All AEESP2025 attendees are invited to enjoy these social events designed to foster connection, community, and fun throughout the conference. From welcome mixers to our signature gala and off-campus evening in downtown Durham, these gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to meet new colleagues, catch up with old friends, and enjoy the best of what Duke University and Durham have to offer.
Registration is required for each event. Attendees can modify their conference registration and purchase event tickets through the conference registration website. Please note that all events have limited capacity and ticket sales close on April 30—so be sure to reserve your spot early!
Tuesday, May 20
5:30pm – 8:00 pm | Welcome Mixers
Faculty/Professionals Welcome Mixer: The Champions Club at Cameron Indoor Stadium
Kick off AEESP2025 with a warm welcome at the Faculty & Professionals Welcome Mixer—a dedicated space for faculty, research scientists, and professionals in the environmental science and engineering community. Whether you’re catching up with longtime friends and colleagues or meeting peers for the first time, this relaxed and friendly gathering is the perfect opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation and expand your professional network.
During the event, we’ll also recognize and celebrate the recipients of the AEESP Service Awards, AEESP Lifetime Members, and the AEESP Fellows Class of 2024 and 2025—a moment to honor the individuals who have made lasting contributions to our field.
Join us for light refreshments, great company, and the chance to strengthen the community that drives our field forward.
Student/Postdocs Welcome Mixer: DeJoy Family Club at Blue Devil Tower
Graduate students, postdocs, and early-career researchers – come unwind and connect at the Student & Postdoc Welcome Mixer! This casual, engaging event is designed to help you meet fellow trainees attending AEESP2025 while exploring career opportunities in environmental science and engineering. Representatives from sponsoring organizations and AEESP Sustaining Members will be present to share insights and answer questions about their career paths and institutions. Whether you’re looking to make friends, build your professional network, or just enjoy a relaxed evening with peers, this is the place to be.
Wednesday, May 21
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Party on the Plaza Gala Reception
Tickets: $30 | Advance purchase required by April 30
Wrap up your day at AEESP 2025 with one of the week’s most anticipated social event—the Party on the Plaza Gala Reception! Located just steps from the final technical sessions, this festive evening brings everyone together in the heart of Duke’s campus for a celebration of community, collaboration, and fun.
Enjoy an array of North Carolina-inspired small plates and hearty hors d’oeuvres, refreshing drinks, and live music from the Triangle Afrobeat Orchestra—a high-energy ensemble that will keep the vibe upbeat and exciting. Play a round of lawn games, snap memories at the photo booth, and take in the beautiful setting across Penn Plaza, Penn Pavilion, and the Devil’s Krafthouse Pub Garden—a vibrant campus hub and perfect backdrop for a spring evening with friends and colleagues.
Please note: Tickets will not be sold during the conference, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance!
Thursday, May 22
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Night Out in Durham
Tickets: $30 | Advance purchase required by April 30
Wrap up the AEESP2025 conference with a relaxed evening at the Durham Food Hall, located in the heart of downtown Durham. This off-campus gathering offers a unique chance to explore local flavors from Durham’s top food vendors, connect with colleagues, and unwind in a lively and social atmosphere. Enjoy a curated selection of hearty small plates and refreshing drinks as you experience the vibrant energy of one of Durham’s most popular food spots.
During the evening, we’ll also announce the Best Poster Presenter Awards for students and postdocs and celebrate their outstanding contributions to the conference.
Shuttle buses will run between Duke’s West Campus (pick-up on Chapel Drive bus stop, in front of the Duke Chapel) and the Durham Food Hall starting at 5:30 PM, with continuous service throughout the evening. The ride is approximately 10 minutes each way, making it an easy and convenient trip.
Please note: No ticket sales will be available during the conference, so be sure to secure your spot in advance!
