1. How does the AJS select the city that will host its Annual Conference?
We typically meet in an east coast city every other year. The non-east coast years, we pick cities with large hotels that can handle our robust content. The cities should also be easy to travel to and have great downtowns.
2. How far in advance do you plan each Annual Conference?
We have hotels locked down through 2021 in Chicago. I’ll be looking for space for 2022 in the next few months.
3. What goes into planning for the conference and what is your role at the conference?
My main responsibilities at the AJS involve handling conference logistics and exhibitor, advertiser and sponsor sales. At the conference, you can find me working with the hotel staff and outside vendors and managing the exhibitors.However, I always say if you noticed me, I did something wrong!
4. What's your favorite conference memory?
I love seeing the exhibit hall buzzing during a coffee break! I feed off of that energy on those long days.
5. As the Association for Jewish Studies approaches its 50th anniversary, what role do you see the conference playing for members in the next 50 years?
Technology evolves but the need to meet at conferences will never disappear. The best networking happens in person.
6. Speaking of evolving, what’s new at this year’s conference?
I am excited about the AJS 50 and Forward Party. Members love a chance to gather and we’ll have the time and space to do that at the party. The plenary will have a large attendance due to its new, dedicated time slot this year. Also, we will have a walking tour of Boston on Monday, December 17 and a trip to the Yiddish Book Center on Wednesday, December 19, extending the conference program for those who wish to join this newly-added option. And I love the commemorative anniversary mugs that are available for purchase. #AJS50Mugs
Heather Turk is the Director of Events and Operations at the Association for Jewish Studies.
