Here are a few things you might like to know or think about.
Before
In years past, we have sent out room assignments ahead of time and encouraged you to proceed straight to your dorm. This year everyone will come to the same location to get registered, so you can stop looking for room assignments!
Those over 18 and participating in the conference should fill out a liability waiver here.
One form will cover all members of your immediate family. Additionally, we may want to take your picture while you are with us, so we can enjoy conference sights during our time together and treasure memories in the future. We assume that this is okay with folks who have registered. If you are not willing to have your picture shared, please contact us at programdirectors@rpiconference.org.
When You Pack
Bring a psalter if you have one. Also bring a red psalter if you are coming to the Throwback Thursday psalm sing. Bring bats and balls for softball, board and card games or puzzles, and other equipment for recreation.
Laundry facilities will be available to us, but plan to bring your own detergent. Consider bringing swimwear for the pool, and maybe an extra towel. IWU will provide sheets, pillow cases, towels, washcloths and a blanket. If you are a cold sleeper, bring an extra blanket to supplement the linens provided. If you’re a person who likes your own pillow, considering bringing it.
IWU observes a conservative dress code. As good guests, we want to cooperate with our hosts. Please plan to bring clothes that will help you be a good guest. See IWU’s dress code here. IWU has a few high chairs, but we will have more than a few babies! If you have room, consider bringing booster seats and baby utensils for the dining hall, if you are bringing little ones.
Stow your RP Congregational T-Shirts for use on Wednesday at the conference.
On the Way
Plan your trip so that you arrive between 1 PM and 6 PM on Tuesday. Coming early will make it harder for us to get ready for you! If you somehow miss lunch on the road, you can purchase something to eat on Tuesday afternoon at Chick-fil-A in the Barnes Student Center. Information about our airport shuttle is coming in a separate email.
When You Arrive
Please come to the Chapel Auditorium on University Boulevard and find the registration area in the Foyer at the east end of the building. Room keys, conference booklets, name tags, etc., will be distributed to adults at the registration table. You may also sign up for sports and recreation events, including signing up for a time slot at the Splash House for Thursday night if you’re interested. After registering, move into your room and head to Barnes for dinner (4:30 – 6:30 PM)!
During the Week
Remember to allow folks who have trouble standing for longer periods (the disabled and elderly) to pass though and enter the dining hall without waiting in line. Look for an email about accommodation for those with food allergies from Kyle Reed at operations@rpiconference.org. We will have four worship services during the week: two on the Lord’s Day and two on weeknight evenings. Prepare to come and worship! On Thursday night, there will be several options to choose from: swimming at the Splash House, watching the movie Mully, and a Throwback Thursday red psalter psalm sing, so make a plan for what to do with your friends or your family.
Turning Toward Home
The conference ends Monday morning, but it ends without additional conference events. Monday is framed as a travel day. If you have the time, and wish to eat at the dining hall on Monday morning before you leave, you may do so by paying $7.50 per person at the entrance to the dining hall.