REGISTER FOR SEJ2026

April 15–18, 2026 | University of Illinois Chicago

Join journalists, editors, students, scientists and community storytellers at SEJ’s 35th annual conference — and our first-ever gathering in Chicago. Whether you’re joining for the first time or returning after years, SEJ’s annual conference is designed to help you build skills, deepen your reporting and connect with colleagues across the industry and in the field.

Full Conference Passes: SEJ Members
Full Conference Passes: Nonmembers
Single Day Passes: Members & Nonmembers

REGISTRATION RATES

* Member pricing requires an active SEJ membership in good standing. If your status is lapsed or in a grace period, please renew to receive member pricing.

DISCOUNTS & STIPENDS

  • Join SEJ to unlock discounted conference rates. Membership application must be completed and approved before registering. Approval can take up to a week, so it’s recommended to apply for membership at least one week prior to any rate deadlines.

    First-year SEJ dues:

    • Standard: $40

    • Low-to-Mid Income Countries: $15

    • Student: $25

    Apply for Membership →

  • SEJ offers travel stipends to reduce financial barriers for SEJ members in need. Applications were due January 30, 2026, 11:59 p.m. PT. Submissions are now closed.

TRAVEL & LODGING

This year, SEJ is taking a flexible approach to lodging. Instead of offering a traditional hotel room block, we’re encouraging attendees to explore a wide range of accommodations that fit your budget, schedule and travel style. Chicago offers many excellent options near our UIC Forum conference venue (725 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608) — from major hotels to boutique stays and short-term rentals — giving you more freedom to choose what works best for you. 

Nearby Hotels:

Airbnb / Vrbo:

For short-term rental options, please refer to Airbnb or Vrbo and search the Near West Side / West Loop area of Chicago for locations nearest the UIC Forum, or near a Blue Line CTA station in The Loop, West Town or Logan Square for easy metro access.

FAQ:

  • Conference participants are welcome to explore an array of hotel options in the area that best match their needs and budget.

    The unofficial conference HQ will be at the nearby Crowne Plaza hotel, where you may find fellow attendees and SEJ team at the Rye Deli & Drink for afterhour drinks and socializing.

  • While Chicago Midway International Airport is closer to UIC Forum than Chicago O’Hare International Airport, attendees are encouraged to check which airport best supports their airline of choice.

  • SEJ2026 guests may use Chicago’s extensive public transit system (Chicago Transit Authorityor CTA) to travel within the city, as well as rideshare services such as Lyft or Uber.

  • Visa requirements for entry into the United States vary by country of citizenship. Attendees are responsible for determining their own visa and entry requirements. We recommend reviewing the U.S. Visa Waiver Program to confirm eligibility and required steps. Some past SEJ conference participants traveling from outside the United States have needed to apply for a B-1 visa.

  • SEJ is not an immigration or legal authority and cannot provide visa advice. We strongly recommend consulting official government immigration websites or your nearest embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

  • Yes, conference attendees who require a letter of invitation for a B-1 visa application may request one by contacting conference@sej.org. Conference registration is required before a letter of invitation can be issued. If a visa application is denied, applicants may request a refund of their conference registration upon providing verification of the denial.

POLICIES

SEJ’s annual conference is designed by and for journalists, and we welcome a wide range of participants, including reporters, editors, students, academics, scientists, policymakers, as well as leaders from nonprofit, government and business organizations. The views expressed by speakers and attendees are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of SEJ.

We expect all participants to engage respectfully, support open dialogue and refrain from disrupting sessions. SEJ members and other working journalists are given priority during Q&A periods.

All attendees must adhere to SEJ’s Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment Policy.

  • SEJ is committed to maintaining a professional and inclusive environment for all attendees. We prohibit discrimination, intimidation, threats, harassment (including sexual harassment) and abusive behavior. This policy applies to SEJ staff, members, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and all attendees.

    Anyone asked to stop unacceptable behavior must comply immediately. SEJ reserves the right to take action, including expulsion without refund and/or revocation of membership.

    If you experience or witness harassment, report it as soon as possible to SEJ Executive Director Aparna Mukherjee.

    Please read:

  • To cancel your registration, email conference@sej.org.

    • Cancel by March 23 → Full refund

    • Cancel March 30 → 50% refund

    • Starting March 31 → No refunds

    • No attendee substitutions can be made

    • Non-attendance does not constitute cancellation

REGISTER TODAY

Be part of the conversation shaping the future of environmental journalism.

Full Conference Passes: SEJ Members
Full Conference Passes: Nonmembers
Single Day Passes: Members & Nonmembers