Kick off your Convening Leaders experience by giving back! This year PCMA is bringing its Hospitality Helping Hands program to the Coalition for the Homeless... More

Meeting professionals, golf amateurs. Before your time at Convening Leaders begins, join meeting professionals for a shotgun start scramble and plenty... More

Kick off your Convening Leaders experience by giving back! This year PCMA is bringing its Hospitality Helping Hands program to the Clean the World Foundation.... More

This invitation-only program is designed for global convention center and DMO executives and their local Board members and policy makers, with programming... More

A position in event operations requires an understanding of project management and a variety of skills such as how to run an event, manage marketing, conduct... More

Meeting Planners – Did you know that you can join your Convention Services partners for a day of joint Planner/CSM interactive sessions at the ESPA Annual... More

How many times have you heard the phrase? Is your literature review over the top or scratching the surface? Get the inside scoop on the topics, methods,... More

Moderator:

Amanda Cecil, Associate Professor & Program Director, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Panelists:

Abraham Pizam, Hospitality Manage, College of Business Administra, University of Central Florida

George Fenich, Professor - School of Hospitality Leadership, East Carolina University

Fevzi Okumus, Professor of Leadership and Strategic Management, University of Central Florida, Rosen School of Hospitality Mgmt

Youcheng Wang, Professor of Leadership and Strategic Management, University of Central Florida, Rosen School of Hospitality Mgmt

With graduation around the corner, make your life a little easier by joining us for lunch and an educational program to better equip you to face the job... More

Meeting Planners – Did you know that you can join your Convention Services partners for joint Planner/CSM interactive sessions at the ESPA Annual Conference... More

Visit Orlando hosts meeting planners on a narrated motorcoach tour of Orlando’s famous meeting and event venues, hotels and attractions. You’ll be picked... More

Achievement Awards and Recognition Committee – Lake Sheen A Advocacy Task Force –Lake Down A Digital Strategy Task Force – Lake Down B Education Task... More

The Digital Event Strategist (DES) certification, offered through Virtual Edge Institute (VEI), is specifically designed to help anyone responsible for... More

A “must-attend” for first-time attendees and anyone wanting a “refresher” on how to get the most out of your Convening Leaders experience! Join us to... More

Begin your Convening Leaders experience by connecting with your industry peers. This reception is by invitation only and is exclusively for Corporate... More

With entertainment and experiences for all – you’ll meet amazing dolphins at Key West and sea turtles at the all-new Turtle Trek ; brave Manta, our thrilling... More

Solo-Presenter:

Dahlia El Gazzar, Founder, Dahlia+

Solo-Presenter:

Mark Smith, Sales Project Manager, Technology Solutions, Freeman

Solo-Presenter:

Kirsten Olean, Director Of Meetings, Association of American Medical Colleges

Solo-Presenter:

Julie Ann Schmidt, President, Lithium Logistics Group

Solo-Presenters:

MaryAnne Bobrow, President, Bobrow & Associates, Inc.

Michael Owen, CEO/Managing Partner, EventGenuity, LLC

Co-Presenters:

Germaine Schaefer, Director, Convention Operations, American Diabetes Association

Ronald Olejko, Senior Director, Meeting Services, American College of Rheumatology

Solo-Presenter:

Julie Ann Schmidt, President, Lithium Logistics Group

True or false? The best leaders are the most visionary and most willing to take risks. False. The way to succeed in our fast-paced world is to keep... More

Solo-Presenter:

Morten Hansen, Management Professor; Co-Author of Great by Choice; Author of Collaboration, University of California, Berkeley and INSEAD, France

Solo-Presenter:

Amy Spartrisano, , MeetGreen

Co-Presenters:

Roger Lewis, Vice President, Alliance Tech, Inc.

Robin Preston, Asst. Executive Director, Conferences, Exhibits & Sponsorships, National School Boards Association

Solo-Presenter:

Steven Short, VP Interactive Services, PSAV Presentation Services

Solo-Presenter:

Kristin Brammell, Meeting Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Facilitator:

Stuart Ruff, Director, Meetings, Exhibitions & Events, RIMS - The Risk Management Society

We all wish we had a crystal ball, but we don’t want to end up eating the glass. What if you could hear from the global visioning experts for services... More

Moderator:

Peter Yesawich, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Ypartnership

Panelists:

Bob Somers, Vice President, Global Sales, Delta Air Lines, Inc.

David Townshend, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Marriott International

It's no secret both exhibitors and attendees are evaluating their trade show participation more closely. You've got to find out exactly what they expect... More

Co-Presenters:

Germaine Schaefer, Director, Convention Operations, American Diabetes Association

Elena Grant, VP, Marketing,

Felicia Kaban, Manager, Conventions & Exhibits, LifeScan, Inc. & Animas Corporation, Part of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies

International meetings present unique challenges for planners and sponsors. Critical issues such as money transfers, terrorism and diseases, security,... More

Solo-Presenter:

Joshua Grimes, Attorney at Law, Grimes Law Offices, LLC

Grab a seat for this fact-filled session on how to reduce your organization's financial risk and improve cash flow planning in these challenging economic... More

Co-Presenters:

Mark Holmes, Partner, B2B CFO®

Tony Lorenz, Founder, bXb Online

Wishing there were standard operating procedures for relationships between the increasing number of independent planners and CSMs at hotels, convention... More

Moderator:

Joan Eisenstodt, Chief Strategist , Eisenstodt Associates, LLC

Panelists:

Kristin House, Vice President/Team Director, ConferenceDirect

Ed DiAntonio, Director of Catering and Convention Services, Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort

Dana Saal, Owner, Dana L Saal Meeting Consultant

Rhonda Eaton, National Convention Sales Manager, Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority

Are you frustrated by the arduous grant-writing process, lack of available funds, the impact of government regulation...or all of the above? Don't miss... More

Panelists:

Jacqueline Mayhew, Director, Medical Education Group, Pfizer, Inc.

Theresa Jowell, Manager, Independent Medical Education (IME), Alcon Laboratories, Inc.

Kimberley D'Onofrio-Lopez, Senior Medical Education Manager, Genentech, Inc.

Moderator:

Theresa Barrett, Deputy Executive Vice President , New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians

Welcome to your very own experimental meetings laboratory! Rotate through four participatory exercises and room sets to experience firsthand exciting... More

Solo-Presenter:

Jeff Hurt, EVP, Education & Engagement, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Do you think of yourself as a brand? You should! How you're perceived by others - both internally at your organization and externally to the industry-at-large... More

Co-Presenters:

Lesley Kyle, President, Open Mind Works, Inc.

Dawn Penfold, President , Meetingjobs, LLC

Virtual offices and workplaces scattered around the globe are becoming more common every day. Faculty members: Give your students a leg up in this competitive... More

Co-Presenters:

Angel Tazzer, Faculty Support Manager, St. Edward's University

Mark Poulos, Professor, St. Edward's University

Recommended for our Supplier Partner attendees—this lecture will focus on the key elements for building a successful sales strategy in today’s business... More

Solo-Presenter:

Nathan Jamail, President, Jamail Development Group

If you're thinking of adding a virtual or hybrid event to your meeting offerings - or simply want to catch up on this rapidly changing arena - this session... More

Co-Presenters:

Corbin Ball, Owner, Corbin Ball Associates

Michael Doyle, Executive Director, Virtual Edge Institute

JoAnn Klinedinst, Vice President, Professional Development,

Karen Malone, Vice President , HIMSS

Let's face it: If you want to win attendees' time, attention and money, you've got to give them something extraordinary. The key is engagement. Explore... More

Co-Presenters:

Greg Fuson, Principal, Artful Engagement

Rebecca Jackson, Founder and Artistic Director, Music in May

Welcome to the Corporate HQ! Join us as we introduce this brand-new learning environment and three-day learning track. Discover how the Corporate HQ... More

Co-Presenters:

Terri Breining, Principal, Breining Group LLC

Greg Bogue, Experience Architect, Maritz Travel Company

Incorporating games into your meeting can encourage networking and engage attendees on a deeper level, all while generating positive sentiment towards... More

Co-Presenters:

Kurt Nelson, President & Founder, The Lantern Group

Bob Vaez, President, EventMobi

Co-Presenters:

Godwin-Charles Ogbeide, Associate Professor, University of Arkansas

George Fenich, Professor - School of Hospitality Leadership, East Carolina University

Solo-Presenter:

Izania Downie, Director Strategic Partnerships, ACTIVE Network Business Solutions

Solo-Presenter:

Tahira Endean, Director, Creative and Production, Cantrav Services

Solo-Presenter:

Stormi Boyd, Senior Events & Convention Manager, Keller Williams Realty International

Solo-Presenter:

Jordan Schwartz, CEO, Pathable, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Roger Rickard, President, Chief Advocate, Revent - Voices In Advocacy

Facilitator:

Lynn Randall, Managing Partner, Randall Insights, LLC

Solo-Presenter:

Kathleen Edwards, President, the Learning Evangelist

Solo-Presenter:

Trevor Roald, Mobile Event Technology Evangelist, QuickMobile Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Jonathan Bradshaw, CEO, The Meetology® Group

Solo-Presenter:

Suzanne Carawan, Vice President, Global Marketing, etouches

Solo-Presenter:

Christine Shimasaki, Managing Director of empowerMINT.com & event impact calculator, Destination Marketing Association International

First-time business conference C2-MTL hit it out of the ballpark last year, causing everyone from young hipsters covered in tattoos to corporate execs... More

Co-Presenters:

Jean-Francois Bouchard, President, Sid Lee

Michelle Russell, Editor in Chief, Convene Magazine

Experienced meeting professionals have seen it all...suppliers' markets, planners' markets, attrition, weather disasters, terrorism threats....or have... More

Solo-Presenter:

Joshua Grimes, Attorney at Law, Grimes Law Offices, LLC

Some have declared the call for speaker proposals dead. After all, how do you guarantee what gets submitted actually meets your attendees' needs? Some... More

Solo-Presenter:

Jeff Hurt, EVP, Education & Engagement, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Let's face it ...times are tight. And then some, if you're producing medical meetings. Join your colleagues for real-world strategies for creating new... More

Co-Presenters:

Wanda Johnson, Senior Director, Meetings & Education, Endocrine Society

Janet Skorepa, Associate Executive Director, Education & Meetings, American Urological Association, Inc.

Designing meetings and events that attract new and emerging leaders and inspire them to return will be critical to your future success. Explore findings... More

Co-Presenters:

George Fenich, Professor - School of Hospitality Leadership, East Carolina University

Godwin-Charles Ogbeide, Associate Professor, University of Arkansas

Sheila Scott-Halsell, Assistant Professor , School of Hotel and Restaurant Administration

Do you like to be treated personally or like you're just a face in the crowd? It's possible to personalize even the largest meetings for your attendees... More

Solo-Presenter:

William Reed, Director of Meetings, American Society of Hematology

Are you the Queen or King Bee, or the Worker Bee? Join this interactive conversation about how to manage your time and energy in order to boost your... More

Solo-Presenter:

Sunil Bhaskaran, Creative Innovative Strategist, Cahaya Mind

Solid leadership skills are fundamental to organizational success. But do you recognize how your daily leadership practices are actually affecting the... More

Solo-Presenter:

Richard Hadden, Managing Partner, Contented Cow Partners, LLC

The days of meeting planners receiving convention center space or services for free are dwindling. As more cities tighten their financial belts, the pressure... More

Moderator:

Claire Smith, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Vancouver Convention Centre

Panelists:

James Rooney, Executive Director , Massachusetts Convention Center Authority

Robin Preston, Asst. Executive Director, Conferences, Exhibits & Sponsorships, National School Boards Association

John Patronski, Executive Vice President, Global Experience Specialists (GES)

Lisa Block, Vice President of Meetings and Conferences, Society for Human Resource Management

David Causton, General Manager, McCormick Place/SMG

Gregory O'Dell, President & Chief Executive Officer, Events DC

Chances are you started an independent planning company because you loved planning meetings.....not running a business, right? But now you're the one... More

Panelists:

Mark Holmes, Partner, B2B CFO®

Suzanne Carawan, Vice President, Global Marketing, etouches

Max Suzenaar, CEO , Minding Your Business, Inc.

Moderator:

Lisa Brannum, President, Be Seen, LLC

Technology has made it easier than ever to work virtually, but don't let your team be one of the 50% that research shows is failing to meet their objectives!... More

Solo-Presenter:

Ann Max, President, Productive to the Max

Senior-level corporate planners will get to dig deep with an afternoon-long business simulation designed to help you earn and maintain a seat at the table... More

Co-Presenters:

Kelley Butler, Director, Meetings & Events, McDonald's Corporation

Phil Cavanagh, Vice President, Global Events, Monster Worldwide

Sue Potton, Managing Director, Sue Potton Associates

Teri Tonioli, Vice President Sales, Corporate Accounts, Freeman

Joseph Bierowski, Account Executive, Maritz Travel Company

Level 2, Halls WA4/WB1, Level 3, Meeting Room Foyers

Solo-Presenter:

John Pollard, Event Services Program Director, Sonic Foundry

Solo-Presenter:

Tyra Hilliard, Assoc Professor, University of Alabama

Solo-Presenter:

Kristin Howard, Meeting Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Todd Tolbert, Senior Vice President, Strategic Content Solutions

Facilitator:

Greg Fuson, Principal, Artful Engagement

Don’t miss our “trademark” PCMA Learning Lounge - offering bite-sized, hands-on and experiential learning. Back by popular demand, this year’s Learning... More

Solo-Presenter:

Kathleen Edwards, President, the Learning Evangelist

Solo-Presenter:

Francis Friedman, President, Time & Place Strategies, Inc

Solo-Presenter:

Dahlia El Gazzar, Founder, Dahlia+

Solo-Presenter:

Mark Smith, Sales Project Manager, Technology Solutions, Freeman

Facilitator:

Tahira Endean, Director, Creative and Production, Cantrav Services

Coming soon to a meeting room not far away....three of the newest and most promising presentation technologies! You won't want to miss demonstrations... More

Solo-Presenter:

Richard Reid, Vice President, Digital Services, Freeman

Conventions and trade shows are facing even greater scrutiny than ever before. Meeting professionals need to make sure they're planning strategically... More

Co-Presenters:

Dave Fellers, Association Consultant, Dave Fellers Consulting

Cari Cas Strouse, Meetings, Events, & Tradeshows Director, CH2M Hill

Are you run ragged by a chaotic schedule, too much travel, or long hours onsite? In this session, you'll get to practice a technique that will restore... More

Solo-Presenter:

Tom DeLuca, Principal, DeLuca Enterprises, Inc.

Dig deep during an interactive Q&A with Richard Hadden, a PCMA Business School speaker earlier in the day and the co-author of the critically acclaimed,... More

Co-Presenters:

Richard Hadden, Managing Partner, Contented Cow Partners, LLC

Barbara Palmer, Senior Editor/Director, Online Content, Professional Convention Management Association

Wondering what the industry's best of the best is doing right now to increase revenues and improve the value of their exhibitions? Here's your chance... More

Moderator:

Sam Lippman, President , Lippman Connects

Panelists:

Lori Anderson, President & CEO, International Sign Association

Vincent Polito, President, V.P. International

Many of us make adjustments each year to our Annual Meeting to refresh it, but do you take the time to step out of your own shoes and into your attendees'... More

Co-Presenters:

Katie Callahan-Giobbi, Executive Vice President, Minding Your Business, Inc.

John Folks, President , Minding Your Business, Inc.

Members of ESPA, Event Service Professionals Association, answer your questions about career opportunities in hotels, convention centers and convention... More

Panelists:

Julie Brakenbury, Director of Services, Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau

Cecilia Padilla-Quillen, Director of Convention Services, Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau

Shawn-Ta Wilson, House Manager, Tampa Convention Center

Joan Kremer, Corporate Director of Food and Beverage, Starwood Hotel & Resorts Worldwide

Eric Blanc, Director of Sales, Marketing & Convention Services, Tampa Convention Center

Devon Sloan, Director of Events, Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort

Moderator:

Deborah Breiter, Professor, University of Central Florida, Rosen School of Hospitality Mgmt

Are you stuck at a career crossroads, not sure where to go? Would you like to stay at your current organization but advance to the next level? Or maybe... More

Solo-Presenter:

Lisa Kappesser, President, EQ Coaching Solutions

Attend this lecture to gain a stronger understanding of the current economic and business situation in the United States and in major foreign markets,... More

Solo-Presenter:

Lawrence Chimerine, President, Radnor International Consulting, Inc

When it comes to crisis management, you can never be too prepared. Operational impacts to meetings, events and the organization as a whole can be devastating.... More

Solo-Presenter:

Brad Goldberg, Owner/CEO, TriGold Consulting, LLC

You asked for it....you got it! After a similar successful session at Convening Leaders 2012, we'll be opening it up again for a private discussion between... More

Facilitators:

Johnnie White, Executive Director, Center For Education, Cardiovascular Research Foundation

Debra Rosencrance, Vice President of Meetings and Exhibits, American Academy of Ophthalmology

Perceptions of business ethics are changing, yet many ethics policies remain the same. What's more, everyone in the meetings and hospitality industry... More

Co-Presenters:

Joan Eisenstodt, Chief Strategist , Eisenstodt Associates, LLC

Kelly Franklin Bagnall, Attorney , Dykema Gossett PLLC

Solo-Presenter:

Jordan Schwartz, CEO, Pathable, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Silke Fleischer, CEO, Co-Founder - EventPilot Conference App, ATIV Software

Solo-Presenter:

Christine Shimasaki, Managing Director of empowerMINT.com & event impact calculator, Destination Marketing Association International

Join PCMA Convening Leaders Tweeps at this informal event. Meet others that love social media and Twitter as much as you. Learn more about Tweeting Mingle... More

Rock the night away at Hard Rock Live Orlando! Back by popular demand, The Spazmatics will have you dusting off your dancing shoes and showcasing your... More

Join your friends and colleagues at the 2013 PCMA Fun Run/Walk! This 5K path (with shorter turnaround points) offers participants a serene and scenic... More

Getting others to buy into your ideas can be challenging, even when you come from a position of strength. What if you lack authority, are new to your... More

Solo-Presenter:

Sue Hershkowitz-Coore, Managing Partner, High Impact Presentations

We all know AV elements are vital for a positive meeting experience. But did you know there are new facts about how audiovisual technology affects everything... More

Co-Presenters:

Andrea Sullivan, President, BrainStrength Systems

Greg Van Dyke, Senior Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing, PSAV Presentation Services

Kati Quigley, Sr. Director, WW Partner Community Events, Microsoft Corporation

No abstract lecture on the environment here..... Join some of PCMA's Environmental Leadership Award winners - a.k.a. your peers - for practical suggestions... More

Moderator:

Amy Spatrisano, Principal, MeetGreen®

Panelists:

Andrew Mikschl, Vice President, Sales & Services, San Diego Convention Center Corporation

Kimberly Lewis, Senior Vice President, Community Advancement and Conferences & Events, US Green Building Council

David Dvorak, Vice President Catering & Convention Services, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

Taking place in our innovative Corporate HQ environment, this session is not only for corporate planners, but for all who are interested in learning more... More

Solo-Presenter:

Linda (Lennie) Scott-Webber, Director Education Environments, Steelcase Education Solutions

Whoosh… You hear that sound every day. It’s the sound of the digital world disrupting the status quo. Conventions and trade shows are not immune. We’ve... More

Moderator:

Michelle Bruno, President, Bruno Group Signature Events

Panelists:

Michael Doyle, Executive Director, Virtual Edge Institute

H. Stephen Lieber, President/CEO, Healthcare Information & Management Systems Society

Tony Lorenz, Founder, bXb Online

Johnnie White, Executive Director, Center For Education, Cardiovascular Research Foundation

Chris Brown, Director of Meetings & Membership Services, National Association of Broadcasters

Rich Hawkinson, EVP Product Development, INXPO

Did you know your meeting location could affect how well you negotiate? Why you should ask a possible business partner to do you a favor? How knowing... More

Solo-Presenter:

Jonathan Bradshaw, CEO, The Meetology® Group

Do you work for a small organization or out of a home office? Don't let new technology pass you by! There are hundreds of low-cost or free tools now... More

Solo-Presenter:

Corbin Ball, Owner, Corbin Ball Associates

A generation ago, wildly popular "Choose Your Own Adventure" books allowed readers to determine their own fates in action adventure stories, based on decisions... More

Solo-Presenter:

Lynn Randall, Managing Partner, Randall Insights, LLC

Building international attendance is still one of the best ways to grow your meeting and boost your bottom line. Plus, a larger pool of international... More

Solo-Presenter:

Terrance Barkan, Founder & Chief Strategist, GLOBALSTRAT

The world is changing and the average target listener/audience now expects a much higher level of communication skill. As a result, today’s executives... More

Solo-Presenter:

Emily Turner, Vice President, Spaeth Communications

Are you waiting for the economy to fix your trade show? The experts say "Good luck with that!" Truth is, you can grow your event in a transition economy...you... More

Solo-Presenter:

Francis Friedman, President, Time & Place Strategies, Inc

How do you beat out your rivals in this chaotic and competitive 21st century? You've got to create a culture where employees trust each other, learn... More

Solo-Presenter:

Karla Brandau, CEO, Workplace Power Institute

Join this highly interactive session where everyone will take part in roundtable discussions to negotiate and modify a simulated contract, which unfortunately... More

Co-Presenters:

Naomi Angel, Attorney and Partner, Howe & Hutton, Ltd.

Bob Pederson, Owner, Power Meetings & Events

Solo-Presenter:

Mark Smith, Sales Project Manager, Technology Solutions, Freeman

Co-Presenters:

Godwin-Charles Ogbeide, Associate Professor, University of Arkansas

George Fenich, Professor - School of Hospitality Leadership, East Carolina University

Solo-Presenter:

Joan Eisenstodt, Chief Strategist , Eisenstodt Associates, LLC

Solo-Presenter:

Dahlia El Gazzar, Founder, Dahlia+

Level 2, Halls WA4/WB1 and Level 3, Meeting Room FoyersLevel

Solo-Presenter:

Kirsten Olean, Director Of Meetings, Association of American Medical Colleges

Co-Presenters:

Michael Owen, CEO/Managing Partner, EventGenuity, LLC

MaryAnne Bobrow, President, Bobrow & Associates, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Kristin Howard, Meeting Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Co-Presenters:

Germaine Schaefer, Director, Convention Operations, American Diabetes Association

Ronald Olejko, Senior Director, Meeting Services, American College of Rheumatology

Solo-Presenter:

Jordan Schwartz, CEO, Pathable, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Katherine Manfredi, Senior Director, Strategic Event Management & CSR, Conference Partners, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Samantha Shaw, National Sales Manager, Allied PRA

Solo-Presenter:

Trevor Roald, Mobile Event Technology Evangelist, QuickMobile Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Roger Rickard, President, Chief Advocate, Revent - Voices In Advocacy

Co-Presenters:

Roger Lewis, Vice President, Alliance Tech, Inc.

Robin Preston, Asst. Executive Director, Conferences, Exhibits & Sponsorships, National School Boards Association

Solo-Presenter:

Steven Short, VP Interactive Services, PSAV Presentation Services

Wondering what non-traditional education formats your peers are using? Maybe you've tried a different format you'd like to share? In this Peer2Peer Idea... More

Facilitator:

Tahira Endean, Director, Creative and Production, Cantrav Services

Co-Presenters:

Joan Eisenstodt, Chief Strategist , Eisenstodt Associates, LLC

Bonnie Wallsh, Chief Strategist, Bonnie Wallsh Associates, LLC

You've made the decision to add a digital extension to your event....now get the know-how you need to make sure it's effective. In this session, examine... More

Co-Presenters:

Pamela Ballinger, Vice President of Meetings and Exhibits, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Michael Doyle, Executive Director, Virtual Edge Institute

Lynn Randall, Managing Partner, Randall Insights, LLC

Patrick Andrus, Director of Business Development,

Taking place in our innovative Corporate HQ environment, this session is not only for corporate planners, but for all who are interested in learning more... More

Solo-Presenter:

Linda (Lennie) Scott-Webber, Director Education Environments, Steelcase Education Solutions

What does the latest in music, movies, retail, museums and the Internet have to do with your events? Plenty! Find out how to incorporate trends from... More

Solo-Presenter:

Mike McCauley, Vice President - Creative Director, Freeman

The buzz is all about building online communities to engage attendees throughout the year. But who takes the lead? And what channels and tactics are best?... More

Co-Presenters:

John Pollard, Event Services Program Director, Sonic Foundry

Kristin Zurovitch, Director of Marketing, Sonic Foundry

Just because no one calculates your trade show's size in terms of "miles of aisles" doesn't mean it can't have a big impact. Join planners of small to... More

Co-Presenters:

Jennifer Sombar, Director, Travel & Event Management, CFA Institute

Lauren Miller, Senior Manager, Conferences and Meeting Services, American Society of Civil Engineers

Caroline Wilsey, Director of Catering & Conference Management, Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando

Think that SMM is only for the largest of corporations? After this session, you'll want to think again. Corporate attendees who work in regional or mid-sized... More

Co-Presenters:

Kimberly Meyer, Founder, Meetings Analytics

Cari Cas Strouse, Meetings, Events, & Tradeshows Director, CH2M Hill

Erin Stahowiak, Project Manager, Meetings and Events, McDonald's Corporation

Graduation is looming and so is your quest to find the right job in our industry. You have begun the process of getting a leg up in achieving your goal... More

Co-Presenters:

Lesley Kyle, President, Open Mind Works, Inc.

Dawn Penfold, President , Meetingjobs, LLC

At that crucial moment - when it's most important to be convincing - nine out of 10 times we miss the mark. Join Oren Klaff, author of Pitch Anything:... More

Solo-Presenter:

Oren Klaff, Founder, Pitch Mastery

It may be easy to dwell on the past, but everyone will be much more successful when they focus on the future! Especially in turbulent times, tremendous... More

Solo-Presenter:

Joanne Smikle, Principal Consultant, Smikle Training Services

Soon after Sage North America came to terms with "gut-wrenching" data that they were no longer meeting the needs of their 4,000 attendees, the company... More

Co-Presenters:

Danielle Cote, Vice President, Event Marketing, Sage North America

Sarah Michel, VP of Professional Connexity, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Heard some buzz about Brazil but don't know where to begin? A local representative and a meeting planner with experience there will walk you through the... More

Co-Presenters:

Miguel Assis, Managing Director for Brazil, Events by TLC

Jeremy Luski, Director of Event Operations & Registration Services, UBM Global Trade

Regardless of your position within your organization, a clear understanding of financial reports and accounting terminology is essential to success. And,... More

Solo-Presenter:

Gene Siciliano, President, Western Management Associates

Are you asking yourself how one person can plan, manage and execute great meetings and events...while also working closely with executive leadership to... More

Panelists:

Amanda Marijanovic, VP Strategic & Creative Development, Source Line Inc.

Tom Browning, Executive Producer, FedEx Corporation

Flavio Martinez, Associate Regional Vice President, HelmsBriscoe

Eric Smith, Manager, Global Meetings & Events, Nike, Inc.

Moderator:

Greg Bogue, Experience Architect, Maritz Travel Company

Solo-Presenter:

Roger Rickard, President, Chief Advocate, Revent - Voices In Advocacy

Solo-Presenter:

Ushma Suvarnakar, Meetings Manager, American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists

Solo-Presenter:

Jordan Schwartz, CEO, Pathable, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Monique Montoya, Program Manager, Convention Industry Council

Solo-Presenter:

Stormi Boyd, Senior Events & Convention Manager, Keller Williams Realty International

Solo-Presenter:

Silke Fleischer, CEO, Co-Founder - EventPilot Conference App, ATIV Software

Solo-Presenter:

Larissa Schultz, Owner/Founder, LJS Meeting Strategies

:

Jeremy Luski, Director of Event Operations & Registration Services, UBM Global Trade

This is not your traditional luncheon – after all, this is Convening Leaders and you expect the unexpected. While there will still be an abundance of food,... More

Solo-Presenter:

Roger Lewis, Vice President, Alliance Tech, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Ray Kopcinski, Director, Meeting Services, Million Dollar Round Table

Solo-Presenter:

Andrea Sullivan, President, BrainStrength Systems

Co-Presenters:

Terence Donnelly, Vice President Sales & Account Management, Experient

Erin Dunstan, Director, Strategic Accounts, Experient

Wayne Crawford, Vice President of Sales, a2z Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Amy Spatrisano, Principal, MeetGreen®

Solo-Presenter:

Izania Downie, Director Strategic Partnerships, ACTIVE Network Business Solutions

Solo-Presenter:

Bob Vaez, President, EventMobi

Co-Presenters:

Scott Harold, VP, Digital Media, Ascend Integrated Media

Rhonda Wickham, VP of Content, Ascend Integrated Media

Solo-Presenter:

Donna Kastner, Director, Education & Engagement, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Solo-Presenter:

Jessica Levin, CEO, Seven Degrees Communications

Co-Presenters:

Kati Quigley, Sr. Director, WW Partner Community Events, Microsoft Corporation

Michael Brennan, Creative Director, Freeman

Solo-Presenter:

Amy Spatrisano, Principal, MeetGreen®

Solo-Presenter:

Andrea Sullivan, President, BrainStrength Systems

Solo-Presenter:

Roger Lewis, Vice President, Alliance Tech, Inc.

Co-Presenters:

Terence Donnelly, Vice President Sales & Account Management, Experient

Erin Dunstan, Director, Strategic Accounts, Experient

Wayne Crawford, Vice President of Sales, a2z Inc.

Co-Presenters:

Kelley Butler, Director, Meetings & Events, McDonald's Corporation

Anne Houghton, VP Creative,

Solo-Presenter:

Bob Vaez, President, EventMobi

Co-Presenters:

Scott Harold, VP, Digital Media, Ascend Integrated Media

Rhonda Wickham, VP of Content, Ascend Integrated Media

Solo-Presenter:

Jessica Levin, CEO, Seven Degrees Communications

Co-Presenters:

John Buckley, Director, Meeting Services, Infectious Diseases Society of America

Anita Bota, Senior Account Executive, NexxtShow

Solo-Presenter:

Donna Kastner, Director, Education & Engagement, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

The world economy is still global but it's not synchronized anymore. The cost of the "Great Recession" has been fragmentation: some countries are in recession,... More

Solo-Presenter:

Stéphane Garelli, Director, World Competitiveness Center, International Institute for Management Development

Find out what the PCMA Education Foundation uncovered in its in-depth investigation into the future of conventions and trade shows. Delve into the feedback... More

Solo-Presenter:

Francis Friedman, President, Time & Place Strategies, Inc

Join us in advance of Gina Rudan's Wednesday-morning Masters Series program on "Practical Genius: How to Put Your Personal Power to Work for You" for a... More

Co-Presenters:

Gina Rudan, President, Genuine Insights, Inc.

Christopher Durso, Executive Editor, Convene, Professional Convention Management Association

Now's a great time to earn the badge of excellence in the convention and meetings industry – CMP&reg certification. Learn about exciting changes to the... More

Solo-Presenter:

Monique Montoya, Program Manager, Convention Industry Council

Welcome to your very own experimental meetings laboratory! Rotate through four participatory exercises and room sets to experience firsthand exciting... More

Solo-Presenter:

Jeff Hurt, EVP, Education & Engagement, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Meetings contribute more than 35% of the revenue and profit for most organizations, but rarely receive their fair share of investment when it comes to... More

Co-Presenters:

David Lutz, Managing Director, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Karen Malone, Vice President , HIMSS

Angela Carr, VP, Professional Services,

Mentoring has traditionally been viewed as a one-sided proposition...helping new professionals learn the ropes. However, a good mentoring partner or program... More

Co-Presenters:

Amanda Cecil, Associate Professor & Program Director, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Julie Ann Schmidt, President, Lithium Logistics Group

Want to understand how current and future business and trade flows impact global meetings? Join us for a macro look at the world economy and where trade... More

Solo-Presenter:

Terrance Barkan, Founder & Chief Strategist, GLOBALSTRAT

Are you one of the many event producers that needs to make a profit from your online events? Or would you say the bottom line of your hybrid and virtual... More

Panelists:

Danielle Belmont, Senior Online Events Manager, BNP Media

Steve Williams, Director, E-Media Innovation & Business Development, Society for Human Resource Management

James Parker, President, Digitell, Inc.

Moderator:

Michael Doyle, Executive Director, Virtual Edge Institute

In a nod to this season's political debates, join us for three moderated showdowns delving into some of housing's burning issues of the day. Each debate... More

Moderator:

Rose Dubrovich, Senior Vice President Sales, onPeak

Panelists:

Paula Schneider, Director of Meetings & Conventions, American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery

Anne Stewart, Director of Delegate Services, Committee on Arrangements for the 2012 Republican National Convention

Eric Janecke, Area Director of Sales & Marketing, Hilton Sales Complex - New Orleans

Julie Scuras, Key Account Director, Association Group Sales, IHG - InterContinental Hotels Group

Angie Ranalli, Vice President of Sales, Midwest, San Diego Tourism Authority

Christine Klein, Vice President, Meetings & Business Partnerships, Institute of Food Technologists

Rose Horcher, Vice President, Client Services, Choose Chicago

Gail Mutnik, Director of Meetings , American Association for Clinical Chemistry, Inc.

Sharon Collins, Strategic Meeting Partner, American Cancer Society

Jeanne Elipani, Project Manager,

Kim Althoff, Director, Conventions & Meetings, ISSA

Elizabeth Ellis, Executive Director Convention & Exposition, National Electrical Contractors Association

Facilitator:

Kevin Panetta, Regional Vice President, Sales, onPeak

You want your attendees to get the most out of their meeting experience with delicious, nutritious and brain-friendly foods, right? But budgets and skeptical... More

Co-Presenters:

Tahira Endean, Director, Creative and Production, Cantrav Services

Andrea Sullivan, President, BrainStrength Systems

James Katurakes, Executive Chef, Centerplate Catering

Want to elevate your role at your organization? Then elevate the perceived business impact of your meetings and events. We'll start by discussing practical... More

Solo-Presenter:

Terri Breining, Principal, Breining Group LLC

Wanted: Someone who possesses stellar planning skills, but is open to spontaneous flexibility...... Thrives in a team setting.....Creative, yet grounded... More

Solo-Presenter:

Izzy Gesell, Organizational Alchemist, IzzyG & Company

To Grow or Not To Grow....that is the question for many independent planners flying solo or with small shops. In this session, you'll learn how to survive... More

Solo-Presenter:

Nancy Morrell Swanson, President, Global Marketing Services

Every individual and organization has enormous potential to change and improve innovation dramatically, given enough time and resources. In this competitive... More

Solo-Presenter:

Wayne Burkan, President, Alternative Visions, Inc.

For more information or to request an invitation contact Michelle Stoddard Crowley at mcrowley@pcma.org.

Thrills and spills abound on jaw-dropping rides and attractions accompanied by music, food and fun, fit for the stars, around every corner. Capping the... More

Solo-Presenter:

Shannon Fagan, Senior Meeting/Exhibit Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Jennifer Sombar, Director, Travel & Event Management, CFA Institute

Solo-Presenter:

Larissa Schultz, Owner/Founder, LJS Meeting Strategies

Solo-Presenter:

Tahira Endean, Director, Creative and Production, Cantrav Services

Convene with PCMA Staff, Board of Directors and PCMA Education Foundation leadership for a candid conversation about the state of the organization and... More

Solo-Presenter:

Shannon Fagan, Senior Meeting/Exhibit Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Monique Montoya, Program Manager, Convention Industry Council

Solo-Presenter:

Jennifer Sombar, Director, Travel & Event Management, CFA Institute

Thomas Friedman, Pulitzer Prize winner, bestselling author and New York Times columnist, renowned for his direct reporting and sophisticated analysis of... More

Solo-Presenter:

Thomas Friedman, Foreign Affairs Columnist, The New York Times • Author, The World is Flat; That Used to Be Us, Royce Carlton, Inc

Level 2, Halls WA4/WB1 and Level 3, Meeting Room Foyers

Solo-Presenter:

Kathleen Edwards, President, the Learning Evangelist

Solo-Presenter:

Silke Fleischer, CEO, Co-Founder - EventPilot Conference App, ATIV Software

Solo-Presenter:

Janet Cooper, Director, Convention Operations , Radiological Society of North America

No matter whether your hybrid or virtual event is designed to educate members, launch a product or market an event, there are realistic ways to deliver... More

Panelists:

Scott Lum, Digital Marketing Manager, Events, Microsoft Corporation

Judit Slezak, Manager, On Demand Virtual Events, Society for Human Resource Management

Michelle Devitt, Manager, Marketing & Sales, Smart City

Moderator:

Michael Doyle, Executive Director, Virtual Edge Institute

The concept conundrum of genius is that it’s a quality—like creativity—magical, exclusive, elusive connotation. Most consider genius to be a gift. This... More

Solo-Presenter:

Gina Rudan, President, Genuine Insights, Inc.

PCMA is launching its own game during Convening Leaders. Join us for an informal conversation about the gaming experience at this year's meeting. We'll... More

Co-Presenters:

Kelly Peacy, Senior Vice President, Education & Meetings, Professional Convention Management Association

Mary Reynolds Kane, Senior Director, Experience Marketing, Professional Convention Management Association

If you don't have all the facts on indemnification and event specific insurance, you're putting yourself and your organization at risk. Join this panel... More

Panelists:

Kristalyn Loson, Associate, Venable LLP

Tom McDonough, President, Hays Affinity Group

Marianne Alejandro, Senior Vice President Insurance Services Division, Mesirow Financial

Moderator:

Donna Johnson, Strategic Account Director, Courtesy Associates

Some sales techniques are tried and true, but you've got to have the right salespeople, the right culture, and the right approach for the time and place.... More

Moderator:

Sam Lippman, President , Lippman Connects

Panelists:

Jason Stookey, Vice President Sales, National Association of Broadcasters

Wendy Loew, Group Show Director, Questex Media Group

Do you want to increase your organization's impact and influence while identifying new revenue sources? Through case studies and group exercises, you'll... More

Solo-Presenter:

Brendan McLoughlin, Chief Marketing Officer, Learner's Digest International

You can't control your speakers, but you can set them up to succeed! In this session, you'll get to experience first-hand the latest in designing dynamic... More

Co-Presenters:

Melinda Kendall, Vice President, Business Solutions, Freeman

Kimberly Lewis, Senior Vice President, Community Advancement and Conferences & Events, US Green Building Council

The Census numbers are in and the findings are startling and profound. One in three Americans is not White. Four states have “minority majority” populations.... More

Solo-Presenter:

Kelly McDonald, President, McDonald Marketing

Heard some buzz about India but don't know where to begin? A local representative and meeting planners from both the corporate and association side with... More

Co-Presenters:

Stuart Ruff, Director, Meetings, Exhibitions & Events, RIMS - The Risk Management Society

Jeremy Luski, Director of Event Operations & Registration Services, UBM Global Trade

Monimita Sarkar, Managing Director, KW Conferences Pvt Ltd

Everyone is inherently creative - you might just need to learn how to tap into your creative potential! Join Grammy and Emmy-nominated songwriter Billy... More

Solo-Presenter:

Billy Kirsch, President, Kidbilly Music - Team Building Through Song

What happens when you cross an education session with a legal clinic? This session! After a brief introduction, pick the legal topic you'd like to pursue... More

Co-Presenters:

Lisa Devlin, Attorney , Devlin Law Firm, P.C.

Naomi Angel, Attorney and Partner, Howe & Hutton, Ltd.

Barbara Dunn, Attorney and Partner , Howe & Hutton, Ltd.

Kelly Franklin Bagnall, Attorney , Dykema Gossett PLLC

Facilitator:

Izzy Gesell, Organizational Alchemist, IzzyG & Company

Don't miss the final session in the Corporate HQ, where we'll pull together everything we've learned and determine what's needed to put into action a best-in-class... More

Co-Presenters:

Terri Breining, Principal, Breining Group LLC

Greg Bogue, Experience Architect, Maritz Travel Company

Solo-Presenter:

Kristin Brammell, Meeting Manager, Association Headquarters, Inc.

Solo-Presenter:

Larissa Schultz, Owner/Founder, LJS Meeting Strategies

Solo-Presenter:

Kathleen Edwards, President, the Learning Evangelist

Solo-Presenter:

Bob Vaez, President, EventMobi

Solo-Presenter:

Kathleen Edwards, President, the Learning Evangelist

Solo-Presenter:

Dahlia El Gazzar, Founder, Dahlia+

Don’t leave early and miss the inspiring David Novak, bestselling author and Chairman and CEO of the world's largest restaurant company, Yum! Brands. The... More

Solo-Presenter:

David Novak, Chairman and CEO, Yum! Brands