Here’s one way to impress meeting planners: convertible seating.

Consider, for example, the new Swiss Tech Convention Center in Lausanne, Switzerland, which features a 3,000-seat amphitheater that is fully modular. It houses a system of motorized swivel pins attached to each row of seats and concealed under the platform structure. The seats are raised or lowered, depending on what is needed for the meeting or event. The transformation takes approximately 15 minutes.

The convention center also features dye-sensitized solar cells, called Grätzel cells, that convert electricity similar to photosynthesis in plants.

“What we are doing with this convention center is a display of technology, a platform intended to draw attention to a remarkable device invented at our labs, to full-scale test this technology and to demonstrate its significant architectural potential,” Francis-Luc Perret, vice president for planning and logistics at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, told Phys.org.

Really, though, you should watch the video below. Now only will you learn more about the convention center’s convertible seating capabilities (around the two-minute mark), you’ll also be treated to the most serious sounding music I’ve ever heard accompany a venue marketing effort.

KWTV is reporting that Oklahoma University will expand its stadium.

“The project would commence following the final home game of the 2014 season against Oklahoma State on Dec. 6, with work being basically done around the clock,” Dean Blevins reported for KWTV.

The Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium expansion will cost an estimated $350-400 million dollars, and seating will increase from 82,112 to 88,000. Suites will be upgraded, new suites will be installed in the south end zone, and training and dressing facilities will be upgraded.

Check out the KWTV website for more information about the expansion and upgrades.

(photo credit: Curtis Simmons via photopin cc)

We’re accepting Venue Education Award nominations through Friday, May 30. The award acknowledges allied organizations, venues, and academic institutions that demonstrate active student involvement, excel in available educational opportunities as well as demonstrate leadership in education. The award also honors individuals who are actively involved in the education and continuous development of the venue management industry. Self-nominations will be accepted.

Last year’s recipient was Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE), and the award was accepted by Bob Hunter, CFE (pictured above, right, with Dr. Tim Nash from Northwood University). What made the organization stand out was that it worked with area colleges and universities to develop and execute on formal and rewarding internship programs to the benefit of the venue and educational community and to the students. MLSE also worked with the community in inviting area educational institutions K-12 and beyond to bring student groups through the venue to promote the business, teams, concerts, and events while simultaneously promoting job opportunities and careers.

“This allows students to familiarize themselves with other areas within venue management and network with other employees while contributing to charitable initiatives within the community,” MLSE wrote in its application. “It also gives them an opportunity to gain exposure to some unique events such as rink/court/pitch refurbishments, fundraising dinners/galas, and other exciting opportunities for learning, growth and development.”

If you’re actively encouraging and facilitating educational opportunities for members and future leaders of the venue management industry, then please apply for the Venue Education Award by Friday, May 30.

There was a lot of news this past week. Here are some stories that caught our eyes.

Today’s Not-so-quiet Social Media Revolution Puts the Performing Artist Center Stage
—Technorati
“Performing arts can literally take their greatest assets, the artists, and leverage the power of social media to craft arts celebrities. Not through trickery or false drama, but through the power of story and art; the very core of every successful performing arts organization.”

Do Your Suite Holders Trust You?
—ALSD
“Or maybe more importantly: Do you deserve to have their trust?”

MGM’s New Arena Won’t Stop Goodman From Pursuing Facility Downtown
—Las Vegas Sun
“Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman remains adamant that a downtown stadium will be built and that both venues could be home to professional sports franchises.”

New CEIR Report Reveals Attendee Floor Interaction Preferences
—IAEE
“This report pinpoints the demand for an immersive experience—evidence that attendees look to take advantage of the in-person, physical environment that is unique to live exhibitions and not available online.”

Atlanta Special FX Creates First Ever Man-Made Logo Clouds at Richmond International Raceway
—Lighting & Sound America
“NASCAR fanatics watched the sky all day as the midway was filled with clouds shaped like smiley faces, driver’s numbers, music notes, stars, and much more.”

(photo credit: Thomas Hawk via photopin cc)

(UPDATE: Voting has been opened to the general public via Venues Today‘s Facebook page. If you’re visiting its page via a mobile device, it’s recommended you vote at this link. Voting ends on Friday, May 9.)

It’s time to vote for the 2014 Women of Influence award given out by Venues Today. The award honors three women who have made a difference in the sports, music, and convention industries. You have to be a subscriber in order to vote, and you can vote for five women on the ballot.

Congratulations to everyone nominated, including the following IAVM members:

Jan Addison, CFE
Lynn Carlotto
Lisa Cochran
Cheryl Cohen
Wesley Cullen
Millie Dixon
Vicki Hawarden, CMP
Donna P. Julian
Chris Kibler, CPA
Kathy Kramer, CMP, CFE
Kerry Painter, CFE, CEM
Jill Pepper
Carol Pollock
Cheryl Swanson, CFE
Karen Totaro, CFE
Dawn R. Ullrich
Sally Williams

Please visit Venues Today for nominee bios and to vote.