U of C has built a brand new hotel, it's on the LRT line that will take you to your conference:
http://www.hotelalma.ca/
SAIT is for sure closer and has some more interesting stuff to do within walking distance (Kensington/Riley park) and has a great view of downtown from right there.
Unrelated question, how did you end up on here if you've never been and aren't a Flames fan?