Know Before You GoOrlando, December 2 to 6, 2026
Everything you need before you arrive: how to get to the resort, what to pack, what to wear, and the policies that apply to your registration.
Travel and Transportation
The conference takes place at Rosen Shingle Creek, about 11 miles from Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Uber and Lyft from MCO
Rideshare is readily available at Orlando International. Allow about 12 to 15 minutes by car under normal traffic. Verify your shuttle or rideshare arrival time in advance.
Route and Tolls
Take FL-528 (Beachline Expressway) west to Exit 2 for Universal Boulevard. The standard highway route includes tolls.
Rideshare Pickup Locations at MCO
| Terminal | Pickup Location |
|---|---|
| Terminals A and B | Level 2, Arrivals Curb (24 hours), or Level 3, Departures Curb (9:00 PM to 2:00 AM) |
| Terminal C | Level 6, Arrivals Curb |
Parking
Parking options and rates are set by the resort. Call the hotel at (866) 996-9939 before you travel to confirm current self and valet parking details.
Conference Airline Discounts
Discount windows vary by airline, so check the travel dates on each offer.
Discounted fares through SWABIZ. Valid for travel November 29 to December 7, 2026. Rapid Rewards members earn a 50% bonus when booking through the conference link.
Use code ZRST770404 at united.com/meetingtravel. Valid for travel November 29 to December 7, 2026. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations.
Promo code N6J986M1, booked to Orlando (MCO). Travel period November 25 to December 12, 2026. North America: 5% off standard fares, 10% off flex fares and higher.
Full booking links are on the Hotel and Travel Accommodations page.
Mobility Scooter Rentals
The resort is a large complex. NABSE has partnered with Scootaround so attendees who need assistance getting around can rent a mobility scooter.
Covers the five conference days.
For attendees arriving early or staying late.
Take 10% off your rental. Listed rates are before the discount and do not include the delivery fee.
Reserve directly with Scootaround
A dedicated NABSE reservation link is being prepared and will be posted here soon. You will reserve and pay for your scooter directly with Scootaround.
Hotel Details to Know
Two things worth knowing ahead of your stay so there are no surprises at checkout.
per night at Rosen Shingle Creek.
per night, released 3 to 7 business days after checkout.
Cancel at least 72 hours before arrival to avoid a one night room and tax charge.
Register first, then reserve your room
Conference registration is required before you can make a hotel reservation. Your registration confirmation email includes the special NABSE rate and the link to reserve your room.
Weather in Orlando
December in Orlando is mild and sunny, but plan for a cooler evening and chilly meeting rooms.
Daytime
Typically in the low 70s Fahrenheit. Light layers work well outdoors.
Evenings
Cooler, often in the 50s. Bring a jacket or wrap for evening events and walks between venues.
Indoors
Meeting rooms and ballrooms can run cold. A light sweater or blazer is a smart carry-in.
Pack With Purpose
Five days of sessions, receptions, and evening events. Here is what to bring.
Business Attire
Professional outfits for conference sessions, paired with comfortable shoes and a light or medium-weight jacket for indoors and out.
Event and Evening Attire
Pack clothing for the themed evening events and the formal Awards Gala. See the dress code section below for each event.
Casual Wear
Comfortable clothes for downtime, networking breaks, and time exploring the resort and Orlando.
Networking Essentials
Bring plenty of business cards, or download a digital business card app such as Blinq or Hi Hello to share your contact information quickly.
- Photo ID and your registration confirmation
- Phone and charger, plus a portable battery
- Business cards or a digital card app
- HBCU, college, sorority, or fraternity gear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket, wrap, or blazer for cool rooms
What to Wear and When
Business attire is appropriate for most general and breakout sessions. Evening events have their own dress.
| Event | When | Attire |
|---|---|---|
| General and breakout sessions | All week | Business attire |
| NABSE Welcome Networking Event: NABSE En Blanc | Wed, Dec 2, 8:00 PM | All White |
| NABSE @ NIGHT | Thu, Dec 3, 8:00 PM | Festive evening attire |
| Regional Luncheons | Fri, Dec 4, 12:30 PM | Business attire |
| NABSE Red Carpet | Sat, Dec 5, 7:00 PM | Black Tie |
| Awards Gala: An Evening of Empowerment and Excellence | Sat, Dec 5, 8:00 PM | Black Tie / Formal |
| Ecumenical Service | Sun, Dec 6, 9:00 AM | Business or Sunday best |
The Awards Gala is a ticketed event
The Awards Gala is a formal, black-tie evening on Saturday. Gala tickets are not included in standard conference registration fees and are available as an add-on through the NABSE website.
Show your NABSE family pride
Bring your HBCU, college, sorority, and fraternity gear to connect with your fellow attendees.
Get the Conference App
Download the app before you arrive so your schedule is ready when you land.
Download Whova
Go to the App Store or Google Play and search for “Whova.” Personalize your profile, build your schedule, find attendees, and receive real-time communication from NABSE.
Session Presentations
To access session presentations, open the Whova app and tap the session icon. You can also take notes and download handouts and presentations there.
Mark Your Calendar
A few moments you will not want to miss. The full program is on the Schedule at a Glance page.
8:00 AM Golf Tournament and Parents Day Summit
8:00 PM NABSE En Blanc
7:00 AM First Timer's and Welcome Back
8:00 PM NABSE @ NIGHT
12:30 PM Regional Luncheons
2:00 PM Job Fair
7:00 PM Red Carpet
8:00 PM Awards Gala
9:00 AM Ecumenical Service
Conference Registration Terms
Please review these terms before you register or travel.
Payment and Registration
- NABSE accepts credit cards and school district checks only.
- Declined credit cards may delay registration.
- All registration fees must be paid in full before you receive conference materials.
- A $30 fee applies to all returned checks.
- On-site registration is available.
Badges
- Conference badges must be worn to gain access to all conference activities.
- Your full name and organization appear on your credentials exactly as provided at registration, so check your entry carefully.
Registration Transfers
- A non-refundable $75 fee applies to transfer a registration from one person to another.
- Requests must be submitted at least 14 business days before the start of the conference.
- Submit your request through the Registration Transfer Request form on the NABSE website.
Cancellations
No refunds will be granted.
NABSE is not responsible for weather-related cancellations, illnesses, acts of God, travel-related problems, terrorism, loss of employment, duplicate purchases, or other costs incurred by attendees in connection with the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve my hotel room?
Can I register on site?
Is the Awards Gala included in my registration?
Can I send a colleague in my place?
Are mobility scooters available?
Where do I find session presentations?
Who do I contact with other questions?
Register for Our 54th Annual Conference Today
Join educators, administrators, and advocates from across the country and around the world.
Register for Conference Questions? 2026registration@nabse.org
