Best Virtual Conference

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL

LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

Computer Image Courtesy of University of Massachusetts Lowell

Lowell, Massachusetts – The 2020 pandemic impacted many industries, especially the hospitality and events industry . Although we are proud of all of our client venues for their versatility and flexibility when in-person gatherings went virtual, the University of Massachusetts Lowell was voted Best Virtual Conference. Voters recognized their exceptional team, advanced technology, and continued adaptability in shifting events to a virtual platform for the safety of guests and attendees .

At the beginning of the pandemic, UMass Lowell Hospitality & Event Services made an immediate shift to remote event support . Always thinking one step ahead, the team purchased use of the Hopin platform, anticipating the need for digital event spaces that pushed the limits of what other platforms could do . The team quickly went to work, meeting with the developers, spending extra hours honing skills, developing synergy in the virtual space, and creating standards and practices for a brand new type of event. What emerged only a few weeks later was a team of eight individuals across two departments who became a self-sufficient, full-scale virtual conference management team. Talk about making the best of every opportunity!

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 7,800 On-Site Spaces 15 Maximum Overnight N/A

In 2020, UMass Lowell helped bring the Virtual UVAMC Conference to other event professionals seeking clarity in a time of uncertainty, setting a standard for what running virtual event operations could look like . With the shift to meeting virtually, the UVAMC Conference was able to reach more people than previous years . This helped set the stage for fully virtual or hybrid events during the next year and into the future .

This new platform not only helped the Unique Venues team host their conference, but it also aided the university as they transitioned into a new hybrid school year.

The team gave UMass Lowell students the chance to learn about campus organizations at multiple Engagement Fairs throughout the year . A cappella groups held concerts, departments showcased research, and external partners were able to virtually network. UMass Lowell's use of the Hopin platform set the stage early for other organizations and universities across the country to adopt the platform and understand what it meant to support a virtual conference or event .

UMass Lowell successfully found a way in a physically distanced time during the pandemic to prioritize personal relationships through the multi-layer support of its virtual events .

The team at UMass Lowell is excited to help you find a happy medium among fully virtual, hybrid, and fully in-person events . Filled with history and culture, University of Massachusetts Lowell is a gorgeous campus to have your next in-person or hybrid event. The Hospitality and Event Services team is ready to work with you and your budget to make your next meeting, conference, or party a success!

The university has an event capacity of 7,800 guests spread over 13 different facilities. If you are searching for gathering space that can accommodate your group of 25 or 1,000, the Tsongas Center is the perfect space for you. The Tsongas Center offers four unique event spaces – the Talon Club, the Center Club Room, the Lowell Bank Pavilion and the arena’s floor. These spaces can be arranged to fit the needs of your next event. You can even rent one of these facilities to use during the next UMass Lowell basketball game! One of the most scenic spots on campus to host an event is the Bellegarde Boathouse . Located on the banks of the Merrimack, the deck facility at UMass Lowell’s Bellegarde Boathouse provides some of the region’s most spectacular waterfront views . What a stunning backdrop for your next meeting, wedding reception, or corporate party! The choices for food and beverage are endless at UMass Lowell . Guests can enjoy world-class options at one of the university’s dining halls . If you need a catered meal, the catering team will be happy to work with your budget to create a delicious meal everyone will enjoy. After a day of meetings and presentations, make sure to stop by 50 Warren Lounge to sample some of their classic cuisine. Unwind with a cocktail in their fireside lounge, or dine in the canal-facing restaurant!

Located in historic Lowell, MA, UMass Lowell is in close proximity to Manchester and Boston . After your event, guests will have endless options of places to visit, eat, or drink . UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center is within walking distance to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Lowell National Historic Park, Boarding House Park, and a wealth of historical attractions . If guests are feeling up for a drive, suggest that they take a trip to one of the other nearby towns or even states . Many great attractions are just a short drive away from UMass Lowell!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL ON WINNING THE UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VIRTUAL CONFERENCE AWARD!

RUNNER UP

UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA - VANCOUVER

Vancouver, British Columbia

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity

2,200

On-Site Spaces

200

Max Overnight 5,000