We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, resort in Dana Point, California for CRN’s annual events!
Here is some information you may find helpful as you finalize your plans. (Click here for printable PDF.)
Contact our registration team (events@crnusa.org) if you have any pre-event questions.
Science in Session Agenda | Now New Next Agenda
EVENT APP
Stay updated on event announcements, connect with other attendees and access helpful resources during and after the events. Access the app here (all registrants should have received a welcome email with a username and password). Please contact Gretchen Powers with questions.
SUGGESTED ATTIRE
Attire for all sessions of Science in Session and Now New Next is business casual. For evening gatherings, the fun run & walk, golf tournament, yoga, and other activities, please see descriptions that follow.
ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, is the host hotel where Science in Session and Now New Next sessions and social functions will take place. The address is located at One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, California, 92629. You can reach the hotel by phone at 949-240-2000.
REGISTRATION DESK
The registration desk for Science in Session and Now New Next is in the Ritz-Carlton Ballroom Foyer. Please check in at CRN’s registration desk to receive your name badge.
Registration desk hours are:
- Tuesday, October 03: 7:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Wednesday, October 04: 7:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Thursday, October 05: 7:30 am – 1:00 pm
CONNECT WITH ATTENDEES
See who’s coming to the event by viewing the RSVP list here. Connect with fellow attendees using the app.
Networking Pavilion
Wednesday 10/04 | 1:30 – 4:30 pm
LOCATION: Pavilion
Use the space for any prescheduled meetings or stop in and see what connections you make spontaneously. The room is stocked with refreshments and is meeting-ready.
Sponsored by
EVENING FUNCTIONS
'GO FOR THE GOLD GLORY DAYS' WELCOME RECEPTION
Tuesday 10/03 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Dana Point Lawn
Kick off your “Now New Next” experience or relax after a day of “Science in Session.” You’ll be golden in a college sweatshirt or other apparel showing off your alma mater—encouraged attire for this casual CRN “homecoming.” Enjoy hearty apps and cold brews or other beverages as you reminisce with your industry colleagues about your glory days and CRN’s rich 50-year history.
Sponsored by
‘GOLDEN HOUR’ NETWORKING RECEPTION
Wednesday 10/04 | 5:30 – 7:00 pm
LOCATION: Terrace Salon
Get to know your fellow 50th anniversary event attendees a little better as you bask in the glow of golden hour in the Golden State with light bites, libations, and live music.
Sponsored by
‘GOLDFINGER GALA 50TH ANNIVERSARY’ CLOSING RECEPTION
Thursday 10/05 | 7:00 – 10:00 pm
LOCATION: Pavilion
A most luxurious night is in your sight with our James-Bond-themed Goldfinger Gala. Coupling the classic elegance of the famed and fashionable spy film franchise with CRN’s golden anniversary celebration, the evening will offer enthralling entertainment from casino games to karaoke. Dress up for this special soirée with dinner and drinks—including signature cocktails and a special toast commemorating 50 years of CRN
Sponsored by:
FREE GROUP ACTIVITIES
Sunrise Yoga
Wednesday 10/04 | 6:45 – 7:30 am
Dana Point Lawn
Rise, shine, breathe and stretch for a centering start to the first day of Now New Next with CRN's own Gretchen Powers, a certified yoga teacher!
Arrive at 6:30 am for check-in. Yoga mats, towels, water, and post-practice snacks will be provided. Please wear comfortable athletic layers and bare feet or yoga socks.
Sponsored by
Kyowa Hakko Fun Run & Walk
Thursday 10/05 | 6:30 – 7:30 am
Meet in lobby at 6:15 am to head to starting location
Sign up in advance when you register online or at the registration desk and get a free t-shirt. Meet in lobby at 6:15 am to head to the starting point in groups for the annual fun run/walk—a time-honored CRN conference tradition!
Sponsored by
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
If you wish to sign up for additional activities, please contact events@crnusa.org or use the QR code below. Space is limited.
See activity details for those who have registered below.
Golf Tournament at Monarch Beach Golf Links
Wednesday 10/04 | 1:00 – 5:15 pm
$199/person
Experience Monarch Beach Golf Links—one of only a handful of oceanfront golf courses in California—with views of surf breaks on every hole. The par-70 championship resort golf course offers an unending variety of play.
For attendees who plan to bring their own golf clubs, please leave them at the Ritz-Carlton bell desk ahead of session start on Wednesday morning. They will be transported to the course by hotel staff. If you have indicated at registration that you will require rented clubs from Monarch Beach Golf Links, they will be ready upon arrival at the course.
Sponsored by
Pickleball
Wednesday 10/04 | 2:30 – 4:30 pm
Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, Tennis/Pickleball Courts
$69/person
Pickleball players, take to the courts to show off your dill balls, dinks and drop shots. Please note that this activity does not include instructors and is meant for those who already know how to play. Wear comfortable athletic clothing and tennis shoes.
Sponsored by
Catamaran Cruise
Thursday 10/05 | 2:00 – 5:00 pm
$99/person
Spend the afternoon cruising the spectacular south Orange County coastline. The adventure offers the chance to see gray or blue whales, humpbacks, orcas and minke whales. Sharks and other exciting marine life may be seen as well. Please wear closed-toed shoes and bring a light jacket.
Meet at the lobby at 1:45 to board buses—depart by 2:00 pm.
Sponsored by
Ebike Excursion
Thursday 10/05 | 2:30 – 4:30 pm
$149/person
Discover Dana Point via electric bike! This guided Ebiking tour includes stops to take in the local history—and pictures! The route is about seven miles roundtrip. Water and helmets are provided. We recommend wearing closed-toed shoes and athletic wear with layers.
Meet at the Eco Adventure Center at 2:00. The tour will begin and end here.
Sponsored by
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN DANA POINT!
Contact our registration team (events@crnusa.org) if you have any pre-event questions.
THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS
