🌍 KESSA Conference 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Venue: Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista Resort
Dates: September 3–6, 2026
Theme: “Scaling our Academic Prowess in a Changing Geopolitical and Economic Environment”
🔖 Registration & Membership FAQs
1. Do I need to be a KESSA member to attend the conference?
No. Both members and non‑members may attend. However, members receive discounted registration rates and additional benefits throughout the year.
2. How do I become a KESSA member?
You can join through the KESSA Membership Portal on the official website. Membership categories include professional, student, and institutional.
3. What are the conference registration categories and fees?
All prices include processing fees:
| Registration Category | Fee |
| Professional Member | $290 |
| Professional Non‑Member | $325 |
| Student Member | $125 |
| Student Non‑Member | $155 |
| Attendees Traveling from Kenya | $230 |
| Vendors | $350 |
| Virtual Attendees | $265 |
Each category has a dedicated Register button on the website.
4. What is included in my registration fee?
Registration includes:
- Access to all conference sessions
- Conference materials
- Networking events
- Select meals or receptions
- Access to digital updates and conference communication
Virtual attendees receive access to streamed sessions and digital materials.
5. Is there a special rate for attendees traveling from Kenya?
Yes. A discounted rate of $230 is available for attendees traveling from Kenya.
6. Are vendors allowed to exhibit at the conference?
Yes. Vendor registration is available at $350, which includes exhibition space and access to conference activities.
7. What is the cancellation and refund policy?
The full cancellation and refund policy will be posted on the KESSA website. Attendees are encouraged to review it before completing registration.
🏨 Hotel & Accommodation FAQs
8. What is the official conference hotel rate?
KESSA has secured a special conference rate of $109 per night at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista Resort.
9. What does the $109 per night rate include?
The discounted rate typically includes:
- Suite‑style rooms
- Complimentary breakfast
- Evening reception (hotel standard)
- Access to hotel amenities such as the pool and fitness center
10. Are there alternative hotels nearby?
Yes. KESSA also recommends:
- Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista
Additional hotel options may be listed as the conference approaches.
🌍 International Attendee FAQs
11. Do international attendees need a visa?
Most non‑U.S. citizens require a B‑1/B‑2 visitor visa to attend academic conferences.
12. Can KESSA provide a visa invitation letter?
Yes. Registered participants may request an official visa support letter through the KESSA website.
13. Which airport should international attendees use?
The nearest major airport is Orlando International Airport (MCO), located 20–25 minutes from the venue.
14. What should international attendees know about payments?
- All fees are paid in USD
- Major credit/debit cards are accepted
- Currency exchange services are available at airports and major banks
🎤 Conference Experience FAQs
15. Will there be keynote speakers?
Yes. Keynote speakers will be announced on the KESSA website closer to the event.
16. Who typically attends the KESSA Conference?
Attendees include:
- Scholars and researchers
- Graduate and undergraduate students
- Professionals and practitioners
- Government and embassy officials
- Vendors and community partners
17. Will virtual participation be available?
Yes. Virtual registration is available for $265, offering access to streamed sessions and digital materials.
18. What can I do in Orlando during the conference?
Orlando offers world‑class attractions including:
- Walt Disney World
- Universal Studios
- SeaWorld
- Dining, shopping, and entertainment districts
📬 Contact Information FAQs
19. How can I contact KESSA for general inquiries?
For all general questions, please email:
📧 info@kessa.org
20. Who do I contact for conference‑specific questions?
For questions about registration, abstracts, hotel information, or travel:
📧 conference@kessa.org
21. Who do I contact for membership questions?
For membership enrollment, renewals, or benefits:
📧 membership@kessa.org
22. Who do I contact for vendor or sponsorship inquiries?
For vendor booths, sponsorship packages, or partnerships:
📧 vendors@kessa.org or vicepresident@kessa.org