Connext 2022 is quickly approaching. Our first-ever hybrid conference is happening on Saturday, May 14.
Centered on the theme “Reimagining Leadership,” the day-long event will feature faculty sessions, panel and case discussions, and several networking opportunities.
While in-person tickets have sold out, virtual tickets are available. If you’re still on the waitlist for an in-person ticket, please feel free to register for a virtual one now.
Here’s what you can expect from Connext 2022.
What to Expect at Connext 2022
Hybrid Format
This year’s hybrid experience enables us to welcome HBS Online learners from around the world to Connext at scale.
On May 14, virtual attendees can log into the online platform at 8:00 a.m. ET, as in-person attendees start arriving on campus.
For virtual attendees, your registration confirmation email contains a link to join the event. Once you’ve logged in, acquaint yourself with the platform, curate your agenda, and say hello in the main chat.
For in-person attendees, check-in will take place in the Spangler Center, after which you can network with others over breakfast and in the conference app.
Please note that under HBS’s current guidelines, proof of vaccination and face masks are no longer required. Attendees are encouraged to wear face masks if they are immunocompromised or prefer to. If you’re feeling sick, have been asked to quarantine, or have tested positive for COVID-19 within five days, please “un-RSVP” on the event page and reregister for a virtual ticket to participate safely.
Hybrid Conference App
For the full hybrid experience, you’re invited to download the Connext 2022 conference app from the iOS App and Google Play stores. The app features the same functionality as the desktop platform, including:
- Chatting and networking with attendees of any ticket type
- Viewing and curating your agenda
- Participating in question and answer sessions with presenters
The app also enables you to participate in the conference on the go. We hope it provides flexibility and bridges the gap between the in-person and virtual experiences.
Opening Remarks and Keynote
The day will open with remarks from HBS Online Senior Associate Dean Luis Viceira, followed by a keynote from Professor Julie Battilana on how to use your power to make a positive impact.
Sessions with HBS Faculty and Leadership
Throughout the day, there will be several sessions featuring a variety of HBS professors and leadership. Sessions include:
- A panel discussion featuring Professor Lakshmi Ramarajan and Terrill Drake, HBS’s first chief diversity and inclusion officer, about creating a racially just, inclusive, and psychologically safe workplace (in-person and virtual)
- A large-scale discussion led by Professor Bharat Anand (in-person and virtual)
- Case discussions led by professors Randy Cohen, V.G. Narayanan, Mike Wheeler, Suraj Srinivasan, Forest Reinhardt, and Ethan Bernstein (in-person only)
- A Live Online Classroom (LOC) case discussion led by Professor Mitch Weiss (virtual only)
In-person attendees will be randomly assigned to faculty case discussions—please monitor your email for the link to your assigned reading.
While all virtual attendees can watch the LOC case discussion on the main stage, a select number have been chosen to participate in the LOC itself. Those selected have received an email confirming their status as a participant or standby participant. Please monitor your emails for your assigned reading and instructions for joining the LOC.
Networking Opportunities
Networking, knowledge-sharing, and connecting are what make Connext so special for our global community.
There will be three half-hour networking breaks throughout the day in addition to check-in, a lunch break, and closing reception.
During these times, attendees are encouraged to mingle in person and use the desktop platform or app to join virtual networking tables, chat with fellow attendees, and explore virtual booths.
One booth will feature presentations by several Community Organizers throughout the day, so be sure to stop by to connect with them and learn more about the HBS Online Community.
Closing Remarks & Announcements
HBS Online Executive Director Patrick Mullane will close out the programmed portion of the day with remarks and announcements.
Additional Fun
Following the closing remarks, attendees are invited to attend a reception.
The in-person reception will be held in the Spangler Center, and refreshments will be provided.
The virtual reception will be held on the platform’s main stage and feature a live session on creative notetaking and visual thinking from former HBS Online participant Melaine D’Cruze.
Throughout the day, document the event with our virtual photo booth, visit our social media wall and contribute by using the hashtag #HBSOnlineConnext, and shop for HBS Online swag virtually or at the Coop, which will be open on campus from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.
How to Follow Along
For those unable to join us at Connext, there are several ways to follow along throughout the day. Select sessions—including the opening remarks and panel discussion—will be livestreamed on HBS Online’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages.
You can also follow the hashtag #HBSOnlineConnext to see attendees’ real-time experiences and join the conversation.
The HBS Online team looks forward to welcoming you to Connext 2022. See you on Saturday, May 14!
To learn more about Connext, explore our frequently asked questions, along with a recap of 2021’s conference and one attendee’s meaningful takeaways.