For the first time in the event's eight-year history, outside businesses have been invited to showcase their event-planning services in conjunction with university departments. The expo, which takes place from noon to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, in Baker University Center's Grand Ballroom, expects to draw more than 20 vendors and up to 200 attendees. 

"We would like individuals to know that they do not have to plan an event by themselves. There are services out there and departments out there to help them in the process," said Associate Director of Event Services Kristin Stanley.

Displays at the Event Expo will be available for viewing in an open house format. Representatives from the various departments and businesses will be on site to assist with event-planning needs.

The intent, according to Nikki Ohms, assistant director of event services, who is coordinating this year's expo, is that anyone planning a conference, workshop, symposium, wedding or other event can visit the expo and receive good information on how to plan, advertise, market and execute a well-organized event on campus. 

The Event Services Office, within the Division of Student Affairs, will be featured at the Event Expo as the campus resource for all event planning needs. Created through a merger of three offices in 2009, Event Services is responsible for coordinating events at Baker University Center, Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium, Galbreath Chapel and Margaret M. Walter Hall, among others.

The decision to include community services was based on collaboration on many major conferences with The Athens County Convention and Visitor's Bureau and the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, said Ohms, adding, "It is important for us to involve the community members (because university) events have a major impact on their businesses when we bring in large groups."