The Shaffer Conference Room at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is a vital meeting space designed to facilitate academic discussions, research presentations, and collaborative events. Located within the prestigious McDonnell Medical Sciences Building, this conference room serves as a hub for students, faculty, and researchers.
In this guide, we will explore the features, amenities, reservation process, and benefits of the Shaffer Conference Room, as well as compare it with other similar spaces at WashU.
Location and Accessibility
The Shaffer Conference Room is strategically located on the first floor of the McDonnell Medical Sciences Building. This placement makes it an easily accessible venue for medical students, faculty, and visitors attending university events.
Key Accessibility Features:
- Wheelchair accessibility – The facility includes ramps, elevators, and accessible seating arrangements.
- Proximity to parking – Convenient access to WashU’s parking garages ensures attendees can reach the venue with ease.
- Public transportation – WashU’s shuttle service and nearby public transit stops make it convenient for students and guests without personal transportation.
Features and Amenities
The Shaffer Conference Room is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support a variety of academic and professional events.
Audio-Visual Equipment
- High-definition projectors and large screens for presentations.
- Wireless microphones and an advanced sound system for lectures and discussions.
- Video conferencing capabilities for remote participation.
Seating and Capacity
- Flexible seating arrangements, including theater-style, classroom-style, and roundtable configurations.
- Maximum capacity of approximately 50–75 participants, depending on the setup.
Technology and Internet
- High-speed Wi-Fi for seamless online research and presentations.
- Smartboard integration to enhance interactive learning experiences.
Additional Amenities
- Temperature-controlled environment to ensure comfort during long sessions.
- Whiteboards and markers for brainstorming sessions.
- On-site technical support for troubleshooting any equipment-related issues.
Common Uses of the Shaffer Conference Room
The Shaffer Conference Room at WashU is frequently utilized for:
Academic and Research Meetings
Professors and researchers use this space to collaborate on scientific projects, present findings, and discuss new research directions.
Medical and Healthcare Seminars
Given its location in the McDonnell Medical Sciences Building, the room is commonly reserved for medical conferences, workshops, and guest lectures.
Student Group Discussions and Events
Student organizations, particularly those involved in medicine, science, and public health, host study sessions, leadership meetings, and networking events in the conference room.
Faculty and Administrative Conferences
University officials utilize the Shaffer Conference Room for policy discussions, faculty meetings, and administrative planning.
How to Reserve the Shaffer Conference Room
Reserving the Shaffer Conference Room requires following specific guidelines set by the Operations & Facilities Management Department at WashU.
Steps to Book the Room:
- Check availability – Contact WashU’s Facilities Department at 314-747-6338 or via email at MEET@wustl.edu.
- Submit a request – Provide details such as the date, time, purpose, and expected attendance.
- Approval process – The university will review your request and confirm the reservation based on availability.
- Technical setup – Request any necessary AV equipment, seating arrangement, or additional services in advance.
Reservation Policies
- Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before the scheduled event.
- Priority is given to faculty, researchers, and medical students for academic and research purposes.
- External organizations must receive special approval before booking the space.
Comparison with Other Conference Spaces at WashU
| Conference Room | Location | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaffer Conference Room | McDonnell Medical Sciences Building | 50-75 | Research meetings, seminars |
| Tumor Board Conference Room | Siteman Cancer Center, Gary C. Werths Bldg | 30-50 | Medical discussions, case studies |
| Terrace Garden Meeting Space | Northwest Tower | 20-40 | Small group meetings, informal events |
| Danforth University Center | Main Campus | 75-100 | Large conferences, public lectures |
Advantages of the Shaffer Conference Room
Prime Location
Being situated in the McDonnell Medical Sciences Building, the Shaffer Conference Room is ideal for medical and scientific meetings.
High-Tech Facilities
The modern AV setup, video conferencing, and smartboard technology make it an excellent choice for collaborative learning and research presentations.
Quiet and Professional Environment
The soundproof design ensures that meetings remain undisturbed, making it an ideal venue for serious discussions and professional gatherings.
Flexible Usage
With adjustable seating and multiple configuration options, the conference room can host small study groups as well as larger professional seminars.
Conclusion
The Shaffer Conference Room at Washington University in St. Louis is a valuable space for academic, research, and professional meetings. With state-of-the-art technology, flexible seating arrangements, and a prime location, it serves as an ideal venue for students, faculty, and researchers. Whether you need a quiet space for a medical seminar or a high-tech room for a research presentation, the Shaffer Conference Room is one of the best options available at WashU.
For reservations and inquiries, contact 314-747-6338 or email MEET@wustl.edu to book your event today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can book the Shaffer Conference Room at WashU?
The room is available for faculty, researchers, students, and administrative staff. External organizations may require additional approval.
What is the maximum capacity of the room?
The Shaffer Conference Room can accommodate 50–75 people, depending on the seating arrangement.
Does the room have video conferencing capabilities?
Yes, the room includes high-speed internet, video conferencing tools, and projectors for remote meetings.
How far in advance should I reserve the room?
Reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance to secure availability.
Is there a fee for booking the room?
Most internal university events do not require a fee, but external organizations may have to pay a rental fee.
What should I do if I need technical support?
WashU provides on-site IT support for troubleshooting any equipment or connectivity issues
