RISE

Respectful Inclusive Scientific Events (RISE) & Events Code of Conduct

GSA is committed to providing a professional environment at all of our events, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and wide-ranging points of view. Attending GSA events is a privilege, and we expect all attendees and participants to comply with the Events Code of Conduct and live up to GSA’s pledge to provide Respectful, Inclusive Scientific Events (RISE).

Do your part to promote a safe, respectful, professional meeting!

1. Read and comply with the Events Code of Conduct;

2. Remember that GSA will not tolerate:

  • Harassment, intimidation, bullying, or discrimination in any form, including: comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, or national origin; sexual images in public spaces or presentations; unwelcome physical contact;
  • Real or implied threats, stalking, intimidation, or physical or verbal abuse;
  • Behaviors that disrupting presentations at oral or poster sessions, in the exhibit hall, on field trips, or at other events organized by GSA at the meeting venue, hotels, or other GSA-contracted facilities;
  • Taking pictures or making audio or video recordings after a presenter or convener has communicated that such images are not allowed;
  • Drinking or using other intoxicants to excess or to the extent that your ability to act professionally is compromised.

Speak up if you experience or witness inappropriate or unprofessional behavior.

GSA will follow up on every report of improper conduct under the Events Code of Conduct. We reserve the right to remove offenders from our events without refund and to take other disciplinary steps we find necessary and appropriate.

If you are the target of or witness improper conduct, please let us know immediately by:

  • Making a report to the GSA Events Code Hotline by emailing ethics@geosociety.org or calling +1-720-507-7523;
  • Notifying anyone at our events who is wearing a RISE button;
  • Notifying any GSA leader with whom you feel comfortable, including but not limited to GSA’s Executive Director, President, Councilor, Division or Section leader, or field trip leader.
GSA RISE button

Inclusivity at the Meeting

We strive to provide an environment where “differing ideas, abilities, backgrounds, and needs are fostered with opportunities for members from divergent experiences to participate and contribute.” (Diversity Position Statement)

At our meeting we will continue to offer services such as CART (Communication Access Real-time Translation) services for all Pardee Keynote Sessions, Feed Your Brain lunchtime series, and the Presidential Address. 

All are welcome at the following events:

  • GSA Town Hall: Ethics and Compliance Program Update
    • Monday, 23 Sept., 12:15-1:15 p.m., PCC, Room 125AB North Building
  • Diversity in the Geosciences Committee Meeting
    • Monday, 23 Sept., 1-2:30 p.m., Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, Arcadia Boardroom
  • Diversity and On To the Future Alumni Reception
    • Tuesday, 24 Sept., 5:30-7 p.m., Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, Valley of the Sun E
  • LBGTQ Social
    • Tuesday, 24 Sept., 7-10 p.m., Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, Ahwatukee A

Accessibility and Accommodations

  • Pronoun Ribbons
    • Stop by the registration desk to pick up your ribbon while supplies last.
  • Gender Neutral Bathrooms
    • Located on each floor of the meeting.
  • Mother's Room*
    • PCC, Green Room, 1st Floor North Building
  • Self-Care Room*
    • PCC, Room 230 North Building
  • Self-Care Room
    • Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, Hospitality Suite 523
    • Sun.-Tues., 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
    • Please contact GSA representative at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown GSA Staff Office.

* To gain access to these rooms, stop by the Annual Meeting Office, Room 123 North Building, and request a key. You will be required to sign the key in/out and provide your mobile phone number.

Family Services and Childcare

Childcare is offered during the meeting and a Junior Geologist program for kids. Check back soon for more information.