The conference welcomes individuals of all gender identities and is designed for a wide audience, including students, faculty, staff, professionals, and community members interested in AI, data science, and related fields.

Reserved (but not prepaid) parking is available for WiADS attendees at the following locations:

• University Ave Ramp

• Washington Ave Ramp

• Maroon Lot (Stadium)

If a lot is marked "by reservation only," inform the attendant you are here for the "WiADS Conference" to access our reserved spaces. Take a ticket and pay upon exit. If no attendant is present, just enter and take a ticket. 

If one lot is full, try the next one on the list. If all options are full, check the McNamara Alumni Center's website to view parking suggestions.

The McNamara Alumni Center is also accessible via public transit and is located near the light rail and many bus lines.

Most sessions will be recorded and published after the conference concludes. However, certain presentations, such as the keynote, will be broadcast live only. To ensure full access to all programming, we recommend attending in person or watching live online.

All attendees must register before the event. Registration for All Access Passes (providing in-person and virtual access) are limited and subject to availability, with registration closing on October 18th at 12:00 AM or when capacity is reached, whichever comes first. 

We are committed to creating a comfortable and inclusive experience for all attendees. Please email us at AI-events@umn.edu with your request. Two weeks notice (October 11) will help us to better fulfill requests.

• Most sessions will be recorded and shared with attendees after the event—perfect for catching up on anything you missed

• By default, we enable auto-captioning for virtual attendees. For in person attendees requiring closed captioning or hearing assistance, you can connect to each room’s Zoom webinar via laptop (just bring your computer and don’t forget your headphones!)

• “No photography” zones will be clearly marked in each room

• Optional “no photo” stickers available at check-in for those who prefer not to be photographed

• To facilitate engagement, we’ve implemented Q&A tools in every breakout room, with in-person microphone options to ensure virtual participants can hear all discussions. 

Registration for All Access Passes (providing in-person and virtual access) are limited, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If they are still available, you can cancel your Virtual Pass and register for an All Access Pass. 

We’ve worked closely with our caterers to provide meals that accommodate a range of dietary preferences and sensitivities. Here’s what you need to know:

• We’ve got you covered throughout the day with morning refreshments, boxed lunch, and all-day coffee, tea, and water service

• Halal Requests: While the caterer’s meat is not halal-certified, vegetarian and fish-free vegan meals are available.

• Nut Allergies: Meals don’t contain nuts, but kitchens do process them—so we can’t guarantee against cross-contact.

• Ingredient Sensitivities: Avoiding specific items? Check ingredient labels at meal stations.

After the conference, join us for a celebratory evening at Sally's Saloon, located just across the street from our venue. 

• All-access pass holders will receive a complimentary drink ticket—just show your WiADS name badge at check-in. 

• Virtual attendees are warmly invited to join us in person, though drink tickets are reserved for all-access registrants. 

• Email any questions or concerns to AI-events@umn.edu.