Each year , the program reflects the beauty and uniqueness of the host state. Please review your delegate handbook - typically sent about one week prior to program launch - for specific details regarding your experience.

DAY 1: DELEGATES ARRIVE: Details regarding your transportation from the airport to the hotel will be detailed in your Delegate Handbook. The evening of your arrival, you will attend a kick-off event to officially welcome you to the program.

DAY 2: LEADERSHIP FORUM: This is your opportunity to engage in intimate conversations with Governors, former Governors and other thought leaders from around the West.

DAY 3: FIRST DAY OF WGA ANNUAL MEETING: Engage with panels and keynotes addressing the most critical challenges facing the West.

DAY 4: SECOND DAY OF WGA ANNUAL MEETING

DAY 5: THIRD DAY OF THE WGA ANNUAL MEETING / DEPART: Details regarding your transportation to the airport will be detailed in your Delegate Handbook.

Figuring out what clothes to bring can be intimidating. Here are some suggestions.

KICK OFF EVENT: Dressy casual. Jeans and a nice top is fine, or a casual dress or skirt is also acceptable.

LEADERSHIP FORUM: Business formal. Suits are acceptable as are business dresses or skirts. Formal wear specific to your culture is also acceptable.

WGA ANNUAL MEETING: Business casual. Slacks and a nice shirt are acceptable as are appropriately cut dresses and skirts.

ANY DELEGATE-ONLY EVENT: Casual. Jeans, shorts, and t-shirts are acceptable.

Please note that the foundation will provide you with a maroon polo. You will be notified which day we request you to wear it. If you are concerned about what to wear with it, black pants or a black skirt is always a safe bet.

BUSINESS CARDS: There will be networking opportunities with Governors and WGA sponsors. Strengthen your connections with business cards.

A LIGHT JACKET: Our conference rooms are air-conditioned and can be a bit chilly. We recommend bringing a light jacket to stay comfortable.

SNACKS/WATER: We strive to keep you well-fed, but bringing snacks is a good idea if you get hungry between sessions or while on the go. This also applies to water bottles, though we do our best to provide beverages at all of our formal events.

A LITTLE EXTRA SPACE IN YOUR LUGGAGE: Just in case you pick up a few cool souvenirs along the way!

HAVE QUESTIONS PREPARED FOR THE LEADERSHIP FORUM: Know who will be presenting at the Leadership Forum and have questions ready. A speaker directory will be shared with you before your visit.

NETWORK WITH A PLAN: Take a look at the WGA sponsor list. Those are the companies and organizations likely to be at the networking events. Make a list of those you would like to meet.

HAVE FUN: This should be a rewarding experience. While we emphasis the learning aspect of our program, we leave room in the schedule for you to get to know your fellow delegates. The delegates who get the most out of the program are those who not only engage with the planned programming, but form bonds and create friendships. “Heck, go to a bar or get ice cream when you’re invited!” says former Montana Delegate Andee Baker.

GO IN WITH AN OPEN MIND: “Each cohort consists of people from all kinds of backgrounds, each bringing something unique to the table” says Issac Hernandez-Alcaraz, former Nevada State Delegate. “Have conversations, ask questions, and build connections. There’s so much to learn, not just from the sessions, but from each other. Take it all in and enjoy the experience!”

BRING YOUR BADGE CREDENTIALS TO ALL EVENTS: The Western Governors’ Foundation will issue you a Delegate badge. Please wear this badge at all WGA and WGF events, as it serves as your official identification for security purposes. Without it, you may be denied entry or even asked to leave. You’ll be around Governors and other high-profile individuals; we don't want anyone getting tackled by security!

STAY IN TOUCH AFTER THE PROGRAM: Stay connected with the foundation through the Western Leadership Network, LinkedIn, or email. The foundation provides ongoing opportunities for our alumni, including professional development experiences, fellowships, letters of recommendation, job postings, networking connections, and more.