Georgia Association of Colleges & Employers (GACE)

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CONFERENCE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

GACE GIVES:

GACE Gives is a charitable fundraiser sponsored by GACE to benefit a non-profit organization in the host city of our conference with a mission that aligns with GACE values.

The honored organization for the 2026 Annual Conference is Safe Harbor Center, Inc.

Safe Harbor Center, Inc. is an organization providing safety, advocacy, and healing services for individuals and families in crisis. The Safe Harbor Center consists of several different units, including:

Safe Harbor Children's Center
Zach's Place: Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter
STRIVE Transitional Living Services
Children's Advocacy Center
Connie Smith Rape Crisis Center
Street Beat: Street Outreach Program
Family Preservation
Safe Place
Thrift Shop and Donation Center
The Village: Helping Young Mothers in Need

To support the House of Safe Harbor Center, Inc., bring donation items to Annual Conference 2026 at Sea Palms. The designated GACE Gives Donation Drop-Off point is the Conference Registration Desk.

We are collecting the following items:

Clothing
Personal Hygiene Items
Bedding and Towels
Baby Supplies
Canned Food Items
Art Supplies
Recreational items

To see a complete list of requested items, check out the Safe Harbor Center, Inc. Ongoing Needs Handout.

Yes! If you or your organization would like to make a monetary donation, please visit the Safe Harbor Center, Inc. donation link. Please put "GACE Gives" in the memo line.

You can drop off your donations for the Safe Harbor Center, Inc. at the GACE Donation Drop-off in the registration area (lobby/foyer) at the Sea Palms Resort, St. Simons Island, GA.

CONFERENCE SOCIAL ACTIVITIES:

GACE is all about the learning but we leave some time for informal networking and fun too. Consider one of the following options for your Thursday Afternoon Networking Break.

Layover by the Pool with your GACE Friends from 2pm - 4pm (at the Golf Shop Pool)
Visit the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
Take the Resort Shuttle to the St. Simons Beaches
Visit the Bell Mountain Park and Historical Site
Plan something that is uniquely you at Sea Palms like golf, bike riding, and more!

GACE has set aside time for a meal and networking with friends. On Thursday, May 28th, schedule a lunch on or off-site and feel free to engage in the local attractions. (However, just don't forget to give yourself time to get ready for the evening's Awards Banquet - featured below)

The Sea Palms Resort offers a wide variety of activities onsite at the resort.

The Resort offers

Outdoor pool
Fitness facility
The Pool Yard
Bike rentals & Pedigo Electric Bike rental
Sea Palms Golf Course
Sago at Sea Palms Restaurant

The hospitality Suite is an informal gathering location where attendees can kick back and relax after a long day of programming. This year we are calling it the SkyLounge!

Open each evening (Tuesday - Thursday), the Sky Lounge is where you can grab a beverage and a snack and chit chat with your new and old GACE Friends. You may also get to experience a GACE Tradition called Left, Right Center!

The Sky Lounge is located in the Dogwood Suite. Check your Conference Schedule for evening hours each day!

PACKING INFORMATION:

Daily Programming and Speaker Sessions: Dress business casual or professional attire (but be comfortable). Remember conference rooms can be cold. We suggest bringing a sweater, just in case.

President's Dinner: Dress as casual or formal (your choice).

Awards Banquet: Dress to impress. Cocktail or Banquet style attire is encouraged but not required. Just remember, its a Garden Soirée.

One of the highlights of Conference will be the Gardens of the Globe Soirée, our garden party–themed Awards Banquet celebrating achievements, connections, and our shared journey together.

Think garden inspired, polished, and playful—florals, light fabrics, bright or pastel colors, and breezy silhouettes are all welcome. Choose something that feels comfortable, confident, and fun for you.

Need some inspiration? Explore our Gardens of the Globe SoiréeGardens of the Globe Soirée Look Book for outfit ideas and styling inspiration

Aside from your traditional packing list, here are some GACE Conference specific items that might be helpful!