AnitaB.org announced the cancellation of this year’s Grace Hopper Celebration in Anaheim, California, citing a lack of funds to cover operating expenses. According to the organization, both individual registrations and sponsorship commitments came in significantly below prior years, falling short of the level needed to sustain the event.
The cancellation affects thousands of attendees who have already made travel arrangements, booked hotels, secured visas, and arranged time away from work. AnitaB.org acknowledged the widespread disruption, noting that the decision impacts far more than just the event itself.
Attendees are advised to cancel or modify airline, train, and other travel reservations directly with their providers, and to cancel hotel reservations independently. AnitaB.org stated it will contact registrants about registration fees by October 26, and noted that each person’s circumstances may differ when addressing refunds.
The organization said information regarding registration, sponsorships, exhibitor commitments, and other financial matters will be communicated directly to affected individuals and organizations. Those with questions related to the cancellation can contact [email protected].
Brenda Darden Wilkerson, President & CEO of AnitaB.org, stated the organization is “profoundly sorry” for the disruption. She noted that the circumstances leading to the cancellation have adversely affected the organization’s finances and that AnitaB.org is evaluating strategic alternatives and the type of programming it can offer in the future. Further announcements are anticipated in the coming weeks.
Employers who had scheduled interviews at the event are being notified and asked to continue conversations directly with candidates where possible. AnitaB.org also directed attendees with immigration concerns to consult qualified immigration attorneys or their sponsoring institutions, as the organization is unable to provide immigration advice.
Key facts
- Grace Hopper Celebration in Anaheim, CA has been cancelled by AnitaB.org
- Individual registrations and sponsorship commitments came in significantly below expectations and below levels needed to cover operating expenses
- AnitaB.org will contact registrants about registration fees by October 26
- The cancellation affects attendees who have made travel arrangements, booked hotels, and secured visas
- AnitaB.org is evaluating strategic alternatives for future programming