FAQs
Every event, conference and program is unique but there are considerations worth taking into account when planning any UConn campus gathering. The following are of some UECS’s most frequently fielded questions and concerns:
When is the best time to hold an event at UConn?
Our campuses are busy, vibrant places during the academic year and quieter locales during academic breaks and in the summer months. There are a few major annual events such as commencement in May and convocation in August that you will want to avoid when choosing your dates. See the Calendar of Event Planning Dates for details.
Does UECS offer registration only services?
Yes, our team utilizes Cvent to build and maintain registration websites that can collect attendee details and payments. Payment types may include all major credit cards, checks, purchase orders, wire transfers, or internal (UConn) payments. Clients will receive an invite to a portal where they can review registration reports that update in real time. Additional add-ons include the printing of name badges or onsite staffing for check-in desks.
Can UECS manage a virtual or hybrid conference?
Yes, UECS has extensive experience running virtual programs in a variety of platforms. We have also planned and executed hybrid conferences with the assistance of webcasting companies. We will work with clients on technology selection and management, run of show, engagement tools, speaker management, etc. as requested.
What’s the best way for my guests to get to campus?
View campus driving directions. In addition, bus transportation is available from cities both in and around Connecticut as well as from Bradley International Airport (Windsor Locks, CT) and T.F. Green International Airport (Providence, R.I.).
Where should my guests park?
Typically, visitors to campus park in either North Garage (2152 Hillside Road) or South Garage (505 Jim Calhoun Way). Payment for parking in the North and South Garages is via online app (paybyphone or flowbird) or kiosk. Payment must be made upon entry for the expected duration of the visit. Additional time can be added via the app or another session can be purchased at a kiosk. Parking enforcement in the garages is via license plate recognition in real time. Therefore payment upon arrival is crucial to avoiding a parking citation.
Review general parking information for visitors for more information or visit Parking Services to learn more.
Is there a fee for UECS services?
UECS is a fee-for-service entity, our fees are dependent on the particular services we provide and are competitive within the industry. There are select UConn entities and initiatives that qualify for fee waivers up to 100% of total cost; we can inform you if your program qualifies. We don't ballpark; no two events are identical. Begin by filling out our Inquiry Form and we will be happy to provide you with a proposal.
I have some general questions about event planning at UConn: what’s the best way to get in touch?
The best way is to fill out our Inquiry Form, no matter what stage of the planning process you are in. If you have a particular question, you can also email us at conferences@uconn.edu and someone will respond within 48 hours (Mon-Fri)—often sooner.
I’m a UConn student or a representative of a student organization: how do I go about planning an on-campus event?
UConn students and student organizations must start the event planning process (regardless of event location on campus) through Student Union Event Services.
What are some local attractions in the Storrs area?
In addition to the must-see sites on campus such as The William Benton Museum of Art, The Connecticut Museum of Natural History, The Biodiversity Research Collections, and The J. Robert Donnelly Husky Heritage Sports Museum, there are a variety of shopping, dining and recreation options around UConn’s main campus:
Within walking distance of UConn’s main campus is Downtown Storrs—Mansfield’s pedestrian-friendly mixed-use shopping and retail town center. It is also home to UConn’s Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry.
A local institution, the UConn Dairy Bar offers award-winning ice-cream made in their on-site creamery with viewing window.
Just a short drive from Storrs main campus, the Adventure Park at Storrs is an aerial adventure park with acres of rope courses and ziplines for guests of all levels of ability.
The surrounding community of Mansfield, Connecticut boasts many beautiful outdoor recreation areas ideal for hiking, kayaking, bird watching, fishing and more.
Family owned and operated for nearly half a century, the Mansfield Drive-In Theater and Flea Market is a local gem and is situated just a few miles from the Storrs campus.
Tucked away in the neighboring town of Coventry is Cassidy Hill Vineyard which offers a popular al fresco music series select evenings from spring through fall.
The largest farmers’ market in Connecticut is the nearby Coventry Farmers’ Market which operates from June through October. This is a can’t miss tradition for anyone visiting the area.
Every third Thursday of the month from May through September thousands gather and stroll along nearby Main Street, Willimantic to peruse a variety of crafters, vendors, food and drink options and partake in festivities for all ages.
Are there nearby overnight accommodations for my guests?
Are there nearby overnight accommodations for my guests?
Right in the heart of UConn’s main campus is the popular Graduate Storrs hotel and the surrounding area offers a variety of elegant B&Bs as well as the Inn on Storrs which is just a short drive away. In addition, the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Manchester, the Cambria Hotel in South Windsor, and the Hartford Marriott Downtown are all within a 30 minute drive to campus.
What is UConn doing to reduce food waste and minimize the carbon footprint of campus events?
UConn is dedicated to sustainability and our Dining and Catering Services are at the forefront of these efforts. From using local foods—some of which are grown at our own Spring Valley Student Farm—to composting and minimizing single-use service items, you can rest assured that your UConn event will be an environmentally conscious one. In fact, UConn Storrs has achieved the singular distinction of being the only U.S. college campus on which every dining hall holds the coveted Four-Star Certified Green Restaurants designation.
How far in advance should I contact UECS about my conference or event?
The size, type, and logistical requirements of the event or conference all factor into the amount of lead time needed to execute a high quality production. Contact our office to find out how much advance notice we would require for your event.
Can I use outside catering at my event?
It depends on the location of your event. Some spaces on campus only permit UConn catering while others allow outside catering as long as the vendor can provide proof of health department certification and insurance documents. Non-commercial, i.e. food prepared in a non-professional kitchen, is generally not permitted at campus events due to health and safety regulations.