FAQ: 2020 Mackinac Policy Conference Cancellation
June 9, 2020When we decided to move the Mackinac Policy Conference from May to August, optimism reigned. It seemed, even by expert accounts, that we would be in a different place come late summer. But it turned out that, as a state, we all just did not know what we did not know. It has become clear that “social distancing” will be with us for quite a while. If there is one thing the Conference has never been and could never be, it is socially distant.
The Chamber has made the difficult decision to not host any large events for at least the rest of 2020, including the Mackinac Policy Conference. The cancellation of the Mackinac Policy Conference also extends to MICHauto on the Island and Mackinac Future Leaders programming.
This decision was made in accordance with the current recommendations published by the Center for Disease Control and by consulting with many of its member businesses to understand their anticipated policies for meetings and events for the remainder of 2020.
This decision was made to ensure the health and safety of its members, constituents, and staff. Given how important events have been to our membership experience this was an extremely tough call to make, but one that is necessary. We are exploring other, digital formats to curate conversation and drive action around the crucial immediate and longer-time issues that will drive our region and state’s prosperity.
2. When will the Conference occur in 2021?
The Detroit Regional Chamber and Grand Hotel look forward to welcoming attendees back in 2021. The 2021 Mackinac Policy Conference is scheduled for Tuesday, June 1, 2021 through Friday, June 4, 2021. The Chair for the 2021 Conference was named at the 2019 Conference as Wright L. Lassiter III, the president and CEO of Henry Ford Health System. Registration will open in November 2020.
3. What will happen with my registration and what is the refund process?
A representative from the Chamber’s engagement team will be reaching out to all registrants of the Conference in the coming days. If you need immediate assistance, please contact Marianne Bogard at mbogard@detroitchamber.com.
4. How do I cancel my hotel reservation?
The Grand Hotel and the hoteliers on Mackinac Island are aware of the cancellation of the Conference. Contact your hotel and confirm your reservation has been cancelled. The cancellation is subject to the hotel policy.
If you would like to CANCEL your Grand Hotel room reservation please call Grand Hotel at 800-334-7263. Cancellation is subject to $50 hotel processing fee.
If you would like to TRANSFER your room reservation to the 2021 MPC, you do not need to call. The Grand Hotel will automatically transfer your reservation to the 2021 MPC. The Hotel will contact you in the coming weeks to confirm. 2021 Conference room rates will be confirmed by November.
For downtown hotel properties, if you would like to CANCEL or TRANSFER your hotel reservations to the 2021 MPC, please contact the individual property to complete your transaction. Cancellation is subject to the hotel’s policy.
If you need assistance, please contact:
Mackinac Island Convention and Visitors Bureau
Email: info@mackinacisland.org
Telephone: (800) 454-5227
Local: (906) 847-3783