UMass Lowell to Open Inn, Conference Center to Students

* M E D I A  A D V I S O R Y *

Special Event for Parents, Students Kicks Off Opening Week Activities

Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009
3 to 5 p.m. – Media Availability

WHAT:  More than 400 students will be welcomed as the first residents of UMass Lowell’s new Inn and Conference Center in downtown Lowell. At 4 p.m., a sign on the building will be unveiled, followed by brief remarks by Chancellor Marty Meehan, city of Lowell officials, downtown representatives and other partners. The Inn and Conference Center, formerly the Doubletree Hotel, was acquired in July by the university and will be used for a mix of student housing, event space and lodging.

This event marks the beginning of Opening Week for all UMass Lowell students. Throughout the week, special programs, events and other activities will be held to kick off the Fall 2009 semester. Highlights include:

• Convocation – Social justice activist Jamie Washington will speak to the Class of 2013 about making a difference in the world, their own lives and the lives of others. Other speakers at this official launch of the academic year will include Chancellor Meehan, deans and faculty. Students will be treated to a post-Convocation barbecue and club fair. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 10 a.m., Campus Recreation Center, UML East, 100 Pawtucket St., Lowell.
• Comedy show by Zach Galifianakis – Galifianakis, one of the stars of the hit movie “The Hangover,” will present a standup comedy show for UMass Lowell students and the general public. For tickets, check out www.umltickets.com. Friday, Sept. 4, 8 p.m., Campus Recreation Center.
• Other opening week activities include River Hawks on the Roof, featuring bands, food and activities on the top floor of the East Campus Garage; sports tournaments; outdoor movies; awareness programs; and UMass Lowell soccer and field hockey games.

WHERE: The UMass Lowell Inn and Conference Center is located at 50 Warren St. in downtown Lowell. For directions to the Inn and Conference Center and other Opening Week events, contact the Office of Public Affairs.