National Association of the Deaf

Where and when is the 2012 NAD Conference?

July 3-7, 2012 in Louisville, Kentucky at the Hyatt Regency-Louisville Hotel and Kentucky International Convention Center. 

Who attends the NAD Conference?

• Deaf, hard of hearing, late deafened, deaf blind, and hearing consumers
• Parents and family members
• Federal employees
• Deaf and hard of hearing professionals
• Organizational and corporate representatives
• Professionals whose services are targeted to deaf, late deafened, hard of hearing, and deaf blind individuals.
• Retirees active in civic and community service
• Mainstream and residential education students
• College and university students
• Educators of the deaf
• Interpreters

Do you have a letter I can show my boss why I should go to the NAD Conference?

Yes! Click here for a sample letter for your employer.

How do I register for the conference?

It’s easy! Just click here for the online and PDF links to register for the 2012 NAD Conference.

Why should I register in advance?

Save money! Discount rates are only offered to those who register before the conference. Early Bird I discount rates expire on February 29, 2012 and Early Bird II discount rates expire May 31, 2012.

Reserve your limited seats! Some events have limited capacities and may be sold out. The KAD Steamboat Benefit Cruise has the smallest available capacity, so grab your seats today! All NAD Conference meal events have early deadlines for food orders. Seating may not be available if you wait until the last minute.

To make check-in at the conference faster and easier. Your information, registration badges, tote bags, and support will be prepared and ready for you in advance!

Can I register at the conference?

Yes. Non-combo registration is available at the conference. But, remember, registering before the Conference saves you money and time and guarantees you seating at meals and events. Meal events have deadlines and seating may not be available if you wait until the last minute.

I am not a member of the NAD; can I still attend the conference?

Yes, you can still enter the NAD Exhibit Hall. All other events require current NAD Membership as of the dates of the 2012 NAD Conference July 3-7, 2012.

Is the conference appropriate for young children?

Yes! The 2012 NAD Conference was designed to attract families and their children. We have a wonderful schedule for children ages 3-17!

For the first time, the NAD Conference offers the following to young children:

• CHILDREN & TEENS (ages 3-17) - Registration required for free admission to workshops, College Bowl/Miss Deaf America events. Payment required for all other events. NAD membership welcomed but not required. Please click here for the online registration form for CHILDREN & TEENS ages 3-17.
• INFANTS (ages 0-2) - Free admission, no registration required.

The following events are perfect for your family for a fun-filled Conference week:

• Opening Ceremony, Buffet, Baseball Game & Fireworks
• KAD Steamboat Benefit Cruise & 4th of July Fireworks
• College Bowl Preliminaries
• College Bowl Finals
• Miss Deaf America Preliminaries
• Miss Deaf America Finals
• Youth Luncheon
• DeaFestival Kentucky (All day Saturday, July 7, 2012)

Children of all ages must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

So, what’s happening at the 2012 NAD Conference?

Take a look at the 2012 Conference schedule. Check back often for additions/changes to the schedule

What workshops/commissions will be offered?

Please view the list at Workshops/Commissions. (coming soon)

Who is sponsoring the conference?

Check our list of sponsors. (coming soon)

How can my organization/company become a sponsor?

It’s easy. Contact us to become a sponsor.

Can I earn Continuing Education Units (CEU) at the conference?

We will offer CEUs for interpreters. Please contact us for details.

How do I make hotel reservations?

The official conference hotel is the Hyatt Regency-Louisville. Click here to make your hotel reservation today!

Why should I stay at the conference hotel?

• All conference activities are in the hotel.
• The NAD negotiates a special rate for conference attendees.
• Attendees who stay in the hotel, allow the NAD to pay less for meeting space which makes registration rates lower.
• The hotel is surrounded by many fun places to spend your time.
• Easier networking opportunities.
• Save extra time from taking public transportation or walking.
• Staying in the conference hotel makes it convenient for you to go to your room in between activities.

Can I visit the exhibit hall without registering for the conference?


Yes, the exhibit hall is open to the public.

Click here for the list of exhibitors. (coming soon)

I have allergies or dietary restrictions, what can I do?

NAD selects meals we hope everyone will enjoy. We realize that some individuals have dietary restrictions and food allergies. Attendees who notified us about food allergies or dietary restrictions that prevent them from eating the standard entree selection are provided with a vegetarian/vegan meal based as closely as possible on their specific dietary needs. NAD will do its best to accommodate all dietary requests; however because the focus is on food allergies, we cannot always guarantee requests such as low-fat, low-salt, low-carb, sugar-free, etc. Alternate soups, salads or desserts also may not be available. Please contact us for special meal requests no later than May 31, 2012.

How can I learn more about traveling to Louisville, the city, museums, restaurants and activities?

Click here to learn about Louisville.

Still have a question?

Please contact us if you don’t find the answer to your question above.