Mythbusting Educational Session Proposals for SSP 2025

Are you ready to challenge assumptions and spark new ideas in scholarly publishing? As we gear up for the 47th Annual Meeting, themed “Reimagining the Future of Scholarly Publishing at the Intersection of Value and Values,” we’re looking for diverse voices to help shape the conversation. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, your insights are valuable. With Educational Sessions, Industry Breakouts, Posters, and 5-minute Industry Previews, there are multiple contributing ways. Don’t let common myths hold you back—submit your proposal and share your unique perspective with the SSP community!

Myth: I need to have a perfect, fleshed-out proposal with all the panelists confirmed before I submit it.

• Fact: Nope, not factual. We want your ideas and especially new voices at our meeting! We have a fantastic program committee of 40+ individuals ready and waiting to help you identify speakers to turn your idea into a great session.

Myth: I’m not an expert in a topic so I can’t propose a session.

• Fact: Yes, you can! There is something that you know better than others. We want sessions that speak to varied levels of experience and knowledge.

Myth: I’m new to SSP or early in my career so I shouldn’t submit a proposal.

• Fact: Not at all! Some of the best sessions come from first-time attendees and those new to SSP. Plus, organizing a session is a great way to meet new people and get involved in SSP and our wider community. Your viewpoint could provide a fresh and new perspective. We love it when experienced, regular speakers consider mentoring less-experienced colleagues, supporting them as organizers and/or speakers to help increase panel diversity and build capacity in our community.

Myth: Organizing a good panel/session takes too much time.

• Fact: You’ll have help! If your proposal gets accepted, you’ll be assigned a “session shepherd” in January who will help you prepare your session and serve as your liaison to our committee full of other people who would love to be a resource.

Myth: I work in Humanities/Social Sciences or Book Publishing and usually don’t see any sessions that appeal to me, so I won’t submit a proposal.

• Fact: Nooooo! SSP needs you! We know the humanities and social sciences don’t get enough exposure at SSP, so bring it! We want to receive proposals representing the full breadth of experience and roles in our industry. What might seem like a specialized proposal to you could benefit others who feel less represented, as well as others who might be curious about a career move.

Industry partners are invited to put your organization on display at the SSP Annual Meeting by contacting partnerships@sspnet.org. This dynamic event will allow exhibitors and sponsors to present sessions, network with attendees, build brand awareness, and more!