2025 Call for Proposals FAQ

When can I submit my presentation proposal for the 2025 NASW National Conference?
We are currently accepting submissions to present at the 2025 NASW National Conference – Social Work: Celebrating Our Legacy | Developing The Future. The deadline for submitting a proposal is 11:59pm (EST)Monday, December 16, 2024.

When and where will the conference be held?
The 2025 NASW National Conference will be held June 15-19, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601.

What is the fee to submit a proposal?
There is no fee to submit a proposal. 

Where do I submit a proposal? 
Proposals are submitted online. Click on this link to access the Call for Proposals site: https://proposalspace.com/calls/d/1769

Do I have to be an NASW member to submit a proposal?
NASW membership is not a prerequisite for submitting a proposal or being listed as a co-presenter on a proposal. However, we do encourage you to become a member and receive the many benefits associated with membership including reduced rates for conference registration. Click here to join: www.socialworkers.org/join

What is the difference between the primary presenter and the co-presenters on a symposium proposal?
NASW assumes that the primary presenter is the “author” who will organize the session if the proposal is accepted. The primary presenter is responsible for ensuring that all co-presenters register on time at the presenter rate.

Can I submit more than one proposal?
You may submit only once as a primary/lead presenter. Only one submission per primary/lead presenter will be considered. However, you may be included as a co-presenter in another proposal.

Do I need to be a social worker to submit a proposal? 
No, you do not need to be a social worker. Social workers and allied professionals across practice areas are encouraged to submit a proposal. 

What are the registration requirements for presenters for the 2025 NASW National Conference?
The presenter(s) of proposals selected for presentation must register for the conference. Presenters will receive a discounted price point on the registration fee. Presenters must register for the conference by Monday, March 31, 2025, to confirm their sessions.

What are the presenter registration fees?
The registration fees for presenters are as follows:
NASW Member: $424
Student Member: $175
Retired Member: $175
Transitional Member: $175
Non-Member: $650

Am I automatically registered for the conference by submitting a proposal?
No. You must register for the conference separately. 

What type of session formats are offered during the proposal process?

• Symposium: Topic-focused 90-minute panel sessions with three presenters.
• Individual presentation: 45-minute presentations (NASW conference committee will schedule two individual presentations in a 90-minute session based on a common theme).
• Poster presentation: Posters will be displayed in the exhibit area throughout the conference. Poster presenters are encouraged to discuss their work with attendees at designated breaks. 

What issue areas do I select from when submitting my proposal?
You will be asked to select a specific issue area and level of intervention for your proposal from the broad topics noted below:

What are the levels of intervention?
You will be asked to select one of the following for your proposal:

• Micro
• Mezzo
• Macro

Can I edit my proposal after it has been submitted?
You can edit your proposal up to the December 16, 2024 submission deadline but not after the deadline.

How will my proposal be evaluated?
Conference proposals will be reviewed based on the following criteria: 

• The topic is consistent with the 2025 conference theme. 
• The proposal adheres to the conference proposal guidelines. 
• The abstract is well organized, concise, and clearly written. 
• The author clearly states the purpose and learning objectives of the presentation. 
• The abstract provides evidence of the author’s knowledge of the topic. 
• The topic and content are evidence-based.
• The subject contributes to a balanced conference program. 
• The author plans to incorporate audience engagement in a creative and educational way.

Reviewers will prioritize proposals based on a balanced program as well as the listed review criteria.

Can I withdraw my proposal after the submission deadline?
Yes. To withdraw a proposal submission, please email the conference team at naswconference@socialworkers.org immediately. 

How will I know that my proposal has been received?
You will receive an acknowledgement email as soon as your proposal has been submitted.

When will I be notified about my proposal?
You will be notified via email in February 2025 advising you whether your proposal has been selected. 

Where can I receive additional information if I have a question?
You may always email the conference planning team at naswconference@socialworkers.org.

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We look forward to receiving your proposal to present at the 2025 NASW National Conference.