This year, VMX 2018, formerly the NAVC Conference, is bigger and better than ever. As always, it will feature top-tier continuing education opportunities from world-renowned presenters, but VMX 2018 is much more than that. From unparalleled professional development and networking opportunities to exciting entertainment events, there is so much more to discover. Take full advantage of your VMX experience by hitting all of these exciting events.
General Session
This year’s General Session welcomes award-winning actor, author and Parkinson’s Disease advocate, Michael J. Fox. With his characteristic wit and charm, come listen to him share his life experiences in “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future” as he makes the case that real learning and growth actually happens when life goes skidding sideways. The General Session will take place on Saturday, February 3, at 10:30 am at the Hilton Orlando and is open to all attendees.
Opening Ceremony
Kicking off Day 1 is renowned Conservationist and Environmental Journalist, Jeff Corwin, leading the Opening Ceremony presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The host of “Ocean Mysteries” will share his one-of-a-kind perspective on wildlife conservation and empower VMX attendees to join the movement to save the natural world for future generations. The event will take place Saturday, February 3, at 7:00 pm at the Hilton Orlando.
Learning Theater and Campus Theater
While you are visiting booths inside the VMX Expo Hall, be sure to catch some of our CE offerings, brought to you by our Industry Partners, available in both our Learning Theater and Campus Theater settings. These CE sessions will be available for attendees during Expo Hall hours, starting Sunday, February 4 through Wednesday, February 7.
The Learning Theater will be located inside NAVC Central inside the Expo Hall. CE sessions last about 45 minutes, featuring current topics that impact veterinary practices and veterinary professionals.
The Campus Theater will be located in the Education Square inside the Expo Hall. The content for these CE sessions will be similar to content presented in a traditional symposia session, but will be delivered in a more relaxed setting and generally last about 105 minutes.
Be sure to check out the daily VMX newspaper, INSIDE VMX, to review the schedule and session details for the Learning Theater and Campus Theater, including topics, speakers and fun giveaways provided by our sponsors!
Hands-on Laboratories and Rounds
Perfecting today’s specialized procedures takes practice, and you’ll get plenty of that at VMX 2018. Choose from over 30 Hands-on Laboratories led by seasoned instructors and all the tools, supplies and space needed to practice.
In addition, VMX 2018 provides the opportunity to explore challenging, real cases with Rounds. In these 2-hour sessions, join top practitioners as they share how they managed their most unusual or challenging cases.
Register in advance for these unique opportunities, or upon your arrival at VMX 2018, head to Registration at the Orange County Convention Center or the Registration Center at the Hilton Orlando, to sign up for any remaining available spots.
Run with Your Pet
Get ready to run at the 5k Fun(d) Run/Walk on February 4 at 7:00 am. Bring your pet or run with an adoptable shelter dog! Join the NAVC, IDEXX, the WSAVA Foundation, Pet Rescue by Judy and the K9 Kit Club at Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake for this event for a great cause. The cost is $35 per person, pets run free.
Sunday “Big Game” Event
Calling all sports fans! Join us Sunday, February 4, at 5:30 pm at the Hilton Orlando for a viewing party of Super Bowl LII and watch the two final teams face off for the championship.
VMX Concert Series Presents: Rob Thomas
Join us for electrifying VMX concert entertainment with one of modern music’s most compelling artists, Matchbox Twenty’s, Rob Thomas. Aside from his award-winning music career, Thomas is also an avid animal lover, pet owner and supporter of animal charities. Thomas will take the stage on Monday, February 5, at 8:00 pm at the Hilton Orlando.