Held biennially in July, the National Convention brings together the foremost experts on Williams syndrome and related characteristics to discuss the latest research findings, medical treatments, and educational strategies. More than fifty educational sessions provide families with the latest resources and information, while children are entertained and cared for in specialized age-appropriate programs.

SAVE THE DATE!

2024 Williams Syndrome Association National Convention

When: Tuesday, July 9 - Saturday, July 13, 2024

Where: Hyatt Regency Downtown Phoenix

When Can I Book: 

To get the best rates, wait to reserve your room in our convention room block. The hotel block will open towards the end of 2023. We will send out notifications once these rooms are released. This page will be updated regularly, so check back for additional & updated information.

Concerns Around Heat: 

Phoenix’s convention center and our hotel, the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, have state-of-the-art indoor facilities. These venues are equipped with advanced cooling systems (indoors & outdoors), ensuring a comfortable environment for attendees despite the high temperatures outside. It is important to note that we are taking precautions to ensure the comfort and safety of attendees during the event. This includes providing ample hydration stations, scheduling indoor activities, outdoor misters, VERY short walking distances, and offering transportation options to minimize exposure to any extreme temperatures. Plus, check out these additional tips to beat the heat.

COVID-19 Information and Instructions:

The safety of our members is a top priority for the WSA convention team. At this time, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required to attend. Masks are welcomed but not required. We intend to follow city, state, and federal guidance. Please note that we may need to make adjustments to our safety policies if health mandates change.

Here are a few important times and dates:

Tuesday, July 9:

  • Convention registration will begin early afternoon
  • Program registration for children and adults with WS will begin mid-afternoon
  • A new family welcome session will be held mid-afternoon
  • Our opening party/event will be held early evening.

Wednesday, July 10 - Saturday, July 13 (all day)

  • Parent sessions and programs for all children & teens, and adults with WS

Saturday, July 13 in the evening:

  • Closing dance party!

complete pre-convention survey here!

CONVENTION SCHOLARSHIPS

The WSA offers scholarships for our biennial conventions. Generally, we will be providing need-based scholarship awards to both individuals and families at various levels (up to a maximum award of $2000) to help offset convention expenses for educational sessions and programs (parents/caregivers and children/adults with WS and their siblings) and travel. Optional items are not covered by scholarships. Our general scholarship fund information is below, so please continue with that if it applies to you.  The PM Minority scholarship fund provides special funding for Black families of a child with Williams syndrome.  Established by a generous peer, the fund is intended to increase access to WSA programs for families in financial need.  Funding priorities are for African-American, Caribbean, African, or Black Latino (from Latin American countries) families. Central and South American, as well as Caribbean Latinos, may also apply. Watch for information in early 2024 for scholarships for our next convention.