Registration, trade show, NSMC desk, Best of Show entries, merch distribution

Ryman Hall A2 (Exhibition Level 0) will be a central location for the convention. See below for all the exciting things happening in this exhibit hall on Friday.

REGISTRATION CHECK-IN (7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday): The registration desk is at the back of the trade show floor. Those who have registered must check in to pick up school packets that include name badges, printed programs and event tickets (Break with a Pro, adviser luncheon). It is best for only the advisers to check in their delegation, paying fees if needed. The convention registration desk will also house convention lost and found.

JEA CONTEST DESK (7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday): Schools registered for the JEA National Student Media Contests must pick up their contest packet containing student ID labels and additional instructions at the JEA Contest Desk. If you have not paid, you must do so at this time. The deadline for substitutions in preregistered categories is 10:30 a.m. Friday. No new entries will be accepted at the convention. Contest check-in will move to Delta C & D Desks (Main Level 2) from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday.

NSPA BEST OF SHOW ENTRIES (7:30 a.m. to noon Friday): The Best of Show competition is open to NSPA-member student media outlets. High school publications are eligible if students serving on the staff of the media outlet are registered convention attendees, and middle school media can enter if the adviser is a registered delegate at the convention. Individual Recognition entries were due prior to the convention, and Staff Recognition entries are due by noon Friday at the Best of Show desk. Winners will be announced at the NSPA awards ceremony on Saturday.

TRADE SHOW AND COLLEGE FAIR (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday): Dozens of national and local vendors and colleges will educate and entertain during the trade show and college fair. Find out what's new, chat with company representatives, pick up information and have some fun.

CONVENTION MERCH DISTRIBUTION (8 a.m. to noon Friday): If your school purchased the official convention merchandise through online registration, you may pick it up in Ryman Hall A2 near registration. Large orders will be bundled together and should be picked up by the adviser. Preordered items must be picked up no later than noon Friday.