Frequently Asked Questions
Who may attend MVLA series events and is there a charge?
Can I reserve seats ahead of time?
How long do most events last?
What kind of seating is available?
How can I get directions to the venues and information about parking?
Is it appropriate to bring children to events?
Are books available for purchase at the presentations?
Are audiotapes, videotapes, podcasts, or notes of the talks available?
How do you choose your speakers?
We strive to bring timely and relevant topics to our community from renowned experts at the best possible price. Our objective is to offer a diverse group of speakers; some years we are more successful than others.
Every year our committee starts pitching ideas/speakers at least 6-12 months before our new school year begins. We also ask for recommendations in surveys that parents receive from the Educational Foundations and we use our connections and previous speakers to see who might be working on a new book. Sometimes we have to resort to cold calling (or cold emailing) authors or their agents and try to connect with them through social media. Not infrequently, we never hear back.
It is all a fragile and delicate balance of timing, availability, relevance and finances. We appreciate any and all connections and recommendations that our community may have for us.