Networking Events
Expo Events
Check out our Partners Solutions Corner during open Expo Hours, located across from booth 111.
Monday
Welcome Reception in Expo
5:30 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday
Coffee Break in Expo
10:00am – 10:30am
2:45pm – 3:15pm
Lunch in Expo
11:45am – 1:45pm
All-Attendee Reception
5:30pm – 8:00pm
Wednesday
Coffee Break in Expo
10:15am – 10:45am
Lunch in Expo
11:45am – 1:45pm
Passport to Prizes Drawing
1:30pm – 1:45pm
Pickleball Sponsored by Lightedge
We’re bringing a full pickleball court right to the Expo floor! The court will be available throughout the conference – even outside of official Expo hours. Whether you’re a seasoned player or picking up a paddle for the first time, come rally with fellow attendees.
Networking Events
Sunday, April 26
COMMON Kick-Off
6:30 PM, The River-view Room
Join us Sunday evening for our kick-off. There will be food, drinks, and plenty of company to get your conference started off on the right foot. Grab your badge from registration and join us in the River-View Room!
Monday, April 27
COMMON Problem-Solving
2:15 PM, Mardi Gras Ballroom
Ready for problem-solving without the programming? Join us Monday for a laid-back, analog team challenge. Step away from the screens and work together to crack word puzzles and brain teasers. It’s a fun way to connect with the COMMON community while putting your teamwork skills to the test.
Tuesday, April 28
Reverse Student Job Fair
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Mardi Gras Ballroom
The Student Job Fair is designed to help employers efficiently discover and connect with emerging talent for internships and full-time roles. In this reverse job fair format, each student hosts a dedicated table, allowing you to move through the space, review resumes, and engage in targeted, one-on-one
conversations with candidates who align with your needs.
Wednesday, April 29
Pups and Cups
2:45 PM, Located by Registration
There’s no better way to recharge than with a few furry friends. We’re partnering with a local shelter to bring you our Pups & Cups event on Wednesday. Grab a coffee, take a break, and spend some time getting to know some adorable local pups.
It’s the perfect mix of caffeine and canine connection.
Fortra Trivia Night
6:00 PM, Mardi Gras Ballroom
Staying in for the free night on Wednesday? Join us for trivia! Gather a team and put your collective knowledge to the test as you compete for thetop spot.
And don’t worry – we promise it’s not a quiz on your session notes.
Also get yourself some ice cream from Brum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Stores
Thursday, April 30
Scavenger Hunt
1:45 PM, meet by Registration
Join the hunt on Thursday afternoon! Find clues and complete tasks all while exploring New Orleans. Create or join a team of 3-5 players and be the first to find all the clues and post your completed tasks! You might even have time for a victory lap.
Closing Reception
Meet in the Lobby by 6:00 PM
We’re wrapping up POWERUp 2026 with a celebration at Generations Hall! Enjoy a night of live music with Amanda Shaw, delicious food, drinks, karaoke, and a festive parade as we come together to celebrate our
community and and incredible week of learning and connection.
*Everyone should meet in the lobby by 6:00 PM to walk to the venue, you must have your badge