Social & Networking Events

sunday may 18

SFS Student Resources Committee Orientation and Breakfast

The Society for Freshwater Science (SFS) Student Resources Committee (SRC) invites all student delegates to a student-centered orientation and breakfast. Learn about SFS, the SRC, how we serve the student members of SFS, and the various activities (e.g., student-mentor mixer, live auction, virtual events) we host. Meet other student delegates and get some helpful tips on how to make the most out of the conference. Undergraduate and graduate students from all societies are welcome. 

When: 7:00 - 8:30 AM, Monday May 19

Where: PRCC Liberty Lounge/Cafe (Ground Level), Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance.

SFS Committees Lunch Meeting

Committee members will gather for their annual planning meeting. Committees include: Board of Directors, Executive, Finance, Board of Trustees of the Endowment, Journal Endowment, Election and Place, Awards Selection, Long Range Planning, Annual Meeting, Publications, Communications, Constitutional Revision, Student Resources, Early Career Development, Taxonomic Certification, Science and Policy, International Coordination, Conservation and Environmental Issues, Education, and Membership and Data. The event also provides an opportunity for SFS members interested in committee service to learn about each committee’s work from SFS leadership and committee chairs and current members.

When: Monday May 19, 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Where: Ballroom A, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance. Open to members of the standing and special committees of the Society for Freshwater Science and all those interested in SFS committee service.

Student-Mentor Mixer

The student-mentor mixer is designed to facilitate interactions between students and experienced professionals. Mentors may include aquatic science professors, research associates, post-doctoral researchers, government employees, and private consultants. This mixer provides students a great opportunity to network and engage in lively conversation with mentors and peers in a relaxed environment. Each student will be assigned to a mentor. Pre-registration is required. 

When: 6:00 - 8:00PM, Monday May 19

Where: Aloft Hotel

Cost: Free to register for students and mentors. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance.

5km Fun Run

Registration will include a fun run swag and timing equipment to record your run. Route detail and further information will be available closer to the meeting. 

When: start time to be advised, Tuesday May 20

Where: starting location to be advised

Cost: USD $40.00

education and diversity mixer

When: Tuesday May 20, 5:00pm - 7:00pm

Where: Exhibition/Poster Hall, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance. Open to attendees interested in teaching, including undergraduates.

SFS Membership Business Lunch

SFS leadership–including outgoing and incoming officers–will discuss the Society’s work over the past year. Other agenda items include approval of business meeting minutes and membership votes.

When: Tuesday May 20, 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Where: Ballroom A, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance. Open to all members of the Society for Freshwater Science.

SRC live Auction & BINGO

Join us on Tuesday, May 20th at 8:00 pm, following the Endowment reception, for a live auction of crafts, swag, and more donated by fellow SFS members! The Live Auction will be followed by musical bingo! All proceeds will benefit the SRC and fund student opportunities.

When: 8:00PM onwards, Tuesday May 20

Where: El Mirador, Sheraton Hotel

Cost: Free entry, drinks at bar prices

Lunchtime recruitment mixer

The SFS Early Career Committee invites ALL MEMBERS to participate in a FREE lunchtime workshop focused on RECRUITMENT. Are you looking for your next position? About to graduate? Join us to find your next science home. Or perhaps you’re after that next amazing grad student? A technician to fill out the team? A postdoc with just the right set of skills? Find them here. Register now - this event is limited to the first 80 registrants!

When: Wednesday May 21, 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Where: Ballroom A, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance. Lunch provided.

SRC Science Communication Workshop

Theme: Bridging the Gap Between Experts and the Public

This year's workshop is aimed at refining the skill of science communication. Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop that is designed to help scientists, researchers and professionals communicate complex scientific ideas with clarity and impact. We will be providing tools to aid in the complexity of storytelling, visual aids and other strategies that can tailor your research to different audiences and navigate the challenges of public speaking. Limited spots available, pre-registration is required.!

When: Wednesday May 21, 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Where: Room 202A, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance. Lunch provided.

SRC Cross-Current Conversations: Story Circles for Inclusive Science

Join us for this engaging DEI session focused on building connections through storytelling. In small, rotating groups, participants will share personal stories related to their work, cultural backgrounds, and experiences in freshwater science. This interactive format encourages vulnerability, active listening, and empathy. As you participate, collect stamps in your “Connection Passport” to complete a “full circle” of perspectives. Take part in this unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of inclusivity and strengthen your ties within the SFS community.

When: Wednesday May 21, 5:15pm - 6:45pm

Where: Ballroom A, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: Free. Please RSVP via the registration page to confirm your attendance

Evening social

Details to come

When: Wednesday May 21

Where: The Terrace, Puerto Rico Convention Centre

Cost: USD $25.00 includes catering and 2 beverage tickets