After much consideration and continuous monitoring of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has made the difficult decision to cancel 2021 Midwest Institute and 2021 Northeast Institute.  We know you were looking forward to returning to the classroom this summer, and we recognize that this news is frustrating to learn.  2021 Southeast Institute, or the Centennial Site, will be moved from June to Monday, November 8 – Friday, November 12.  All attendees associated with all sites are welcomed to join.

Unfortunately, there is no path forward for the Midwest site in 2021.  Based on limited information regarding restrictions and regulations from the University of Wisconsin, in addition to the U.S. Chamber’s current ban on travel and in-person events through the summer, there is no responsible way to conduct Midwest Institute this summer.

Specific to the Northeast site, Villanova University confirmed that they have cancelled all of their summer programs, including Institute.

While contracts have yet to be finalized, Institute staff is currently working with the University of Georgia for a limited on-site program to take place in November, when hopefully it will be safer to gather in large groups.  Please note the schedule will shift to a Monday – Friday program, in order to accommodate the UGA home football schedule.  This option for a fall program is only possible at UGA due to meeting space requirements and capabilities, but please note that any attendee associated with any site can participate.  More information will be shared in the coming weeks.

In conjunction with the on-site program in November, a hybrid option is being explored, which would provide an opportunity for virtual participation from all sites.  More information on this front will be available in the coming months.

While not intended to replace the Institute experience, we are excited to announce the continuation of Institute’s webinar series, which beginning in April, will take place once a month.  Please view the Webinars and Resource webpage for the schedule.

The U.S. Chamber continues to work closely with the White House, U.S. government agencies, and state officials to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for long-term impact.  You may find a wealth of resources available through the COVID-19 resource center. Additionally, you can also find the vaccine digital resource center by clicking here.

Unless a refund had been requested and issued, tuition payments received in 2020 can continue to roll over to 2022 or be applied to the November program.  You may request a refund by emailing iom@uschamber.com.

We are disappointed to not be on-site this summer, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we all navigate this pandemic together.  We look forward to a fall program, and to returning to Tucson in 2022.  Dates for the 2022 season can be found on our website.

Thank you,

Institute Staff
Raymond, Karyn, Katelynne, Isabel, and Andrew