Conference and Event Services - Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an event?
Start by calling Conference and Event Services at 1-800-252-1562 ext. 1000 or 1-269-927-1000. Conference and Event Services professional staff will work with you to schedule the space you need along with the services you require.

What types of events are held at Lake Michigan College and the Mendel Center?
Lake Michigan College can accommodate groups ranging in size from 10 to over 1,000. With 20,000 square feet of meeting space and 10 multi-function rooms, the Mendel Center can host anything from a formal dinner, to a business meeting or a high school class reunion. Conference and Event Services professionals can answer questions regarding space.

What if I want to hold a wedding reception?
The Conference and Event Services team has experience in planning wedding receptions of all sizes. From causal to formal, the Conference and Event Services staff has experience in planning all types of wedding receptions. We work with you to customize the event to fit your personal style.

What facilities are available?
The Mendel Center has 10 multi-functional rooms, plus the 1,500-seat Mendel Mainstage, the 225-seat Hanson Threatre, the Upton Telecommunication Center, and the Advanced Training Center. Additional rooms and facilities can be scheduled in the main academic building on the Napier Avenue Campus. These rooms include multi-media classrooms, lecture halls, and computer labs. Facilities are subject to availability.

Do you have other locations?
Lake Michigan College has four locations.

How far in advance do I need to schedule my event?
Some events are scheduled as far out as five years to guarantee their dates. Other events are scheduled on short notice.

Can you hold a trade show at any of the locations?
The Grand Upton Hall has over 14,000 square feet of open space and is the primary trade show location. Depending upon configuration, as many as ninety, 8'x10' booths can be set up within the Upton. A large overhead door permits easy access to the room.

What about outdoor activities?
The Napier Avenue Campus has been the site of rock, country, and blues concerts. The parking lots have been used for car rallies, used car sales, and even a truck pull. The grounds have been used for picnics, wedding ceremonies, and class reunions.

How much does it cost?
Cost varies depending upon the size of the room, the kind of hospitality, and other support services. Contact Conference and Event Services for more information regarding room rental and cost.

How do I arrange for audiovisual equipment?
Standard audiovisual equipment and services are available in most rooms within the Mendel Center. Conference and Event Services can also provide video data projectors, overheads, slide projectors, monitors, VCR's, flip charts and easels. Arrangements can be made by contacting Conference and Event Services.

Can I bring in my own caterer?
Lake Michigan College maintains the exclusive rights for all consumable/non-consumable food and beverage sales for events held at the Mendel Center. No one is permitted to bring food and/or beverages onto the premises without the approval of the Department of Conference and Event Services.