MGS 2025 Conference – Speaker Information

April 23-24, 2025

Welcome to the 49th Annual MGS Conference! We deeply appreciate your contributions as speakers and your willingness to share knowledge with fellow professionals in the aging field. This event brings together gerontologists, educators, students, social workers, and industry experts committed to advancing age-friendly studies.

Below, you’ll find important details to help you prepare for your presentation.

Speaker Registration

By now, you should have completed the Speaker Registration Form from our initial email. If you submitted the form, MGS has already registered you, and no further action is needed.

• Complimentary Registration: Speakers receive one free day of attendance on the day they present.

• Discount for Attending Both Days: If you plan to attend both conference days, you’ll receive 50% off the second day’s rate. If applicable, an invoice has been emailed to you. (AFMN grantee speakers are exempt from this.)

Presentation & Handout Submissions

To ensure smooth execution, please submit your materials by April 7, 2025.

• Presentation Slides: Upload your PowerPoint (PPT) or PDF file here and label it with your First and Last Name (e.g., Joe_Smith).

• Handouts: If you have handouts for attendees, submit your Word or PDF document here.

Technology & Equipment

• Laptops: All speakers must bring their own laptops. If you need MGS to provide one, please notify us in advance.

• Moderators: Each session will have a moderator available to introduce speakers and assist with slide advancement if needed.

Session Details

Virtual Presenters (April 23 – Zoom)

• Platform: Sessions will be hosted on Zoom, with five breakout sessions running simultaneously.

• Session Support: Each session includes a presenter, moderator, and tech assistant. Your moderator will reach out to you soon via email (subject line: "MGS Moderator") to confirm your session needs.

• Interactive Features: If using polls or breakout rooms, inform your moderator in advance:

• • Provide poll questions for setup.

  • Indicate when breakout rooms should occur in your session.

• Joining Your Session:

• • The Zoom link will be emailed 10 days before the conference.

  • Log in 15 minutes before your session for setup assistance.

  • If you experience issues, text Heidi Holste at (612) 708-1982.

In-Person Presenters (April 24 – McNamara Alumni Center, University of Minnesota)

Check-In & Arrival

• Check-in at the Registration Desk, where we will direct you to your presentation room.

• Arrive 15-20 minutes before your session to set up.

Venue & Parking

• Location: McNamara Alumni Center, 200 SE Oak St, Minneapolis, MN 55455.

• Complimentary Parking: Available at the University Ramp (1926 University Ave. SE) next to McNamara Center.

• Parking Vouchers: Provided at the registration desk.

Exhibit & Networking

• Enjoy a continental breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks.

• Take time to network with attendees and explore the exhibit booths.

Additional Information for Speakers

Thursday Virtual Sessions

• A moderator will handle slides and Q&A.

• Log on 10 minutes before your session starts.

• Need assistance? Call or text (952) 210-1079.

Friday In-Person Sessions

• Check-in at the registration desk.

• If you haven’t submitted your slides, please bring them on a USB drive or email them to [Contact Email] before your session.

• Equipment Provided: Podium, large screen, and microphone.

• Laptops are NOT provided. If you prefer a moderator to advance your slides, notify us at check-in.

We are excited to have you as part of this year’s conference and appreciate your contributions. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

See you soon!