GSX to go fully virtual this September

ASIS International announced its Global Security Exchange conference for this year will become a “fully virtual experience” in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

GSX was originally scheduled for Sept. 21-23 in Atlanta, Ga. The event, now called GSX+, will be held Sept. 21-25 and exclusively online.

“Following months of careful evaluation of the risks associated with convening an event of 20,000 professionals from across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic, ASIS leadership concluded that transitioning GSX to a virtual-only environment for its 2020 event was the correct course of action, in the best interests of its members, attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and the public,” said ASIS International in a published statement.

“Launching GSX+ as a virtual-only experience will provide our members, exhibitors, sponsors and others with a one-of-a-kind approach that will advance security worldwide,” said Godfried Hendriks, CPP, president of the ASIS Global Board of Directors. “While circumstances dictate that we must forgo an in-person meeting this year, we are excited for GSX+ to deliver to a wider global audience the exceptional security networking, marketplace, education, and training that truly set GSX apart. There is a growing demand for a comprehensive experience that helps the entire security profession learn and grow together.”

The virtual event will include more than 80 education sessions, an exhibit marketplace and peer-to-peer networking.

“We are pleased to unveil our new GSX+ model, which will deliver the same number of CPEs as GSX, more accessibility with a lower cost to participate, and will live online for several weeks after an initial 5-day live event,” said Peter J. O’Neil, FASAE, CEO, ASIS International. “It’s never been more important for organizations to focus on risk management and business continuity. GSX+ offers a new way for professionals to come together, discover new technologies and approaches, and dive into important discussions around global best practices.”

A GSX FAQ provides more details about how the virtual conference will operate. It also indicates that the in-person GSX event will return in 2021 in Orlando, Sept. 27-29, with an online element for those unable to travel.