DC SIG Activities
Kathleen SideliNAFSA’s Lesbigay SIG began announcing its presence at NAFSA’s 50th Anniversary conference by having a stack of rainbow-framed promotional flyers available at the hospitality desk in the registration area. In this way conference attendees had a faster introduction to the SIG than is normally the case. This probably accounts for the unprecedented attendance--over 100--at the SIG annual meeting, including many first-timers. Since a crowd that size hadn’t been anticipated the room was overflowing and very hot! Nevertheless, the group had an animated meeting where many issues were covered, including a review of the past five years and a brain-storming session to plan for the next five (see minutes enclosed here).
Following the meeting, a few dozen SIG members ambled down to the Circle for a reception. But instead of the planned private terrace party out in the DC humidity, we socialized more cozily in the air-conditioned bar, munching on chips and tuna salad w hich were on the house (it’s a long story). Since generous SIG members have expanded the group’s bank account, we guarantee more delectable treats for next year’s social event! Those who hadn’t yet finished their conversations paraded down the street to a ‘close by’ French restaurant which must have been almost a mile away. Luckily La Fourchette just happened to have an empty reception room upstairs which accommodated the 22 hungry SIG members who dined on fine food and wine for hours before walking back to the conference hotel.
From reports of various SIG members we understand that a number of small groups of SIG members met socially around the city during the conference. Clearly there is a need for more opportunities for collegial interaction early on in the conference and the `99 planners are already considering a restaurant hop for the SIG in addition to the social get-together and the annual business meeting. Please send us your ideas for these or other venues. What is clear is that the SIG brings together the most affab le, fun-loving and congenial NAFSAns!
This article appeared in the Fall 1998 edition of Lesbigay SIGnals
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Comments: NAFSA: Rainbow SIG