PI Meeting 2024 FAQ

Meeting Logistics FAQs

2024 NSF ITEST PI Meeting

Please see below for frequently asked questions about registration and live streaming, pre-meeting networking on Slack, and event logistics. If you have a question we haven't addressed, please email us at stelar@edc.org.

PARTICIPATION

Can I participate remotely?

In-person meeting registration is closed. We invite you to join us via live stream by registering here. 

Please see the detailed agenda for a schedule of the live stream sessions, identified with the camera symbol .

The live stream will be recorded and made available for on-demand viewing after the event concludes.

PRE-MEETING NETWORKING on SLACK

How can I connect with other attendees before the event on Slack?

To maximize the time we have for the in-person event, we are using a Slack workspace to make introductions and learn about each other beforehand. 

To get started, you'll need to create an account using the invitation link you received via email. Once you're logged in, you can join channels for your grade band, posters/expos, and connect with new PIs, send messages, and start collaborating with your team. If you need assistance, please email the STELAR team at stelar@edc.org. We will be glad to help you join our 2024 NSF PI Meeting Slack group.

Any additional tips for using Slack effectively?

Remember to use @mentions to notify specific team members, use emojis and reactions to express yourself, and keep channels organized by archiving or leaving channels that are no longer relevant to you.

In the days ahead of the meeting, log into our Slack workspace and read about other attendees' projects. Send a quick note to anyone you'd like to connect with in-person during the meeting.

EVENT LOGISTICS

Where is the event taking place?

The meeting will take place at the Westin Alexandria Hotel in Alexandria, Virginia. 
Hotel Address:
The Westin Alexandria
400 Courthouse Sq., Alexandria, VA, 22314

Hotel Website 
Phone: 703-253-8600

Valet parking is available at an average rate of $40 per day. 

The Westin Alexandria is approximately 4.5 miles (20 minutes) from the Reagan National Airport and 0.5 miles (4 minutes) from the Alexandria Union Station.

For comprehensive ground transportation information please visit the Westin Transportation link.

What if I need to ship something to the conference?

You may ship posters and materials to yourself at the hotel using the following information: 

   (First Name) (Last Name), Guest arriving (date) 
   THE WESTIN ALEXANDRIA OLD TOWN
   400 Courthouse Square, Alexandria, VA  22314

Who can I contact on the day of the conference if I need immediate assistance?

If you need immediate assistance on site, please call Amy Lozen at 734-645-9665. 

 

What is the attire for the event?

The attire for this event will be "business casual." 

Spring in DC can be unpredictable, but we expect that the hotel’s meeting rooms will be on the cooler side. Be sure to dress in layers as the temperature will likely vary throughout the day as we move from plenary to breakouts and back. 

How do I get to Alexandria, VA?

The Alexandria area is serviced by the Reagan National Airport (Airport Code: DCA) and the Alexandria Union Station (Amtrak Code: ALX). 

What can I explore in the area?

For things to do, amazing restaurants, history, and more, visit https://www.visitalexandriava.com/. 

What COVID precautions should I take?

The team will have masks available at the registration desk for those who would like to wear one while attending the event.

While attending the in-person event, we are asking all convening attendees to stay home if you are feeling sick. We also ask that you do not attend or participate in the convening if you meet any of the following:

• You have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not completed the CDC’s guidelines for discontinuing isolation.
• You are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
• You have had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, and you
• have not completed the quarantine guidelines recommended by the CDC.

Please email us at stelar@edc.org if you have any questions about the meeting that are not addressed here.