Conference Venue

Memorial Union

The conference opening reception, meals, and registration will be held at the Memorial Union. As one of the most beloved and historic destinations on campus, Memorial Union is the place to come socialize, relax, study, eat, and enjoy all the beautiful sunsets and lake views that Madison has to offer. Since opening its doors in 1928, it has offered a variety of social and educational activities for UW students, faculty, Wisconsin Union Members, and the Madison community. Among its many treasures, the building houses a 1,200 seat theater, Strada Italian Cuisine, Carte Soups & Salads, the Daily Scoop Ice Cream, Badger Market, Peet’s Coffee, Der Rathskeller German-Style Tavern, Wheelhouse Studios, Wisconsin Hoofers, various art exhibits, and plentiful study space. Situated on the shores of Lake Mendota, the classic architecture of the building boasts a picturesque lakeside view as well as a terrace with 600 colorful sunburst chairs – the perfect spot for an afternoon snack in the summer.

Memorial Union Terrace

One of the most cherished parts of the Memorial Union is the Terrace. The Terrace functions as a great place to enjoy a beautiful day, grab a beer with friends or colleagues, sunbathe or swim off the pier, and catch one of Madison’s stunning sunsets. When the Terrace was first envisioned in the fall of 1928, it was thought to serve as a fun meeting place, a sort of “undergraduate playground.” Today, its mission and purpose of being an enjoyable gathering spot for students, parents and alumni continues to improve. After the reopening in early 2016, the Terrace expanded seating, extended grilling, increased shoreline and lakefront views, and added additional food options. During the summer months, the Terrace hosts a “Terrace after Dark” music and film series which is free to the public. For more information on events held at the Terrace, check out the Event Calendar | Wisconsin Union.

Our Greener Meeting Initiatives Include:

• Providing compostable utensils, plates, cups, and serving platters
• Using biodegradable name badge holders and providing a recycling bin at conference headquarters
• Offering recycling bins at all meal locations and on every floor of the meeting venue
• Utilizing online mailings and digital communication to promote conference events
• Donating surplus food to a local food bank
• Using reusable conference signage to guide attendees throughout the event
• Providing online registration and electronic registration materials
• Sharing conference programs as PDF email attachments and through event apps
• Encouraging attendees to bring their own water bottles and use available refill stations

    Wireless Internet Access

    Wireless Internet access is available to all conference participants. Upon check-in, each participant will receive a login and password which will grant access to the meeting site secure wireless network. The network is available throughout the building, including the Union Theater and outside on the Lakefront Terrace.

    Conference Sailing

    Wisconsin Hoofers located at the Memorial Union offers as a variety of sailing and boating packages during your time at the conference, including rental of sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for use on Lake Mendota. Please visit the Hoofers website for more information.