Western Conservative Summit 2023

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Western Conservative Summit
June 9-10, 2023

Join us for the 14th Annual Western Conservative Summit!

The Western Conservative Summit is one of the largest annual gatherings of conservatives outside of Washington, D.C. We aim to educate Americans on the key issues facing the West and our nation, equipping individuals to stand for faith, family, and freedom and training up the next generation of conservatives.

Our theme, Western Strong, strives to demonstrate the importance of the great Western tradition – from the foundational principles of Western civilization to the rugged individualism that characterizes the American West. At a time when Western Civilization is being denigrated by the left, we want to remind attendees that it is our strong Western roots that make America the free nation that it is today.

Registration questions? Contact our registration team: WCSinfo@yesevents.com or 1-866-455-8500

Western Conservative Summit 2023
June 9-10, 2023

Colorado Convention Center
700 14th Street
Denver, CO 80202

Speakers

We are regularly confirming new speakers. Keep an eye on our website and social media for all speaker announcements!

Schedule

The Western  Conservative Summit will feature live speakers and workshops, as well as the 2023 William L. Armstrong Award winner and the Under-30 Speech Contest winner.

Throughout the event, the Exhibit Hall will feature exhibitors, workshops, book signings, photo ops, and food/beverage concessions available for purchase.

*Schedule is subject to change.

Friday, June 9

8:00 AM  10:00 AM

Morning Main Session #1 

Dr. Donald Sweeting
Javier Joven, Texas Delegate
Matt Lumley, Montana Delegate
Dr. Jeff Myers
Luige del Puerto
Bob Carlstrom
Dr. Yoram Hazony
Pro-Life Panel

10:30 AM  12:00 PM

Morning Main Session #2 

Janae Stracke
Mike Donnelly
CJ Pearson
Cheryl Chumley
Gov. Asa Hutchinson
Mark David Hall
Dudley Brown
Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

1:30 PM  2:45 PM

Workshops #1

3:15 PM  4:30 PM

Workshops #2

5:00 PM  6:15 PM

 VIP Reception

7:00 PM   10:00 PM

Evening Session 

Military Appreciation
Jennifer Fielder and Ken Ivory
Greg Stier
Senator Josh Hawley
Glenn Story and Leigh Wambsganss
Coffey Anderson
Isabel Brown
Emily Kastens, Under 30 Speech Contest Winner
Congresswoman Lauren Boebert
Eric Metaxas

Saturday, June 10

8:00 AM  10:00 AM

Morning Main Session #1

Christian Finnigan
David Brog, Nevada Delegate
Jenna Ellis
Cristen Wohlgemuth
Frank Gaffney
Congressman Doug Lamborn
Sophia Lorey, California Delegate
Kara McKinney
Jason Snead
Larry Elder

10:30 AM  12:00 PM

Morning Main Session #2

Jason Isaac
Congressional Panel
Megan Degenfelder, Wyoming Delegate
Glenn Clary
Erick Erickson
Tina Descovich
Amanda Spiers
Riley Gaines

1:30 PM  2:45 PM

Workshops #1

3:15 PM  4:30 PM

Workshops #2

5:00 PM  6:30 PM

Ticketed Dinner: Looking to the Future with Colorado Christian University Leadership

7:00 PM   10:00 PM

Evening Session

Nathan Winters
Faith, Family, and Freedom Award Presentation
Kristen Waggoner, Armstrong Award Winner
Greg Scott
Eric Hogue
AWR Hawkins
Tulsi Gabbard
Seth Dillon

Countdown to the Summit

Useful Information

Colorado Convention Center

700 14th Street
Denver, CO 80202

The Western Conservative Summit will be returning to the Colorado Convention Center. Centrally located in downtown Denver, it is walking distance from a variety of shopping/dining options and entertainment venues. We encourage attendees to stay at the Hyatt Regency Denver, just steps away from the Colorado Convention Center.

During the Summit, multiple food and beverage concessions will be available for purchase during meal times in the Exhibit Hall.

The Colorado Convention Center has self-parking on site. Rates are as follows:

    • Up to 8 hours: $12.00, Up to 12 hours: $15.00, up to 18 hours: $17.00 and up to 24 hours: $25.00.
    • There are a number of public pay lots throughout downtown.
    • Visit the CCC parking page to learn how to pay for parking and special rates for electric/hybrid cars.
    • Visit Getting to the Center for more information about alternative modes of transportation.

Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center

650 15th Street

Denver, CO 80202

 

Special Room Rate: $239 per night, plus taxes & fees

Western Conservative Summit 2023 will be held near the Hyatt Regency in downtown Denver. The Hyatt Regency Denver boasts some of the most spectacular views of the Denver skyline and is close to many downtown Denver attractions. Reservations include complimentary fitness center access and basic wireless internet in all guest rooms.

Book through the link below or call to receive the discounted rate.

Rate is subject to availability and is only available until Monday, May 15, at 12:00 PM MST.

For reservations over the phone, please call +1 800-233-1234 and mention “Centennial Institute – Western Conservative Summit 2023.”

Exhibiting at the Western Conservative Summit is a great opportunity to get your information to conservative grassroots activists. You can also view the exhibitor handbook here

If you are interested in exhibiting, please fill out this application. If you have questions, contact Dawn Grubb at Dawn@Legacyevents.com.

Exhibitor offerings:

Single Booth: $800

  • 1 – 8’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

Double Booth: $1,300

  • 1 – 8’ X 20’ pipe and drape spaces
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

 

Prime Location- Single Booth: $1,100 (contact Dawn Grubb directly – dawn@legacyevents.com)

  • 1 – 8’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4 – Summit Passes

Prime Location – Double Booth: $1,900 (contact Dawn Grubb directly – dawn@legacyevents.com)

  • 1 – 8’ x 20’ pipe and drape space
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4- Summit Passes

 

Special considerations: Discounted rates will be provided to small non-profits (under $1M in revenue) and political campaigns. Contact Dawn Grubb (dawn@legacyevents.com).

Official workshop titles and locations will be announced closer to the event.

*Schedule subject to change.

Friday, June 9, 2023

1:30 – 2:45 pm  Workshop #1

3:15 – 4:30 pm  Workshop #2

Saturday, June 10, 2023

1:30 – 2:45 pm  Workshop #1

3:15 – 4:30 pm  Workshop #2

The William L. Armstrong Award is presented in honor of former businessman, United States Senator and Colorado Christian University President William L. Armstrong. The award is given to a leader who embodies the values that Armstrong held dear – faith, family, and freedom – and who has made a difference in America’s culture through business, politics, or education. Past recipients of the award, given annually since 2016, include conservative talk show host Dennis Prager; Focus on the Family and “Family Talk” founder Dr. James Dobson; former Attorney General and Counselor to President Ronald Reagan Edward Meese III; legal scholar and professor Robert George; Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby and chairman of the Museum of the Bible; Kay Coles James, founder and chairwoman of The Gloucester Institute and former president of The Heritage Foundation; and Cal Thomas, nationally syndicated columnist. To learn more about this honor, please visit The Armstrong Project.

Sponsoring the Western Conservative Summit is a great way to get your message out to grassroots conservatives across the nation.

To learn more about sponsorships, contact centennial@ccu.edu.

Exhibiting at the Western Conservative Summit is a great opportunity to get your information to conservative grassroots activists. You can also view the exhibitor handbook here

If you are interested in exhibiting, please fill out this application. If you have questions, contact Dawn Grubb at Dawn@Legacyevents.com.

Exhibitor offerings:

Single Booth: $800

  • 1 – 8’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

Double Booth: $1,300

  • 1 – 8’ X 20’ pipe and drape spaces
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

 

Prime Location- Single Booth: $1,100 (contact Dawn Grubb directly – dawn@legacyevents.com)

  • 1 – 8’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4 – Summit Passes

Prime Location – Double Booth: $1,900 (contact Dawn Grubb directly – dawn@legacyevents.com)

  • 1 – 8’ x 20’ pipe and drape space
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4- Summit Passes

 

Special considerations: Discounted rates will be provided to small non-profits (under $1M in revenue) and political campaigns. Contact Dawn Grubb (dawn@legacyevents.com).

Exhibiting at the Western Conservative Summit is a great opportunity to get your information to conservative grassroots activists.

You can download the Exhibitor Handbook here. If you have additional questions, contact Centennial Institute at centennial@ccu.edu.

Single Booth: $800

  • 1 – 10’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

Double Booth: $1,300

  • 1 – 10’ X 20’ pipe and drape spaces
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 2 – Summit Passes

Prime Location- Single Booth: $1,100 (contact Centennial Institute – centennial@ccu.edu)

  • 1 – 10’ X 10’ pipe and drape space
  • 1 – 6’ skirted table
  • 2 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4 – Summit Passes

Prime Location – Double Booth: $1,900 (contact Centennial Institute – centennial@ccu.edu)

  • 1 – 10’ x 20’ pipe and drape space
  • 2 – 6’ skirted tables
  • 4 – chairs
  • 1 – waste basket
  • 2 – exhibitor credentials
  • 4- Summit Passes

Special considerations: Discounted rates will be provided to small non-profits (under $1M in revenue) and political campaigns. Contact Centennial Institute (centennial@ccu.edu).

Working media can receive complementary Summit Passes, pending approval. Credentialed media are allowed to attend all main stage events (no meals are provided).

Press on assignment to cover the Western Conservative Summit must request event credentials by emailing press@jdaworldwide.com.

Delegates to the Western Conservative Summit will be selected to represent their state and the policy issues facing their constituents to the broader conservative community. Delegations will have the opportunity to network with our attendees and various national conservative organizations.

Delegates will be expected to attend all official WCS events, including workshops, plenary sessions, receptions, and dinners. The Western Conservative Summit will cover the cost of your attendance at the Summit, as well as the VIP Reception (Friday night) and Saturday Dinner tickets. You will be responsible for travel to and from the event, plus accommodations. The Western Conservative Summit has a special rate for WCS attendees at the Hyatt Regency Denver.

To learn more, please download our information packet here.

THIS IS YOUR MOMENT!

As part of the 2023 Western Conservative Summit, we are reserving ten minutes for the winner of our national Under 30 Speech Contest. This is YOUR moment to become a conservative star – reaching thousands across the country.

Submit your ten-minute speech via YouTube. The winning speech will be determined by the Western Conservative Summit organizers and Turning Point USA.

The theme for the 2023 Western Conservative Summit is Western Strong. Speakers are encouraged to consider the theme in their speech topic.

Video submissions must be received by 11:59pm on April 30, 2023.

You’re invited to the Western Conservative Summit Youth Conference! The Western Conservative Summit Youth Conference will offer students ages 16-22 the unique opportunity to be exposed to the nation’s most-pressing issues and learn how to impact the culture in support of Faith, Family, and Freedom. Spend three days doing an in-depth study into conservative thought, Christian worldview, statesmanship, and the legislative process before putting that knowledge into action at the Western Conservative Summit,  one of the largest annual gatherings of conservatives in the West.

To learn more and apply, click here!

 

Ticket Prices – Western Conservative Summit 2023

Registration questions? Contact our registration team: WCSinfo@yesevents.com or 1‑866‑455‑8500
VIP Pass - $550

The VIP Summit Pass offers an up-close and personal view of the event, including a VIP reserved section in the main ballroom, access to the VIP lounge & amenities and VIP photo ops with main stage speakers, as well as an invitation to the VIP Reception on Friday and a Dinner Ticket on Saturday (does not include award ceremony – meal only).

Summit Pass - $240

Includes two-day access to the main stage, exhibit hall, workshops, book signings, and more! Meals on your own; option to add Saturday Dinner for an additional fee.

Group Summit Pass (price per person) - $215

Summit Pass includes two-day access to the main stage, exhibit hall, workshops, book signings, and more! Meals on your own; option to add the Saturday Dinner for an additional fee. 10% Discount for a minimum group of ten with reserved seating.

Patriot Pass - $165

Discounted pass offered to those under 30, Veterans, Active Military, Educators, and Clergy. Meals on your own; option to add Saturday Dinner for an additional fee.

College Student
Pass - $19

Discounted pass for current college students registering with a valid student email. Meals on your own; option to add Saturday dinner for additional fee.

Email centennial@ccu.edu for registration link.

Single Day Pass (Friday OR Saturday) - $140

Includes one-day access to the main stage, exhibit hall, workshops, book signings, and more. Choose Friday or Saturday to enjoy the Summit. Meals on your own; option to add Saturday Dinner for an additional fee.

Session Pass - $65

Attend one main stage session of your choice: Friday morning, Friday afternoon, Friday evening, Saturday morning, Saturday afternoon, OR Saturday evening. Pass is specific to the chosen time slot only and does provide access to the exhibit hall. Workshops are NOT included. Meals on your own; option to add Saturday Dinner for an additional fee.

William L. Armstrong Award Dinner - $150

Our annual Saturday night dinner gala celebrates the conservative leadership of William L. (Bill) Armstrong. Purchase includes a formal plated dinner, awards presentation, entertainment, and speakers.

FAQ

Food and Attire

What meals and food are included?

Summit attendees will find or bring their own meals during program breaks at lunch and dinner times. Multiple food and beverage concessions will be available for purchase during meal times in the Exhibit Hall. This will be a great opportunity to grab a bite and interact with our exhibitors.

During the registration process, Saturday Dinner tickets are available for purchase. This will include food stations and light entertainment. You must be a pass holder in order to purchase a Saturday Dinner ticket.

VIP Pass holders have some food and beverage provided, including access to the VIP Lounge (light snacks and beverages) and the VIP reception (Friday).

 What is the Dress Code?

In general, our Summit attendees choose Western or business casual attire. As with any event held in a ballroom, a light sweater or jacket is recommended for temperature fluctuations. Comfortable shoes are recommended for enjoying the exhibit area and for walking throughout the Colorado Convention Center.

Transportation

What about parking?

The Colorado Convention Center has self-parking on site. Rates are as follows:

  • Up to 8 hours: $12.00, Up to 12 hours: $15.00, up to 18 hours: $17.00 and up to 24 hours: $25.00.
  • There are a number of public pay lots throughout downtown.
  • Visit the CCC parking page to learn how to pay for parking and special rates for electric/hybrid cars.

 

Is parking included for hotel guests?

Hotel guests will pay the same flat daily rate as visitors to the hotel, and it will be added to your hotel bill.

Can I get there using public transportation?

There are 2 light rail (RTD) stops within a block of the Colorado Convention Center. For schedules and maps, visit RTD-Denver.com

Visit Getting to the Center for more information about modes of transportation.

Need airport transportation?
There is no shuttle provided by the Hyatt Regency. We suggest Super Shuttle, taxi, Uber/Lyft, or private car.

Hotel

Hyatt Regency Colorado Convention Center

The Western Conservative has partnered with the Hyatt Regency at Colorado Convention Center to receive a discounted guest room rate. For more information, visit the Hotel tab on the website. We encourage you to book your room through the Hyatt Regency to take advantage of this opportunity.

Accessibility​

Colorado Convention Center meets ADA standards for accessibility in its rooms and public areas. Event team members will be available to assist. Additional information about accessibility at the Convention Center is available here.

Trams are available between the front door of the Colorado Convention Center and the conference area, in case assistance is necessary.

Registration & Refunds

Are there refunds if I’m unable to attend?

Refunds with a cancellation fee are available, based on the date of the request. Contact our registration team to cancel or for further information: 866-455-8500 or wcsinfo@yesevents.com.

Registration & Purchases

Through Monday, April 24 – full refund, less a 25% cancellation fee

April 25 – May 15 – full refund, less a 50% cancellation fee

After May 15, 11:59 PM MST – no refunds

Is my pass transferable to another person?

You may substitute or transfer your registration to another person at any time by calling 866-455-8500 or emailing wcsinfo@yesevents.com.

NOTE: All attendees, regardless of age, are REQUIRED to purchase a pass to attend the Summit. This is a security measure and must be followed.

I haven’t received an email from someone I have emailed. What should I do?

Please be sure to check your “junk” folder, as spam filters can sometimes catch emails. After verifying that you did not receive an email response to your inquiry, you may follow up via the same email, email centennial@ccu.edu, or call 303-963-3157.

Summit Merchandise

Are there books/videos/products for sale at the Summit?

Our bookstore in the Expo Hall will offer a number of book options throughout the Summit, particularly books authored by our speakers. When possible, speakers will be scheduled for book signings in the Expo Hall throughout the event.

Exhibitors will also bring a variety of interesting, informative or just-for-fun offerings including attire, jewelry, accessories and stickers. Speakers’ books, CD’s and DVD’s will be available.

Our Program

How will I know who is speaking when? Who are your confirmed speakers?

The schedule will be published closer to the event. With that said, expect that our schedule could change at the discretion of the planning team. We maintain a somewhat flexible agenda in order to accommodate last minute availability of high-profile speakers. Although unconventional (and a bit nerve-wracking), the benefits of our flexibility more than outweigh the mild uncertainty as we discover what wonderful surprises develop.

Are there workshops or small group discussions?

Yes, we offer a variety of workshops during both the mornings and afternoons of the Summit. These workshops allow for more interaction and discussion with each other and with the presenters. Networking during the event is highly encouraged!

Youth

Can children attend the Summit?

We do NOT suggest bringing young children, as our sessions are too long for their attention span and create a distraction by their presence.

Teens, however, will find the program engaging and we welcome them to register at the highly discounted Patriot Pass rate. Every teen is required to attend with a parent or guardian over the age of 18 who is also a pass holder. All minors should be accompanied by the parent or guardian throughout the entirety of the event.

What opportunities are available for teens and young adults?

Young people age 16 – 20 should consider registering for the Western Conservative Summit Youth Conference, which includes two days of patriot-filled education for young Christian conservative leaders, paired with two days of attendance at the Western Conservative Summit.

For students and young adults under the age of 30, the Under 30 Speech Contest provides 10 minutes of fame for the contest winner. Videos are submitted in advance for viewers to vote on their favorite message, based on this year’s theme.

All attendees, regardless of age, are REQUIRED to purchase a pass to attend the Summit. This is a security measure and must be followed.

Security

Anyone entering the Convention Center for an event is subject to a reasonable search including, but not limited to, metal detection and/or a bag search. Security reserves the right to inspect personal belongings of suspicious nature. This includes bags/backpacks, purses, coats, and hats.

In the event that prohibited items (see list below) are revealed during a search, the guest will be permitted to return to their vehicle with the item or the item will be confiscated. Colorado Convention Center Management reserves final decision on items allowed into the Bellco Theatre.

Smoking is only permitted in the designated area outside of Door # 8. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the Bellco Theatre.

Unauthorized vending is prohibited on Colorado Convention Center property.

Please reference below the prohibited items when attending an event at the Bellco Theatre:

  • All outside food or beverages including alcoholic beverages
  • Illegal drugs
  • Laser pointers (devices will be confiscated and patron is subject to ejection)
  • All recording devices (audio, video & cameras as stipulated by the event. Recording media is subject to confiscation)
  • Weapons or any items construed as weapons ( firearms, knives, sticks, chemical spray devices etc.)
  • Air horns, bullhorns or other distracting noisemakers
  • Animals (service animals are the only exceptions)
  • Personal property that is potentially hazardous to other patrons (wallet chains, jewelry with spikes, etc)
  • For your safety and the safety of others, all guests and their possessions are subject to inspection as a condition of admittance.

Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University works to enhance public understanding of the most important issues relating to faith, family, and freedom. As part of this endeavor, the Institute focuses its efforts on conducting research, analyzing public policy options and sponsoring seminars, conferences, and other activities that involve students, faculty, staff and outside experts. Each summer, it is the host of the nation’s largest annual conservative gathering west of the Mississippi, the Western Conservative Summit.

The Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization that does not endorse or oppose any candidate or political party for public office. CCU’s tax ID number is 84-0442429.

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