SFNet COVID Safety Protocols

SFNet cares deeply about the health and safety of our members and conference attendees. As such, we are making every effort to provide an experience where people feel comfortable and have peace of mind. Be assured that we will monitor the most current federal and local guidelines and member policies to help keep you safe.

SFNet may require proof of vaccination and/or a negative COVID test result for certain in-person events. You will find the specific requirements for in-person attendance at each SFNet conference by clicking on the Events section of our website.

The CDC states that vaccinated people may resume domestic and specific international travel and refrain from testing and self-quarantining before or after travel. Mask requirements on public transportation and at transportation hubs are no longer in effect. CDC continues to recommend that people wear a mask in public indoor settings where the COVID-19 Community Level is high, regardless of vaccination status. SFNet will provide masks accordingly at all indoor venues. We urge all attendees, regardless of vaccination status, to follow the CDC’s guidance for staying safe in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Release and Assumption of Risk

As we continue taking important steps to provide for the health and safety of our attendees, we ask that you review our COVID-19 information, well-being protocols, and policies on this site. By registering for in-person attendance to this event you agree to adhere to the policies to sustain a healthy and safe environment for our attendees. It’s important that we all respond responsibly and transparently to these health precautions. Any and all private health and personal data will be treated with confidentiality and sensitivity.

Because COVID-19 is extremely contagious and is spread mainly from person-to-person contact, the Secured Finance Network (“SFNet”) has adopted preventative measures to reduce the spread of the COVID virus at its in-person conferences and events in accordance with guidance published by the CDC for events and gatherings, in coordination with event host properties. SFNet will comply with all applicable requirements imposed by state and local health authorities for the locality in which the conference or event takes place. However, SFNet cannot guarantee that in-person conference attendees will not become infected with COVID-19.

Individuals who fall within either of the categories listed below should not attend SFNet conferences or events in person:

Individuals who are experiencing, or within the 14 days prior to the conference or event have experienced, symptoms associated with COVID-19; or

Individuals who believe that they may have been exposed to a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and are not yet cleared as non-contagious by state or local public health authorities or the health care team responsible for their treatment. Conference and event attendees should self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and are asked to contact SFNet at sfnet@sfnet.com if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 within 14 days after participating in an SFNet conference or event.

FAQs

Will you require proof of vaccination?
SFNet will follow CDC, local city and hotel guidelines and mandates with regard to COVID protocols. Consistent with CDC guidance, SFNet strongly recommends that meeting attendees be vaccinated. We will not be requiring proof of vaccination unless doing so becomes a state, local or federal mandate prior to the conference.  

Will you require masks?
We strongly urge attendees who are fully vaccinated to follow the CDC’s Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People which includes the use of masks indoors in “high transmission areas.” People who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 should use prevention strategies such as wearing masks, physical distancing, hand hygiene, and respiratory etiquette. Masks will be provided at all indoor venues and at outdoor events. PPE and sanitizer will be available on-site for attendees to use at their discretion.

What precautions are you taking?
Much of the event will make use of outdoor space. Due to the hybrid format, most sessions can be viewed remotely if you choose not to be present in the room where the session is held. All indoor venues will have appropriate controls and protections. Please see SFNet’s COVID safety protocols and the Marriott Commitment to Clean for information on how the hotel is monitoring the CDC and WHO guidelines and providing a safe environment for their guests.

What happens if circumstances change and travel to Austin is impossible?
SFNet's 78th Annual Convention will not be cancelled. Due to our hybrid structure, if travel to Austin is not possible, the event will shift to a virtual-only format. We will fully leverage the SFNet Connect platform that worked so well for us under last year’s extraordinary circumstances. We are tracking guidance from our partners and resources daily and will report any new developments.

What is your refund policy?
All cancellation requests must be made in writing. A refund will be granted when the request is received 4 weeks prior to the Convention, minus a 10% processing fee. Refund requests should be emailed to Betty at BLam@sfnet.com.

Is my registration transferable?
Yes. If you find you are unable to attend, you may email Jeff Walsh at jwalsh@sfnet.com with the name of the person to whom you would like to transfer your registration.

What is the dress code?
Business casual is the standard for our Convention. If you plan to participate in golf or the 5k Fun Run, be sure to pack appropriate attire.

How do I host an event or dinner for my company, when/where should I schedule it?
Contact James Kravitz at jkravitz@sfnet.com or (917) 881-1247 to discuss hosting events or dinners during the Convention.

If my spouse joins me, what activities will be available for them?
The JW Marriott Austin offers many amenities and activities. You can find information about the hotel and the surrounding area on their website. 

What’s the weather going to be during the event?
In most years, Austin averages a daily high temperature around 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 Celsius), with a daily low around 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 Celsius). Average relative humidity is 70%.

What are the steps to register for the Convention?
Please refer to this document how to start and complete registration online.