Session Descriptions

Wednesday, 18 November

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. General Session 

A unified voice for global business events industry advocacy

COVID-19 has had an unprecedented impact on the global events industry, our workforce, and the communities that depend on the power of human connections. Across the events ecosystem, various coalitions, associations and initiatives are working diligently to ensure that our voices are unified and amplified by helping government officials understand the true impact events have on the global economy and on job creation and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. At the local level, we need to ensure that key decision makers fully understand the scope and impact that our events have it each community. We each have a role in ensuring that those outside of our industry understand this impact. With the tools, resources and guidance of the various advocacy efforts underway, we can help amplify our voices. 

Learning objectives

  • Gain a greater understanding of the global events industry advocacy initiatives and efforts currently underway, and their alignment to the Sustainable Development Goals
  • Learn how to access the tools and resources that you can customise and utilise in your own advocacy efforts
  • Access updated campaign and policy efforts for COVID Relief

Session track: General session

Speakers:

  • Aloysius Arlando, CEO, SingEx Holdings Pte Ltd, President SACEOS
  • Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO, Destination DC, National Chair, USTA
  • Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director/CEO, UFI
  • Brad Mayne, CVE, President and CEO, IAVM
  • Susan Robertson, CAE, President and CEO, ASAE
  • Chris Skeith, CEO, Association of Event Organisers
  • Sue Sung, Senior Vice President, Freeman Co
  • Moderator: Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX 

 

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Concurrent Breakout Sessions

Adapting for Impact: the transforming role of venues and CVBs during the pandemic

The global pandemic has resulted in call to action within our sector to take on a very different role within a destination's community. Large venues and convention and visitor bureaux in particular have evolved to being more involved in community planning and have established new partnerships with local governments and health authorities.

Learning objectives

  • Learn about social impact, and how venues and destinations are supporting communities in new roles

  • Be inspired by global case studies

  • Learn how CVBs are supporting their members and event organisers

Session track: Crisis

Speakers

  • Ana Carrazon, Sales and Project Manager Congresses, IFEMA FERIA DE MADRID 
  • Al V. Hutchison, President & CEO, Visit Baltimore
  • Genevieve Leclerc, CMP, CEO, Meet4Impact
  • Claire E. Smith, CMP, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Vancouver Convention Centre
  • Don Welsh, President and CEO, Destinations International
  • Moderator: Scott Beck, President and CEO, Destination Toronto

Maximising event impact through co-creation with your content partners

Today's event design process needs to be strategic, nimble and flexible. It requires a new level of collaboration between education and engagement partners to produce exceptional experiences. Join us to learn how event organisers, speaker bureaux and speakers are co-creating new delivery methods and content to meet attendee needs.

Learning objectives

 

  • Identify the key questions that need to be answered early in the event design process
  • Describe how to engage your bureau partners and speakers as co-creators to provide greater value and relevance for organisers, stakeholders and attendees
  • Compare trends and emerging issues impacting events around the world and discuss how collaboration can ensure organisers are responsive to the varying phases of recovery and other factors impacting the event experience

 

Session track: Leadership  

Speakers
  • Angie A. Aherns, CMP, VP Program & Event Operations, Leadercast
  • Stephanie D. Jones, CAE, CMP, DES, Senior Director, Conferences and Education, Water Environment Federation
  • Moderator: Nick Gold, Managing Director, Speakers Corner and International Association of Speakers Bureaus
     

Reskilling, upskilling and future proofing our industry

As we look to the recovery from the global pandemic, we know that event professionals will play an important part in rebuilding economies through new and innovative event models. These new models may require us to upskill or reskill as professionals. Join us to learn about the many opportunities to grow your knowledge from EIC Member Organisations. 

Learning objectives

  • Learn about certificates and certifications available for the events industry
  • Learn about financial support options for education through industry foundations
  • Learn about the skills needed to future proof our industry
Session track: Wellness

Speakers:
  • Mona Cotton, Chief Business Officer, PCMA
  • Cornelia M. Horner, CMP, Chief Operating Officer, American Land Title Association
  • Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., Vice President Learning Experiences, International Association of Exhibitions and Events
  • Juli Jones, Vice President, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International 
  • Anne Harper, Program and Operations Director, National Association for Catering and Events
  • Jessie States, CMP, CMM, Director, MPI Academy
  • Alaina Tobar, General Manager at PRA Northern California, President, Association of Destination Management Executives International
  • Moderator: Johnnie White, CEO & Executive Vice President, American Society of Appraisers

Thought leader panel: Now that you know better, how are you doing better? A framework for addressing systemic racism for the events industry

Join members of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and EIC's Centre for Sustainability and Social Impact for a discussion on inclusion, diversity, equity and allyship for a stronger and more welcoming events industry.
 

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the history of systemic racism, and how it has affected event professionals
  • Learn about to take meaningful steps to create more inclusive and diverse organisations, events, and industry
  • Understand the role of allies, and what everyone can do to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in events and the events industry
Session track: Social Impact

Speakers: 
  • Amanda Armstrong, CMP AVP, Meeting and Travel Departement, Enterprise Holdings 
  • Ashanti Bentil-Dhue, Co-Founder, Black in Events
  • Amy Calvert, CEO, Events Industry Council
  • Jason Dunn Sr. , Board Chairman, National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals
  • Melvin Tennant, II. MA, CAE, CEO, Meet Minneapolis
  • Paul Van Deventer, CEO, Meeting Professionals International
  • Moderator: Sheila Neal, CASE, Associate Director, Sales Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau 

 
 

Thought leader panel: Innovative meeting design for a resilient future

Intentionally designing meetings that are effective, engaging, and support a resilient future is vital for our industry's relevance. Join us for this thought leader discussion on creating exceptional events that support a more sustainable future.

Learning Objectives

 

  • Learn about foundational principles of intentional meeting design
  • Learn about the circular economy and how sustainability and nature can inform design
  • Understand the importance of integrating sustainability into your recovery strategies, and gain insight into Hannuwa - the new framework for regenerative event design.

Session track: Innovation

Speakers

  • Guy Bigwood, FIEMA, Managing Director, GDS-Movement 
  • Mark J. Cooper, CEO, IACC
  • Tahira Endean, CMP, DES, CED, BHM, Head of Events, SITE global
  • Naomi Tucker, CMP, HMCC, Account Director, Meetings & Incentives Worldwide; Founder, Planners on Purpose
  • Moderator: David Castaño, Business Development Manager, CE (moderator) 
 
 

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Campfire Sessions

Campfires are facilitated sessions with a specific focus area. Participants will be invited to join in conversations including deep dive sessions following breakout sessions, industry issue topics led by EIC's CMP Governance Commission, APEX Commission, and Sustainability and Social Impact Committee, a Faculty Lounge and food and beverage experiential sessions.

Meeting and Event Design Guidance from the EIC APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force campfire  

Join members of the EIC Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX) Commission to discuss revisions to APEX templates for event specifications guides, RFPs, and post-event reports that reflect changing communication needs post- COVID. 
 

In July 2020, EIC released new meeting and event design guidance for event professionals. Join this discussion with task force members to review the meeting and event design decision grid, the participant code of conduct, and communication considerations.

 Presenters
 

 

  • Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM, CASE, HIMCC, DES, Global General Manager for Latin America, Maritz Global Events
  • Mike Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer, Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI)
  • Kristin Horstman, Senior Director, Strategic Events, SalesForce
  • Allison Kinsley, CMM, CMP, CED, Chief Meeting Architect, Kinsley Meetings
  • David Kliman, CMM, President, The Kliman Group
  • Cathy Schlosberg, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing, PSAV

CMP campfire

Join the CMP Governance Commission to discuss the future of the CMP Programme (CMP Exclusive Session). 
 
  • Articulate the work of the CMP Commission is doing to expand the CMP credential and support CMPs during COVID-19
  • Discuss the plans for the future growth of the CMP credential
  • Outline the options for volunteer engagement with the CMP programme
Presenters
  • Cornelia M. Horner, CMP, Chief Operating Officer, American Land Title Association
  • Alisa D. Peters, CMP, CMM, Senior Global Event Strategist, Martiz Global Events
Engaging sponsors and partners in new event models

With many events using new delivery models, traditional sponsorship opportunities need to also evolve. Join us for a facilitated discussion on how events are creating greater value and meaningful connections for their sponsors and partners. 

​Learning objectives
  • Discuss how event organisers are reimagining sponsorship benefits and models
  • Learn about ways to help your sponsors make meaningful connections with your live or virtual audiences
  • Discuss the types of metrics that can be used to demonstrate impact for your sponsors or partners

Presenters:

  • Dan Kowitz, Founder and CEO, JSB Partnership Consultants
  • Stacey Goldberg, Collaborative Partner, JSB Partnership Consultants
 
Faculty lounge

This campfire is open to full-time and part-time faculty members. It's an open forum to chat about what's on your mind. 
 
  • Celebrate success and relationships in the current landscape of teaching in higher education in a pandemic setting
  • Share with your fellow faculty the challenges and struggles faced in the arena of pandemic - world teaching
  • Collaborate in an effort to provide best practices and celebrate wins in the higher-ed teaching realm of today
Presenter: Andrea S. Peterson, CMP, Faculty, Metropolitan State University of Denver


 
Future CMP campfire 

Are you interested in becoming a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)? Meet with EIC's CMP Governance Commission and staff to learn more about the programme and have your questions answered. 

​Learning objectives
  • Review the CMP eligibility guidelines
  • Discuss the elements of the exam content outline
  • Share the many options of preparation for the CMP Certification Examination
Presenters
  • Barbara Connell, CAE, CMP, Chief Executive officer, American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Chair of the CMP Governance Commission
  • Christine E. Faiman, CMP, Global Account Executive, Marriott International
 
Follow up campfire discussion: Now that you know better, how are you doing better? 

This campfire session is open to continue the conversation with industry peers on next steps for meaningful change in the events industry. It will be facilitated by members of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and EIC's Centre for Sustainability and Social Impact.

Presenter: Jason Dunn, Group Vice President of Diversity Sales and Inclusion, Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Chairman, National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals 
 
 
 
Sustainability and social impact campfire 
 
Join the members of the EIC Sustainability and social impact committee to discuss sustainability in a post-COVID world. 

 
Presenters: 
 
  • Gwendal Castellan, CEM, Manager, Sustainable Destination Development, Tourism Vancouver

  • Melinda Kendall

  • Ryanne Walters, LEED Green Associate and TRUE advisor, US Green Building Council

 
 
Wellness space

 

This session will explore why wellness is important especially at this time, what challenges with wellness you have and what daily or weekly practices serve you. Learn some basic tools you can easily incorporate in your daily life.

 
Presenter: Gayle MT Murphy, CEO, Global Green Events, Ltd.
5 Dimensions of wellbeing 

Wellbeing expands the view of wellness to cover more than the physical body, encompassing the person's mental and emotional state as well as their productivity and ability to perform at their peak capabilities. Maritz Global Events has developed the Maritz 5 Dimensions of WellBeing (TM) to guide their solution development and support services in bringing WellBeing to their clients for employee, customer, and event activations to support the whole person. The goal of 5 Dimensions of WellBeing is to provide a framework for business event professionals that guides them to maintain their own wellbeing journey as well as that of their event attendees. Join us for this session to learn about the 5 Dimensions and how they can help you both personally and professionally.

Learning objectives
 
  • Learn about WellBeing Resources from the EIC APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Taskforce
  • Learn about how to approach WellBeing comprehensively as a design principle into your in-person and digital events
  • Understand the role of duty of care in supporting our work force and event participants
Session track: Wellness
 
Speaker: Rachael M. Riggs, CMP, WellBeing Leader, Maritz Global Events
 
 
 
The virtual perspective: past, present, and future
 
Join Jordan Schwartz, CEO and co-founder of Pathable, Inc. and Andre Cholewinski, CMP, Sr. Director of Meetings and Business Partnerships at American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, as they dive into the world of virtual and explore the uprising of virtual events, the current value propositions of virtual event platforms, and virtual best practices for the future. 
 
Learning objectives
 
  • Articulate the value of virtual events
  • Define ways to make the most of virtual events
  • Access to real world examples and best practices around virtual events
Session track: Innovation
 
Speakers
 
  • Andre M. Cholewinski, CMP, Sr. Director of Meetings and Business Partnerships, American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
  • Jordan LK Schwartz, MS, CEO, Pathable, Inc. 
 
Starting with inclusion

Join us for this session to learn how to intentionally design your events to be welcoming and inclusive as a way of promoting diversity. 
 
Learning objectives
 
  • Define marginalization through the lenses of privilege
  • Understand the barriers presented by unconscious & implicit biases
  • Explore practical ways of making your digital and live events more inclusive
Session track: Social Impact
 
Speaker: Derrick M. Johnson II, CMP, DES, Director of Event Strategy & Chief Diversity Officer, Talley Management Group, Inc.
 
 

8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Keynote Session with Peter Sheahan 

Reimagining our value and impact

 

Having grown his own companies by accelerating growth and transformation for Apple, Chick-Fil-A, DaBeers, and AT&T, Peter believes that when leaders are true to their purposes, they gravitate towards doing work that mattes and solving higher-order problems. He has been a long-time participant and advocate of the global events industry and will draw on that insight in his presentation. Peter has authored 7 best-selling books including Matter, Flip and generation Y. 

 

 
Disruption creates an unprecedented opportunity to question assumptions, connect with your true value proposition, and elevate the impact of the work you do and the events you curate. Careers will be redefined and reimagined during this period through a journey of personal and professional transformation. Join Peter Scheahan for a case study rich, interactive discussion to guide your journey through the following three shifts: 
  • Tell yourself the Truth: Move from awareness of change to taking ownership for leading change
  • Unleash Ambition: Move from a burning platform of crisis to a burning ambition to lead your clients and partners into the future
  • Drive Alignment: Move from working hard in agreement to doing the hard work of alignment
Moderator: Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales at Marriott International 

Thursday, 19 November

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Keynote Session with Derreck Kayongo

What is Your New Story?

Keynote speaker, Derreck Kayongo, Former CEO of the Center for Civil and Human Rights, Social Entrepreneur, Global Soap Project Founder, and CNN Hero

Profound changes in the events industry and globally have caused most of us to pause and find renewed inspiration, for ourselves, in our work and for one another. Derreck Kayongo’s story was that of being a refugee and a victim of a horrific civil war. But through the power of introspection, he worked to change his story into one that could take advantage of the opportunities coming his way after he was relocated to the United States. Through the help of his sponsors in his new country, Derreck gained new insight on demographic shifts and the corporate social responsibility movement that led to the creation of the Global Soap Project. As a result of his transformation, Derreck’s new organisation helped save lives in over 92 countries around the world. His inspiring story and presentation will ask us to reflect on the new opportunities, truth or new purpose that a crisis or challenging situation gives us a chance to find.  In essence what is our new story? 

Learning objectives

  • Harness the Power of Observation to identify issues and solve challenges
  • Teach us how to find our truth and new purpose in the midst of crisis or challenging situations
  • Share how each of us can make an impact 
     

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Concurrent Breakout Sessions

Signature programme: Impact and Legacy of COVID-19 in the events industry

Join us for a real-time discussion on the collective action needed by the global community to build back better. The session will focus on three themes: (1) the current state of COVID-19; (2) the legacy impact of COVID-19 on industries; (3) understand the shifts in the economy as a result of COVID-19. 
 

Learning objectives

  •  Learn about sources for practical guidance for events, including from the WHO

  •  Hear from experts from  adjacent industries, including sports, fashion and others of how they are adapting

  • Understand the importance of collective consciousness for accelerating global recovery and re-affirming our commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goal

  • Learn about how our industry will adapt to support a re-imagined future, new ways to forge human connections, and lead by example

 
Speakers:
  • Maurio Barbeschi, Senior Adviser to the Executive Director, WHO Health Emergencies
  • Dr. Lucille Blumberg, Deputy Director of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, and Head of the Public Health Surveillance and Response Division, South Africa
  • Dr. Richard Budgett, International Olympic Committee Medical and Scientific Director
  • Amy Calvert, CEO, Events Industry Council
  • Michael Hopmeier, President of Unconventional Concepts
  • Heather Seasholtz, CMP, DES, Director, Americas Operations, Drug Information Association
  • Moderator: Mark Cooper, CEO, IACC

What are human rights and how are they relevant to the events industry? 

During this session learn the basics of human rights and child rights from a human rights expert and the resources created to consider human rights and child rights when planning an event. If you are a corporate event planner this is vital information for you.
 

Learning objectives

  • Learn what human rights are
  • Learn how human rights can be included in event sustainability and social impact standards
  • Learn how to use guidelines that consider human and child rights when planning an event
Session track: Social impact 
 
Speakers:
  • Lucy Amis, Human and Child Rights Specialist, UNICEF UK

  • Fiona Pelham, CEO, Positive Impact Events

  • Moderator: Desirée A. Knight, CAE, CMP Director Education & Meetings, AREMA 

 

The recipe for creating engaging online experiences

 
Virtual or online events must offer outstanding user experiences to stand out in a busy online marketplace. This session covers the core concepts involved in creating online experiences starting from the conceptual design, through the processes and systems that should be put in place and concluding with selecting the best tools for the job. This session is ideal for event professionals who are looking to apply their event planning skills in creating online or hybrid experiences that impress and deliver. 
 
 

Learning objectives

  • Have an understanding of different concepts that are possible with online experiences
  • Grasp some of the concepts and processes that make creating engaging online experiences possible
  • Get an overview of some of the best tools that help create amazing online experiences
 

Session track: Innovation

Speaker: Miguel R. Neves, CMP, DES, CEO, miguelseven.com
 

APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force: Work force resources

Join us to learn about work force resources curated by the APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force, including research supported by Meeting & Event Management Master's Program, L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. 
 

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the skills expected to be essential for event professionals
  • Learn about financial support options for event professionals
  • Learn about opportunities to upskill, reskill, and grow your network
Session track: Leadership
 
Speakers
  
  • Tony Lorenz, CMM, Founder, Headsail, LLC
  • Lori Pugh Marcum, CMP, CMM, CED, Head of Meeting Innovation, Meeting Professionals International
  • Johnnie White, MBA, CAE, CMP, CEO, Executive Vice President, ASA

Sustainable events: accelerating action on climate change

Events can play a critical role in addressing the climate crisis; when we bring people together, we have the opportunity to educate and inspire our participants to take action. There are also many practical and innovative ways of reducing, managing, and compensating for our event related carbon emissions. Learn from two climate reality trained events industry leaders about how to integrate climate action into your events.  

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the current state of the climate crisis
  • Learn practical ways to manage your live or digital event's carbon impact
  • Be inspired by examples of events that are champions for climate action
 
Speakers
  • Claudia Hullenaar, Founder, Sustained Impact
  • Jaime B. Nack, MPP, President, Three Squares, Inc. 
 

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Campfire Sessions

Partnerships Grounded in Trust: Guidance from the EIC APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force campfire


In 2020, EIC has released guidance for hotels, transportation service providers and destinations. Join us for a discussion focused on collaboration between event organisers and partners to support our industry's recovery.

Join members of the EIC Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX) Commission to discuss possible revisions to the EIC Glossary. 

Presenters: 

  • Amanda Armstrong, CMP A, ssistant Vice President, Global Meetings and Travel, Enterprise Holdings
  • Allison Kinsley, CMM, CMP, CED, Chief Meeting Architect, Kinsley Meetings
  • Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM, CASE, HMCC, DES – Global General Manager for Latin America, Maritz Global Events
  •  Kristin Horstman, Senior Director, Strategic Events, SalesForce
  • David Kliman, CMM, President, The Kliman Group

Deep dive discussion with the World Health Organization

Presenter: Maurizio Barbeschi, Senior Advisor to the Executive Director, WHO Health Emergencies
 

 

Food and beverage experiential: Vegan and vegetarian menus

Chef Murray Hall recently won the IACC Global Copper Skillet competition with an all vegan menu. Learn how to incorporate more vegetarian and vegan menus into your event menus.

  • Hear about delicious and sustainable vegan and vegetarian options to integrate into your event menus
  • Learn about substitutions to keep menus healthy and allergen friendly
  • Have your questions answered about vegan and vegetarian menu design
 
Presenter: Murray Hall, Executive Chef, BMO Financial Group Institute for Learning

 
Future CMP campfire 

Are you interested in becoming a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)? Meet with EIC's CMP Governance Commission and staff to learn more about the programme and have your questions answered. 
 
  • Review the CMP eligibility guidelines
  • Discuss the elements of the exam content outline
  • Share the many options of preparation for the CMP Certification Examination
     
Presenters
  • Christine E. Faiman, CMP, Global Account Executive, Marriott International
  • Alisa D. Peters, CMP, CMM, Senior Global Event Strategist, Maritz Global Events
  • Cornelia M. Horner, CMP, Chief Operating Officer, American Land Title Association
     
Social media meet up

Connect live (screen-to-screen) with fellow event professionals who you may know personally, or just (professionally) stalk on social media. 

Learning objectives
  • Discuss the opportunities and challenges of social media
  • Grow your online network by putting a face to a name or reconnecting with old friends
  • Learn about community-focused projects with fellow social media savvy peers
Presenter: Miguel R. Neves, CMP, DES, CEO, miguelseven.com

 
Sustainability and social impact campfire 
 

Join us for an open discussion on sustainability and social impact. We’ll explore different ideas for incorporating more sustainability into your event, how to include sustainability into your planning process and why creating an event with social impact could be your best event ever! Come prepared with questions and/or examples of what you’ve implemented that has worked and not worked. 

 
Learning objectives
  • To understand some basics around sustainability and social impact and how to include them in your event, including the issue of human trafficking and how it relates to our industry. 

  • To talk through examples of what has worked and not worked to help grow your knowledge and understanding

  • To learn from your peers, ask questions and participate in discussion
Presenter: Courtney J. Lohmann, CMP, Director, Corporate Social Responsibility, PRA Business Events
 
 
Wellness space 
 

This session will explore why wellness is important especially at this time, what challenges with wellness you have and what daily or weekly practices serve you. Learn some basic tools you can easily incorporate in your daily life.
 

Presenter: Gayle MT Murphy, CEO, Global Green Events Ltd  
 
 
 

CMP campfire

Join the CMP Governance Commission to discuss the future of the CMP Programme (CMP Exclusive Session). 
 
  • Articulate the work of the CMP Commission is doing to expand the CMP credential and support CMPs during COVID-19
  • Discuss the plans for the future growth of the CMP credential
  • Outline the options for volunteer engagement with the CMP programme
Presenters
 
  • Michelle Allgauer, CMP, CAE, CMM, Financial Services Institute
  • Rob Webb, MBA, CMP, Managing Director Conferences and Events, ASCD

 

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Concurrent Breakout Sessions

Conference innovation while traveling at warp speed

Change is a constant in our industry, but perhaps never with such intensity as we've seen in 2020. Learn how event professionals are rising to the opportunity.

Learning objectives
 

  • Consider quality filters for featuring valuable content that promotes connection and community
  • Explore design considerations that will best position your conference for high participation and value
  • Discuss and evaluate emerge business models for optimizing attendee and sponsor revenue 

 

Session track: Wellness

Speakers
  
  • David J. Lutz, CMP, Managing Director, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting
  • Sarah T. Michel, CSP, VP Professional Connexity, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Meeting room of the future

For the fifth year in a row, IACC is pleased to present a groupd-breaking report that combines research and insights into the top issues facing the global meetings and conference industry. The 2020 IACC Meeting Room of the Future© report brings together insights from meeting and conference venues, hotels and urban conference venues across 3 continents, as well as suppliers including global meeting space designers, architects, technology companies, furniture manufacturers and nutrition experts. The report was conducted to gain insights from global venue operators, industry experts and suppliers, with the goal of understanding how they are responding to the changing expectations and needs of meeting planners, as identified in last year's survey of venue operators. 

Session track: Innovation

Presenter: Mark Cooper, CEO, IACC 
  

Contracts and decision-making pre, during and post- COVID-19 

Prior to the onset of Covid-19, most meeting professionals and suppliers were focused on the economy and what impact that would have on event contracts, some of which were signed for 3-5 years hence and, while they contained Force Majeure and other protective clauses, they did nothing to anticipate the global pandemic we currently are living in.  Much speculation abounds on whether to cancel meetings or postpone them but if postponing, until when?  No one, not even the medical experts can answer that as this virus is so new and already mutating that most are saying it is not safe until there is a vaccine.

Join us as we compare and contrast the various aspects of contracting and decision-making pre, during and post-Covid-19 in an interactive discussion based on scenarios presented.

Learning objectives
 
  • Comprehend the various elements of contracts to make the right decisions for the good of your organization and/or event

  • Enhance your decision-making skills for improved contract negotiations in a post-COVID-19 world.

  • Interpret the changing dynamics and how to address the challenges posed by COVID 19 and in the immediate future.

Session track: Wellness

Speakers
 
  • MaryAnne P. Bobrow, CAE, CMP, CMM, President, Bobrow Associates, Inc. 
  • Jonathan T. Howe, JD, FASAE, Attorney at Law, Howe & Hutton, Ltd. 
     

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Concurrent Breakout Sessions
 

Meeting health safety and security: Little things add up

Meeting professionals know health, safety and security is important, but less than half actually have a meetings-specific crisis plan. Instead of staggering under the weight of creating a whole crisis preparedness program, why not focus on the little things? This session offers practical, timely, simple solutions that can be implemented immediately in your planning and management process--adding some key items to your RFP, asking a few extra questions during the site inspection, including specific contract language, and practical tips for on-site management.

Learning objectives

  • Review guidance from the EIC Risk Management Guidebook

  • Assess risk factors based on the unique attributes of meetings, the nature of the attendees, and world climate near the time of the meeting 

  • Mitigate economic, physical, and property risks through prudent negotiation and application of mitigation measures like contracts, insurance, and security


​Session track: Crisis
 
Speaker: Tyra L. Warner, PhD, Esq, CMP, Assistant Professor, College of Coastal Georgia


Designing Accessible Events

As event owners and designers, we create the environment in which our participants learn, share, and innovate. In doing so, we need to consider the perspectives and needs of all our potential participants to design events that are welcoming, inclusive and accessible.

Learning objectives

  • Learn about practical ways to improve accessibility in your events

  • Learn about principles of universal design

  • Learn how to design events that are welcoming for all


​Session track: Social Impact
 
 
Speakers
 
  • Vanesssa R. Gray, MHA, CMp, CHCP, Director, CME, Des Moines University
  • Samantha Evans, MBA, CAE, Accessibility Advocate and Certification Manager, International Association of Accessibility Professionals
  • Matthew Shapiro, Consultant, Lobbyist, and Public Speaker, 6 Wheels Consulting, LLC
  • Moderator: Joan Eisenstodt, Principal and Chief Strategist, Eisenstodt Associates, LLC 
 

Can sustainability and health and safety go hand in hand? 

In 2019, the events industry was making important leaps towards integrating sustainability into our operations. With greater awareness of the climate crisis, event organisers and suppliers were intentionally designing products and services to improve our climate impact. Fast forward to 2020, and our focus has shifted to improving the effectiveness, frequency and visibility of our health and safety practices. But what does this mean for sustainability? Join us for this thought leader panel to review how sustainability and health and safety can (and must) go hand in hand.

Learning objectives

  • Learn how event professionals are choosing sustainable materials and practices to deliver their health and safety programmes

  • Learn about EIC's Principles for Recovery that integrate the UN Sustainable Development Goals

  • Learn how event professionals are adapting waste management practices to consider attendee and worker safety while still meeting sustainability goals


​Session track: Sustainability
 
 
Speakers
 
  • H.S. (Vicki) Bedi, Director, PS Bedi & Co PVT LTD
  • Mac A. Campbell, CVP, CTA, Deputy Director, Baltimore Convention Center
  • Gwendal Castellan, CEM, Manager, Sustainable Destination Development, Tourism Vancouver
  • Inge Huijbrechts, Global Sr. Vice President Responsible Business and Safety & Security, Radisson Hotel Group
  • Amanda Simons, MA, Principal, Honeycomb Strategies
  • Ben Wielgus, Head of Sustainability, Informa plc
  • Moderator: Ana Maria Viscacillas, MBA, CDME, President & Chief Visionary, Business Tourism Services
     

The platform is just the stage - What you REALLY need to know to have a virtual event 

In 2019, the events industry was making important leaps towards integrating sustainability into our operations. With greater awareness of the climate crisis, event organisers and suppliers were intentially designing products and services to improve our climate impact. Fast forward to 2020, and our focus has shifted to improving the effectiveness, frequency and visibility of our health and safety practices. But what does this mean for sustainability? Join us for this thought leader panel to review how sustainability and health and safety can (and must) go hand in hand.

Learning objectives

  • Learn how event professionals are choosing sustainable materials and practices to deliver their health and safety programmes

  • Learn about EIC's Principles for Recovery that integrate the UN Sustainable Development Goals

  • Learn how event professionals are adapting waste management practices to consider attendee and worker safety while still meeting sustainability goals


​Session track: Innovation
 
Speakers
 
  • Beth J. Surmont, CMP, CAE, Director of Experience Design, 360 Live Media 
  • Brooke Wilson, CMP, Managing Director, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting
     

Friday, 20 November

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. - Keynote Session with Janet Stovall

Getting serious about Inclusion

Keynote speaker, Janet Stovall, Manager of Executive Communications, UPS; One of the few FORTUNE 500 Executive Speechwriters of Color 

Imagine a workplace where people of all colors and races are able to climb every rung of the corporate ladder — and where the lessons we learn about diversity at work actually transform the things we do, think and say outside the office. How do we get there?

UPS's Janet Stovall has developed a business approach that addresses corporate racism head-on — and has created methods to help dismantle it. In her role as manager of executive communications for UPS, Stovall serves as primary speechwriter for the CEO and senior leadership, making her one of the few executive speechwriters of color in the FORTUNE 500. She is uniquely adept at developing diversity and inclusion messages – and helping leaders deliver them authentically.

A popular speaker and workshop facilitator, Janet champions Pragmatic Diversity©, a frank business approach that tackles head-on systemic racism, corporate diversity, inclusion and belonging and provides straightforward solutions to dismantle it. Her TED talk challenging business to get serious about inclusion has been viewed over 1.5 million times. In this candid talk, Janet shares an action plan for creating workplaces where people feel safe and expected to be their unassimilated, authentic selves.

Learning objectives: 

  • Outline her proven formula for helping businesses tackle corporate racism
  • Share how to create a safe and inclusive workplace where people can be their authentic selves
  • Teach how lessons learned in a diverse workplace transform the things we do, think and say outside of work 

 

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Concurrent Breakout Sessions

Cyber security: Tackling industry vulnerabilities

Cyber risks are not new to the events industry, but are evolving as more events migrate to integrate more virtual and hybrid elements. In this session we will review these risks, practical ideas for improving security, and will discuss current data protection legislation.:

​Learning objectives

  • Learn about common practices that increase your event's cyber risks, and easy ways to improve your security
  • Hear about changes to data protection legislation, and how this affects event marketing and logistics
  • Understand how to identify, analyse and evaluate your risk management strategies 

​Session track: Crisis

​Presenter: Johnny D. Martinez, Head of Marketing & Business Development, Shocklogic 

It takes a village: Building your own powerful circle to be more successful and fulfilled 

Do you ever notice those people who have an incredible support system and wonder how they found so many quality mentors, sponsors, and advocates? In your winning moments and in your most challenging hours, what can make all the difference in your professional and personal life are the people who cheer you on, lift you up, advise you, and help open doors to new opportunities and connections. Learn how to branch out beyond your circle of influence and engage quality supporters, understand the importance of setting boundaries, and embrace the opportunity to build your own unique, custom-made circle.

Learning objectives: 

  • Understand the different roles supporters play in your tribe
  • Identify opportunities to branch out beyond your current circle of influence
  • Learn how to strategically engage the right supporters and set meaningful boundaries

Session track: Leadership

Speakers
  
  • Jenn S. Artura, Senior Director, Global Events  & Incentive Programs, Veritas Techologies, LLC
  • Norma Dominguez, Director, Regional Sales, Amstar DMC
  • Courtney R. Stanley, Keynote Speaker, Event Emcee & Career Coach, Courtney Stanley Consulting, LLC 

APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force: Destination Guidance 

Join us for the release of new guidance for destinations from the APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force. 

​Learning objectives

  • Learn about tools developed by destinations designed to assist event professionals safely plan meetings and events.
  • Learn about Key Questions DMOs and Event Organisers should ask to create effective and trusted partnerships.
  • Learn about resources to help planners and suppliers safely manage events.

​Session track: Risk Management 

​Presenters: 

  • Cleo Battle, Chief Operating Officer, Louisville Tourism
  • Jerry Cito, Executive Vice President, Convention Development, NYC & Co
  • David Kliman, CMM, President, The Kliman Group
  • Rhanee Palma, CDME, Chief Sales Officer, Visit Oakland
  • Brad Weaber, Principal, Brad Weaber Consulting Group, LLC
  • Moderator: Matthias Schultze, Managing Director, German Convention Bureau e.V.
     


 

The business case for sustainability: How brands are achieving greater success through sustainability

Purpose and prosperity are going hand in hand for many global brands. Learn how these organisations are reflecting their corporate values through their sustainability programmes. 

​Learning objectives

  • Learn how global brands are integrating sustainability into their business strategy
  • Learn the benefits of sustainability for engaging with your organisation's stakeholders
  • Learn how to effectively share your sustainability story

​Session track: Social Impact 

Speakers

  • Eugene N. Anderson, Sr. .Director Industry Relations & External Affairs, SUEZ
  • Kimberly Lewis, Senior Vice President, Market Transformation and Development, North America, U.S. Green Building Council
  • Yalmuz Siddiqui, MPhil, VP Corporate Sustainability, MGM Resorts International
  • Joe Rizzo, CSM, Director, Sustainability Auditing, BPA Worldwide/iCompli
  • Moderator: Kimberley Gishler, Executive Director, CEMA 

 

Creating new delivery models for learning and community engagement

The events industry's resilience and commitment to continuous transformation has never been more evident than in 2020. Event organisers, associations and corporations are reimagining ways to promote community engagement. Join us for this panel of event and community design innovators that are hurdling the physical barriers of COVID-19 to provide meaningful opportunities for human connections.

​Learning objectives

  • Hear how organisations are using this moment in time to defy expectations of how to create engaged communities
  • Learn about alternative event models that combine the best of in-person and digital experiences 
  • Understand how organisations are creating cltures that support continuous transformations to meet the needs of their stakeholders

​Session track: Innovation

Speakers

  • Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group
  • Terri Breinning, Principal, Breinning Group
  • Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM, CASE, HMCC, DES, Global General Manager for Latin America, Martitz Global Events
  • Michael Dominguez, President and CEO, Associated and Luxury Hotels International
  • Sheriff Karamat, CAE, Presdient & CEO, PCMA
  • David Peckinpaugh, President, Maritz Global Events
  • Moderator: Amy Calvert CEO, Events Industry Council

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Campfire Sessions

Guidance from the EIC APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force campfire

Join members the EIC APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force and the EIC APEX Commission for a review of existing guidance, and plans for upcoming resources to support our industry.

 

​Presenters

  • Mike Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer, Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI)
  • Kristin Horstman, Senior Director, Strategic Events, SalesForce
  • Allison Kinsley, CMM, CMP, CED, Founder and Chief Meeting Architect, Kinsley Meetings
  • David Kliman, CMM, President, The Kliman Group

CMP campfire

Join the CMP Governance Commission to discuss the future of the CMP Programme (CMP Exclusive Session). 

  • Articulate the work of the CMP Commission is doing to expand the CMP credential and support CMPs during COVID-19
  • Discuss the plans for the future growth of the CMP credential
  • Outline the options for volunteer engagement with the CMP programme
     

Presenters

  • Alisa D. Peters, CMP, CMM, Senior Global Event Strategist, Martiz Global Events
  • Christine E. Fairman, CMP, Global Account Executive, Marriott International

 

F&B experiential: Allergen- friendly menus

Join us for a conversation on creating menus and service styles that are allergen -friendly and safer in a post-COVID environment. 

Learning objectives

  • Review a catering menu with more discerning eye for hidden food allergens
  • Understand the need for asking food service partners about food safety
  • Chat with food service partners with greater confidence about food allergies 

Presenter: Tracy L. Stuckrath, CSEP, CMM, CFPM, CHC, President & Chief Connecting Officer, thrive! meetings and events

 

Future CMP campfire

Are you interested in becoming a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)? Meet with EIC's CMP Governance Commission and staff to learn more about the programme and have your questions answered. 
 

Learning objectives

  • Review the CMP eligibility guidelines
  • Discuss the elements of the exam content outline
  • Share the many options of preparation for the CMP Certification Examination

Presenters: 

  • Cornelia M. Horner, CMP, Chief Operating Officer, American Land Title Association
  • Leslie Jones, CAE, CMP, CTA, Manager, Conference Operations, AOTA 


Sustainability and innovation for better F&B experiences

If food waste were a country, it would be the 3rd largest emitter of greenhouse gases. In this campfire, we'll discuss practical ways of managing food waste, and inspiring your event attendees.

​Learning objectives

  • User technology to enhance F&B sustainability and experience
  • Explore food service innovations that support sustainability, safety, and human health
  • Discover the triple bottom line impacts of local sourcing

Presenters: 

  • Aurora Dawn D. Benton, Founder, Astrapto 
  • James Fritz, CMP, CPCE, Director of Meetings and Special Events, the Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

Wellness space

This session will explore why wellness is important especially at this time, what challenges with wellness you have and what daily or weekly practices serve you. Learn some basic tools you can easily incorporate in your daily life.

Presenter:  Gayle MT Murphy, CEO, Global Green Events Ltd. 


Sustainability and social impact campfire 

Join the members of the EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Committee to discuss alignment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
 

​Learning objectives

  • Understand the purpose of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 
  • Learn how to meaningfully align your event's strategic programs and goals to the SSDG Goal Targets
  • Learn what "SDG washing" is and how to avoid it 

Presenter: 

  • Claudia Hullenaar, Founder, Sustained Impact
  • Hannah Messenger, Global Event Strategist, UN SDG Action Campaign

 

The walk and talk on intentional design

In this session, you'll be asked to listen to an audio only podcast during the first 20 minutes and then return for a discussion with Tahira Endean, author of Intentional Event Design: Our Professional Opportunity. Participants are encouraged to leave their desks during the podcast portion.

​Learning objectives

  • Review basic learning principles that impact live and digital design (ie. the 11 minute rule)
  • Identify the value in movement for delivering effective learning. It is after all a walk and talk session!
  • Illustrate intentional design elements and their potential impact to peers and clients

Presenter: Tahira Endean, CMP, DES, CED, BHM, Head of Events, SITE Global
 

1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Closing Session

Closing session: EIC Hall of Leaders panel

Close out your EIC Advance by joining inductees to EIC’s Hall of Leaders to talk about their industry experience - in good and not so good times. Their insight can help us all leverage the past to reimagine our future.

​Learning objectives

  • Hear what inspires Hall of Leaders inductees about our industry
  • Learn about the future re-imagined, and how even in crisis, our industry is adapting to support our work force and the global economic recovery
  • Learn about the event industry's roles as a catalyst for social, environmental, and economic impact

​Session track: General session

​Speakers: 

  • Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group 
  • Terri Breinning, Principal, Breining Group
  • Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM, CASE, HMCC, DES, Executive Director, Maritz Global Events
  • David Peckinpaugh, President, Maritz Global Events
  • Michael Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer, Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI)
  • Moderator: Amy Calvert, CEO, Events Industry Council