Q: Where will the seminar be held?
A: The seminar will take place at Troy University in Troy, Alabama.
Q: When will the seminar be held?
A: Seminar participants may register and check-in onsite any time after 9:00 a.m. but before 10:15 a.m. on May 27, 2022. The seminar will begin with the opening session on May 27, 2022 at 10:15 a.m. and conclude with a Closing Reception on May 29, 2022, between 1:00 and 2:00 p.m. You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight.
Q: When should I arrive?
A: Seminar participants should arrive the morning of May 27, 2022. Participants may register and check-in onsite any time after 9:00 a.m. but before 10:15 a.m. on May 27, 2022.
Q: Where should I go when I arrive?
A: Registration will take place across from the Dining Hall, outside of Rushing Hall, which is located on University Avenue. There will be signs directing you to registration once on campus.
Q: What kind of program is planned?
A: During the HOBY Leadership Seminar, many dynamic leaders—all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, and other professions—will address aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, religion, or way of thinking; but is designed to develop critical thinking skills by actively involving participants in discussions and informal debate. During the seminar, you will be asked to undertake a community service project(s) involving at least 100 hours during the year following your seminar, to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or other environment where you see a need. The program also includes outstanding speakers, leadership activities, social events, and a special closing ceremony to which your parents are invited.
Q: What are the accommodations like?
A: Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with two to four participants per room on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar and designated by gender. Everyone will receive breakfast, lunch and dinner. While the dorm rooms are fully furnished, you will need to bring the following: Twin bed sheets, blanket, pillow, towels, washcloths, and other toiletry items as needed. On the Medical History Records Form, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Q: What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar?
A: Please provide information about your medication on the Medical History Records Form and bring the Physician Medication Verification Form with you to the seminar (documents are included in this packet). Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.
Q: If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar?
A: Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call the Troy University Police Department at 334-670-3215, Monday thru Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All other times please call 334-670-1999. HOBY personnel can be reached by calling 256-348-HOBY. The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.
Q: Who pays for the seminar?
A: Your school, parent, or a community organization has paid a Registration Fee and will provide transportation to and from the seminar. All costs for meals, lodging and training materials have been generously provided by sponsors throughout our state, including businesses, foundations, individuals, and service organizations wishing to support leadership education. If your registration payment has not been received, we will be in contact with you regarding payment.
Q: What should I wear at the seminar?
A: Dress is casual throughout the weekend. Shorts are perfectly acceptable for Friday and Saturday. Sunday attire is “business casual.” For Gentlemen, this typically means pants (khaki or chino style) and nice button down or polo style shirt). For Ladies this typically means a dress (the length and style of the dress should be appropriate for a school event) or pants and a nice shirt. You will be provided a red HOBY t-shirt which all ambassadors will wear on Saturday.
Q: What about religious services?
A: A non-denominational Christian service will be available for students on Sunday morning. There will also be an option for students who do not wish to attend the service.
Q: What transportation arrangements have been made?
A: You are responsible for your transportation to and from the seminar. Please include all details of your itinerary on the enclosed Participant Confirmation Form.
Q: What if I am unable to attend the seminar.
A: If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. Please touch base with the person at your school who selected you, and follow up with an email to Caroline Minter (Director of Recruitment) at caroline@alabamahoby.org
Q: Who may I contact should I have additional questions?
A: Additional questions or concerns should be directed to questions@alabamahoby.org.
Q: What action should I take now?
A: With your parent or guardian, carefully review, complete and sign the forms in this set by May 9, 2020.