NATA 2026: Don’t Forget To Pack

With the 77th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo June 29-July 2 in Philadelphia less than two weeks away, chances are you've started creating your packing list – or at least thought about it.

Along with your comfy shoes, business cards and expandable bag to carry your notebook, water bottle and AT Expo goodies, there might be an extra item or two you will want to add to the list.

Three NATA committees – the Historical Committee, Ethnic Diversity Advisory Committee and LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee – are hosting events that would require attendees to bring items with them. Keep reading and update your packing list as you see fit. 

Historical Committee’s Pin Exchange

From 4 to 5 p.m. June 30 at the NATA Hall of Fame Booth in the AT Expo, the Historical Committee will host its second annual pin exchange. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow NATA members who collect and trade NATA, district and state pins and patches. Be sure to bring yours and join the exchange. 

EDAC Dress for Success

EDAC will once again collect new or gently used, clean and freshly laundered professional clothing suitable for wearing to job interviews from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 29-July 1 and 8 a.m. to noon July 2 in Career Center Live. Donations will benefit Lincoln University in Philadelphia. Stop by and donate new or gently used business attire.

LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee Sock Drive

For the third year, the LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee will collect unused socks during convention. Bring a pack or two to benefit Covenant House Pennsylvania. While the collection location will be announced at a later date, representatives from Covenant House will pick up the sock donations during the LGBTQ+ Town Hall at 10:15 a.m. July 1.

BONUS: Not Sure What To Wear?

Attire for the NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo should balance comfort with the professional nature of the meeting. Business or smart casual attire is recommended, including dress shirts or blouses, polos, blazers, slacks, skirts and dark jeans.

Keep in mind that many sessions include hands-on labs and interactive learning experiences. Dress comfortably and in a way that allows you to participate so you can make the most of your convention experience.

And as someone heading into their 11th NATA convention, trust me, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

For full attendee guidelines and policies, visit the NATA 2026 Policies webpage.