[whyrusleeping]

I definetly agree... I was thinking of talking to the microsoft rep about it and about what we've run into. Its difficult to say "no" when your department is asking you to help plan and advertise this event from such an influential company.

[whyme]

I wouldn't discuss with the Microsoft rep. This is a decision your school needs to make.

You could politely decline to participate and provide your reasons for doing so. If your department feels strongly enough about it then let one of them volunteer to do it. If no one volunteers, then obviously they don't feel strongly about it. Your declining to participate sends a strong message.