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In preparation of the 2017 Rotary International Convention, Rotary received a record number of paid pre-registrations during the 2016 convention. With nearly a year before the convention begins, more than 21,000 attendees have already registered, far exceeding previous convention totals for the initial May-June registration period. The 2017 Rotary International Convention will be held in Atlanta, coinciding with the centennial of the Rotary Foundation, which was established during the 1917 convention in Atlanta.
The convention pre-registration announcement comes on the heels of significant strides made against the eradication of polio, Rotary's flagship cause. With just two polio-endemic countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, there is an opportunity this year to see the last case of polio, giving convention attendees an additional reason to celebrate.
"Rotary's International Convention is a time for Rotary members of all backgrounds and walks of life to come together in celebration of their friendship and mutual dedication to service," said Rotary International President John Germ. "I'm so pleased that once again the great city of Atlanta will be our 2017 host city. With more than 21,000 registrants so far, and thousands more expected attendees, I'm certain the 2017 convention will be one of the largest in Rotary history. I look forward to working with the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau and Rotary's Host Organizing Committee over the coming months to create an unforgettable experience for all those involved."
Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) and Georgia Department of Economic Development representatives attended the 2016 Rotary International Convention in Korea to pre-promote Atlanta. Both organizations provided pre-and post-trip planning for attendees who registered while on site in Korea. Attendees were further incentivized by a discounted pre-registration rate offered in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of the Rotary Foundation.
"We are excited to welcome Rotary International back to Atlanta for the Foundation's centennial celebration," said William Pate, president and CEO, ACVB. "Atlanta has a long history with Rotary International and it is a special opportunity to welcome Rotary members from around the world to our city."
The 2017 Rotary International Convention will be held June 10-14 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The last time Rotary held its international convention in Atlanta was in 1970.
About ACVB
Established in 1913, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official destination marketing organization for the city and serves to favorably impact Atlanta's economy through conventions and tourism. A private, not-for-profit organization, ACVB bolsters Atlanta's $15 billion hospitality industry, which generated nearly 51 million visitors in 2015. Visit atlanta.net for more information.
CONTACT: Audrey Carl, 217-840-0443 or audrey.carl@rotary.org
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