Midwest Machine Learning Symposium --- Call for Hosting Proposals

The Midwest Machine Learning Symposium (MMLS) was inaugurated two years ago, and for its first two years was hosted by TTIC and the University of Chicago, in Hyde Park, Chicago. We are now seeking proposals for hosting the 3rd annual MMLS, in early summer 2019. The current intent is to alternate MMLS between Chicago and other midwestern locations. Accordingly, for 2019, priority will be given to central midwestern locations other than Chicago. But proposals from all locations are welcome and will be evaluated.

In the past two years, MMLS spanned two days and included a combination of talks by distinguished national and international guests, invited and contributed talks by midwestern researchers, panel discussions, industry participation, poster sessions, and receptions. MMLS has attracted upwards for 400 registered participants, and has operated with a budget of about $40k, provided by sponsoring organizations.

Proposals should come from an individual or individuals who are committed to serve as lead local organizers. The MMLS advisory committee will choose from among the proposals, and, in consultation with the proposing hosts, will from a symposium committee that will include the proposed hosts, as well as additional organizers from other midwestern institutions.

Proposals should be 1-2 pages in length, and may also include additional photographs or figures as necessary. Proposals should address:

  • Identification of the proposing hosts, their relevant background and experience, and their availability and commitment to host and organize MMLS.

  • Commitment to organizational and logistic support from one or several local Universities or other organizations, and discussion of the type of support that could be provided. This should include discussion of whether liability coverage for the event could be provided.

  • Proposed possible venues in which MMLS can be held, and initial cost estimates for their use, including necessary AV. This should include an auditorium with a capacity of 300-500, and space for poster sessions and receptions. Please also indicate whether food may be served in these venues, and any restriction on food services that may affect cost.

  • Proposed possible accommodation options,with initial cost estimates. This should include student accommodations that could be covered by the symposium budget, accomodations for invited guests, and accommodations for other participants who might pay their own accomodation costs.

  • Discussion of transportation options, including driving time and other transit options (air, rail, bus, etc) from major midwestern locations, possible air connections for invited guests, and local parking and transit options.

  • Discussion of any other advantages of hosting MMLS in the proposed location.

Proposals should be submittedby email directly to:
Page Metcalf (executive assistant, Grainger Institute), Rob Nowak (chair, MMLS Advisory Board).
Proposals will be evaluated during September 2018.