Education Pillar
Harnessing collective power, inclusive leadership, and shared vision to shape what’s next.
Bringing Your Brand to Life Through Events
Speaker: Claire Lester, Sr. Design Studio Strategist, Maritz
Every event is a chance to express your brand authentically and memorably. Learn how to use brand archetypes to design experiences that reflect your brand’s core identity, attract the right attendees, and inspire meaningful engagement. Discover how to align storytelling, tone, and environment to build deeper connections and lasting audience loyalty.
The Innovation Mindset: How Senior Event Leaders Can Foster a Culture of Experimentation
Speakers: Leah Lewis, Senior Director, Education & Events, Motion + Power Manufacturers Alliance & Stephanie Santini, Vice President, Meetings, American Association of Airport Executives
In a rapidly evolving events world, playing it safe is no longer a strategy—it’s a risk. This session explores how senior leaders can foster innovation by empowering experimentation, embracing risk-taking, and shifting team mindsets. Learn how to dismantle “we’ve always done it this way” thinking, lead with vision and flexibility, and build cultures where bold ideas thrive.
Union Labor Unlocked: What Every Planner Needs to Know
Speaker: Carter Dunham, VP of Sales, PRG
Union labor can be one of the most complex parts of event production. This session demystifies how union jurisdictions, venue rules, and crew requirements affect your event—from planning to load-out. Learn how to anticipate labor needs, align budgets, and navigate local regulations confidently with expert insights from PRG and Philadelphia-based union specialists.
How to Equip Your Team for What’s Coming Next
Speaker: Kathryn Landis, Founder & CEO, Kathryn Landis Consulting, Adjunct Professor, NYU
Today’s teams face nonstop change and rising pressure to stay focused, effective, and resilient. In this high-impact session, executive coach and NYU professor Kathryn Landis shares proven frameworks to cut through friction, sharpen priorities, and accelerate execution—helping leaders drive clarity, collaboration, and results even in the face of constant change.
Business School: Leadership as a Marathon
Speaker: Meg Hancock, Associate Professor Department of Health & Sport Sciences, University of Louisville
In a world where leadership feels like a series of sprints, true impact comes from consistency, endurance, and intention. This session reframes leadership through the lens of marathon training, offering practical tools to plan, adapt, and sustain performance. Learn how pacing, discipline, and preparation fuel long-term success—on the course and in your career.
Unity Conversation Starters
Contract Confidential: Navigating the Fine Print
Let’s explore contract details and the nitty-gritty. We’ll share stories and strategies on negotiating terms, avoiding common pitfalls, and safeguarding our organizations. From force majeure clauses to attrition, we’ll discuss it all. Bring your most challenging contract questions, and let’s decipher them together.
Duration: 45 Minutes | Capacity: 30 People
Cultivating High-Performing Event Teams
How can you build and sustain a top-tier event team in a competitive job market? Explore strategies for attracting talent, fostering professional growth, and retaining team members. Discuss methods for promoting innovation, managing remote teams, and cultivating a positive team culture. Share experiences in handling generational differences and utilizing diverse skill sets within your team.
Duration: 45 Minutes | Capacity: 30 People
The Art of Attendee Acquisition
In a competitive landscape, how do you attract new participants while retaining your core audience? Share successful strategies for expanding your reach, leveraging data for targeted marketing, and creating compelling value propositions. Discuss the role of pricing strategies, early bird incentives, and referral programs in driving attendance growth.
Duration: 45 Minutes | Capacity: 30 People
The Great Divide: Bridging the Gap Between Leadership and Frontline Event Pros
This conversation explores the unique challenges and viewpoints of both leadership teams and hands-on event managers. We’ll discuss how to create better synergy between these groups, improve communication, and develop mentorship opportunities. Share your experiences and learn strategies to bridge the gap for more cohesive and effective event teams.
Duration: 45 Minutes | Capacity: 30 People