements

We are actively monitoring the pandemic, including the omicron and delta variants, and health protocols will be in place in accordance with expert guidance from the CDC. Should circumstances change, we will update this webpage to reflect those changes.

Is there a vaccination requirement for the 2022 AWHONN Convention participants? 

All onsite participants (AWHONN staff and attendants) are required to show proof of vaccination* prior to onsite name badge pickup before being allowed into the AWHONN meeting space. AWHONN will be using a vaccine verification app to review vaccination status upon registration.

As health protocols will be in place in accordance with expert guidance from the CDC, we ask that you recognize the following:

By participating in the Convention, all attendees agree to:

Provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination and COVID-19 booster if appropriate based on vaccination booster timeline
Wear an approved mask (KN95, N95, or double mask) over nose and mouth at all events
Wear a color-coded indicator (wristband and/or lanyard) indicating your comfort level of congregating within six feet of other attendees
Reconsider participation in the event should you feel sick or are experiencing COVID-like symptoms prior to traveling to or while onsite in Aurora

Are we required to wear masks onsite? What other protocols are expected onsite?

Yes – all participants will be required to wear a KN95, N95, or double mask, worn over their nose and mouth.  

In addition, while onsite:

Temperature checks will be available.
Socially distant seating will be an option in all situations. 
It is recommended that attendees avoid physical contact, including hugs and handshakes. 
Please adhere to any signage and floor decals that encourage physical distancing through the Convention space and in common areas.  
The Resort will conduct enhanced cleaning and disinfection of high-frequency contact points.  
Attendees are encouraged to wash their hands and/or use sanitizer frequently.

In addition to these safety measures, the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center has implemented enhanced cleanliness protocols. You can learn more about Gaylord’s Commit to Clean.  

How will meals be handled?

Pre-packaged items, when available, will be served, as well as buffets, with service from Gaylord staff, will be a part of the program. Buffet separation guards will be provided to ensure safe service between guests and food.

Is AWHONN offering onsite testing?  

No – currently, there is no plan to offer onsite testing. For your own peace of mind, we strongly recommend taking a COVID-19 test before you depart for Aurora and the day after you arrive onsite. 

How will I find out about Convention health updates while on site in Aurora? 

To help ensure your personal safety and comfort during Convention, AWHONN is committed to robust and transparent communications during the event. We are exploring a messaging alert system and will encourage all participants to receive up-to-the-minute updates.  

What happens if the Convention is canceled? 

The safety of our participants is our number one priority. At this time, we have no reason to believe that the Convention will be canceled. If there is a need to cancel the Convention, AWHONN will offer a no-questions-asked refund, or you can transfer your registration to the 2023 Convention at no additional cost. We believe COVID-19 will be an ongoing health and safety risk that all business events and their business partners will have to manage with informed measures.

*We look forward to welcoming all guests to celebrate our community at this year’s Convention. Participants who wish to receive a medical or religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine will be asked to show the following documentation:

Religious Exemption: You must hold sincere religious beliefs which are contrary to the practice of vaccination. Your religious leader must provide a religious organization statement as proof of your reason for exemption. You must also arrive at the meeting with proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival. Those granted religious exemptions must wear a mask (KN95 or better) that covers the nose and mouth, at all times, regardless of COVID-19 test results.
Medical Exemption: You must have a medical condition for non-vaccination that is signed by a licensed healthcare provider, not related to the submitter, whose specialty is appropriate to the associated condition. You must also arrive at the meeting with proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival. Those granted medical exemptions must wear a mask (KN95 or better) that covers the nose and mouth, at all times, regardless of COVID-19 test results.

If you are requesting an exemption, please indicate that you are not vaccinated when you register. Once onsite, please present your exemption documentation, and negative PCR results, to the AWHONN customer service representative at the Convention registration desk.