Networking and Social Events

Networking and Social Events

2023 AOCS Annual Meeting & Expo
April 30–May 3, 2023
Colorado Convention Center | Denver, Colorado, USA

Networking and Social Events

Make the most of your annual meeting experience by attending one of our networking events. Events are open to all annual meeting registrants! Please note that advance registration and fees may apply.


Sunday, April 30 

NEW in 2023 – Newcomers Reception | 2:30–3:30 p.m.

The Newcomers Reception welcomes all attendees who are new to the AOCS community! Connect with seasoned AOCS members – including current and past Governing Board Members, leaders from the AOCS Member Divisions and Sections, as well as current and past Society award winners.

Welcome Reception | 5:30–7 p.m.

Supported by

Welcome to Denver! Reconnect with colleagues and network with new business contacts during this reception in the exhibit hall. Grab your food and drink and then meet with others — this is where you begin making connections that could lead to lifelong collaborations.

Common Interest Group Networking Receptions* | 7–8 p.m.

Each of AOCS’ three Common Interest Groups—Student, Young Professional, and Professional Educator—host evening receptions to help you get to know more colleagues in a relaxed and fun environment.

AOCS Common Interest Groups (CIGs) foster communication between members who are at similar points in their careers. Connect with fellow attendees to discuss trends, overcome challenges, and share your knowledge and insights.

*Optional event. Advance registration is required. An extra fee may apply.

Monday, May 1

Governing Board Town Hall | 7:45–8:25 a.m.

Grab breakfast and join Governing Board members in the Exhibit Hall Theater. In addition to conducting routine business of the Society, members will have the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with AOCS Governing Board members.

Division and Section Lunches* | 1–2:25 p.m.

Meet colleagues with similar scientific and technological interests or discover opportunities to collaborate by attending an AOCS Division event. Divisions develop meeting programming, fund student awards and travel grants, and offer numerous leadership opportunities.

Attend these events to learn more about the group’s plans for the upcoming year, welcome the new leadership team, and celebrate award winners.

Networking Reception | 4:30–6 p.m.

Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and drinks, including local craft beers. Meet with exhibitors as you learn about products and services that can help you back at the office.

Division Receptions and Dinners* | 6–7:30 p.m.

Meet colleagues with similar scientific and technological interests or discover opportunities to collaborate by attending an AOCS Division event. Divisions develop meeting programming, fund student awards and travel grants, and offer numerous leadership opportunities. Attend these events to learn more about the group’s plans for the upcoming year, welcome the new leadership team, and celebrate award winners. *Optional event. Advance registration is required. An extra fee may apply.

*Optional event. Advance registration is required. An extra fee may apply.





Tuesday, May 2

New in 2023! Morning Yoga* | 6:45–7:45 a.m.

Kick off day three of the annual meeting with a yoga class with Erin McDougal from Zen Out Yoga. Get relaxed and centered before another day of learning. Towels and yoga mats will be provided, or you are welcome to bring your yoga mat from home.

There is no fee to participate but pre-registration is required. Space is limited!

Division and Section Lunches* | 1–2:25 p.m.

Meet colleagues with similar scientific and technological interests or discover opportunities to collaborate by attending an AOCS Division event. Divisions develop meeting programming, fund student awards and travel grants, and offer numerous leadership opportunities. Attend these events to learn more about the group’s plans for the upcoming year, welcome the new leadership team, and celebrate award winners.

Networking Reception | 4:30–6 p.m.

Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and drinks, including local craft beers. Meet with exhibitors as you learn about products and services that can help you back at the office.

Division Receptions and Dinners* | 6–7:30 p.m.

Meet colleagues with similar scientific and technological interests or discover opportunities to collaborate by attending an AOCS Division event. Divisions develop meeting programming, fund student awards and travel grants, and offer numerous leadership opportunities. Attend these events to learn more about the group’s plans for the upcoming year, welcome the new leadership team, and celebrate award winners.

*Optional event. Advance registration is required. An extra fee may apply.

Wednesday, May 3

AOCS Member and Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon | 1–2:25 p.m.

Sponsored by

We appreciate you! All meeting attendees are welcome to enjoy complimentary food and fun as we recognize our volunteers. You will also have a chance to win prizes! Learn more about how to volunteer and get inspired by those who make a difference through volunteering with AOCS.

 *Optional event. Advance registration is required. An extra fee may apply.

Every Day at the AOCS Annual Meeting

Daily Continental Breakfast in the Exhibit Hall

7:45–8:25 a.m. Help yourself to a light morning meal of pastries/baked goods, fruit, coffee and tea.

Daily Refreshment Breaks and Networking in the Exhibit Hall

10:30–10:55 a.m. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and teas. Network with exhibitors and other attendees.

Early Career Inspiration Lounge

Hosted by the Student Common Interest Group and the Young Professional Common Interest Group.

Students and early career professionals are welcome to enjoy the lounge, which features complimentary refreshments. Come network, relax, or use this comfortable space for work or business conversations.

Corporate Member Lounge

All employees of our valued AOCS Corporate Members are welcome to enjoy the lounge which features morning coffee service, device charging stations and comfortable spaces for relaxing or business conversations.

@home at AOCS

  • Take a fun, souvenir photo with photobooth props in front of the green screen.
  • Take a break and catch up with colleagues.
  • Get your questions answered by AOCS staff.
  • Browse AOCS books and products.
  • Learn about the AOCS Career Center’s available tools and resources.
  • Learn about AOCS Scientific and Society Awards.
  • Join an AOCS Division, Section, or Common Interest Group.