The 34th annual Big XII Conference on Black Student Government began Thursday night.

Twenty-eight schools checked into the 34th annual Big XII Conference on Black Student Government at MU during the first day of events Thursday.

A total of 650 student representatives from 45 different schools are expected to attend the conference. The schools include all universities in the Big 12, as well as the University of Nebraska, said Rachel Parrish, the head delegate of the conference.

More students will register as the conference goes on, Conference Planning Committee member Lakeisha Williams said.

“Not everyone registers for the conference before they arrive, they register when they make it to the hotel so it is possible the number in attendance will go up,” Williams said. “After tomorrow the conference attendance should reach capacity.”

Columbia experienced a wintery-mix of rain, snow and ice throughout Thursday, which could have prevented schools from attending the conference, Parrish said.

“Everyone attending should be here,” Parrish said. “There are a few schools that will not be making it tonight, and I’m sure there will be a couple more unable to come due to the inclement weather.”

The student representatives that have checked into the conference will be accommodated at the Holiday Inn Select Expo Center, across from the Columbia Mall, Parrish said. Transportation of students from the hotel to MU for conference events is provided as well.

The Big XII Conference will continue through Friday and Saturday night. Student representatives will return to their respective universities Sunday.