ESPA has been busy with many exciting things! I would first like to commend Michelle Moon, CMP, CTE, CPCE with Visit San Antonio and Amanda Fox, CMP with Visit Rochester for their hard work in planning and implementing our very first ESPA Leaders Retreat in Grapevine, Texas. Their goal was to have 15 ESPA leaders participate, and that goal was exceeded by five, for a grand total of 20 Event Services leaders in attendance. The retreat was such a success - with so many positive survey comments—that planning for next year's event has already started! Stay tuned, leaders, so you can mark your calendars and get this important program covered in your budgets.     
 
Another great program this year has been the Hotel and Convention Center virtual roundtables. ESPA leadership felt that we needed to bring our hotel members and convention center members together to allow more valuable networking and brainstorming time on everyday workplace issues. The next meeting for convention centers is August 6 at 1 p.m. and for hotels is October 8 at 1 p.m. so be sure to join in.       
 
Let’s all get ready for 2025 National Celebrate Services Week August 4-8! The theme this year is Together We Create: Honoring the Art of Event Services which embraces the creativity, passion and collaboration that we all bring to every event that we touch. We do this as event professionals in the workplace as well as bringing it into our communities. I am looking forward to seeing all the great photos, stories and videos that take place during our favorite week of the year!
 
In case you haven’t heard the exciting news - ESPA Connect is live! This platform is about keeping our members connected through sharing ideas and learning from one another throughout the year—not just at the conference. Please take advantage of this wonderful networking tool to stay connected with your ESPA friends and meet new ones along the way.
 
It truly is an honor to serve as your President alongside our dedicated Executive Board and Directors, all of whom share the same vision to foster an ESPA community that is professional, positive and diverse.
 
Thank you once again for your unwavering dedication to our Association and enjoy the rest of your summer!
 
Eric Logan, CMP
ESPA President

• Monthly Recognition Awards (e.g., “Awesome Award” or “Team MVP”)
• Gift Card Giveaways via games or raffles after meetings
• Birthday Shout-Outs with small gifts or cards
• Wellness Challenges like step competitions or hydration goals
• DEI Experiences such as cultural tours or guest speakers
• Custom Team Swag (e.g., branded jackets, track suits, or water bottles)
• Community Service Projects that build team spirit and give back
• Digital Shout-Out Boards or signage in back-of-house areas
• Peer-to-Peer Recognition Programs where staff nominate each other
• Surprise Treat Days (e.g., coffee carts, ice cream socials, or snack drops)
  
• Professional Development Opportunities like workshops or lunch-and-learns

Read Part 1 Here

It’s fascinating to see how different generations approach various aspects of life. Have you ever wondered how generational differences shape convention services? In this article, we will dive into six key questions that explore how each generation responds to these services, offering a unique perspective on event planning and execution.

Stephen Galeotalanza from the Massachusetts Convention Center identifies as a Boomer, Beth Butler from Visit Charlotte identifies as Generation X, and Kristen Lew from the Hilton Charlotte Uptown identifies as a Millennial. They have graciously agreed to participate, helping us explore the similarities and differences across generations when it comes to convention services.

Stephen Galeotalanza, CMP CEM
Senior Event Services Manager
Massachusetts Convention Center

Beth Butler                                            
Director of Destination Services 
Visit Charlotte   

Kristen Lew
Director of Event Services
Hilton Charlotte Uptown

We hope this insightful discussion will provide a deeper understanding of how generational perspectives influence the events industry.

Please note that AI was used to compare and contrast the answers.

Read on as we compare and contrast the evolving approaches in our industry, shedding light on what each generation brings to the event experience.

Question 4: What technological advancements do you think have had the biggest impact on the convention services industry?

Kristen: I think the virtual component has certainly help evolve the traditional meeting. It helped out tremendously when meetings and conventions were getting back up to speed after 2020.  Also, convention apps that replace the traditional convention program manual and allow for social interaction and networking at your fingertips.  On the hotel side, having boardrooms permanently set with technology such as large smart monitors with touch screen capabilities and video conferencing equipment help to create an elevated exercise for small meetings or VIPs.

Beth: Several technological advancements have been impactful for the services industry. A few of my favorites tools include Zoom, Mobile Apps, QR codes & data analytics. Zoom can be beneficial during all stages of the customer journey from event planning, live streaming and then post event recapping. Planners are exhausted after an event or meeting and zoom allows them to return home but still stay connected after they relax to provide valuable and personal feedback. Mobile apps have advanced with centralizing schedules, push notifications and provides real-time updates. Planners save money on printed schedules, promote sustainability and communication is enhanced, boosting engagement scores. We were slightly introduced to QR Codes back in 2013 but it didn’t stick. Since the pandemic, more people are comfortable with utilizing them now so I firmly believe they will be around much longer this time. Data analytics are so important since the meetings world was turned upside down. Post event data allows Planners and DMOs to work together more effectively, allowing sound decisions to be made based predictive analytics, heat mapping and ROI measurements. My opinion on AI  and how it works with the industry is still up in the air. Some tools are great, but I don’t think AI should replace people. We need people in certain roles, especially hospitality roles.

Stephen: "You know, there has been a lot of change since I started, because I'm older. We used to do a lot of things on paper, and seeing the shift from paper to everything being done online – from hotel reservations to event registrations – has been the biggest change. I also introduced a software at IVG, working with Active Networks, which allowed speakers to enter all their information directly. We then streamlined the approval process on the back end, automating processes and eliminating spreadsheets. That’s the best thing that’s ever happened to the industry because too many people were relying on spreadsheets, which led to too many errors. I think if we could automate that process or come up with a solution that bridges the gap between the planner and the venue in a more efficient way, it would be great."

Conclusion:

Each speaker’s perspective on technology reflects their generational values, with Kristen balancing tech with human connection, Beth integrating technology for efficiency while preserving human roles, and Stephen pushing for greater automation and AI integration to improve the industry’s operations.

Question 5: What skills do you think are most important for convention managers to have today, regardless of age?

Kristen: Organization is key. Having the ability to compartmentalize different groups in your head and recall important pieces of information. A great memory also comes in handy. Ability to build relationships and gaining trust & respect is important. Also know how to stay flexible.

Beth: Regardless of age, if you want to succeed in the hospitality and tourism industry, you need to have a blend of hard and soft skills. Excellent customer service and experience is top of the list. Strong verbal and written communication along with active listening skills is a must. If you aren’t born with empathy and patience, you must acquire it quickly. Team work and collaboration are also important and quick decision making because the job often requires you to address challenges (over-booked hotels, medical situations, transportation not showing up on time due to traffic or security concerns). One must be flexible and adaptable – nothing seldom goes as planned but luckily, only you and the planner really know what was suppose to happen. Having the general idea of budgeting and financial management is valuable.

Stephen: Number one, you need to be professional. I think it's important to listen to your client and understand what they are trying to say. Instead of just saying no, try to find solutions. Everyone needs good listening skills to hear what the client is trying to accomplish. You may not be able to fulfill their exact request due to rules and regulations, but what you can do is listen to what they’re trying to implement and say, 'Okay, based on this, here are two or three solutions that we can provide to make it happen.' It may not be perfect, but it gets them to their end goal. So, I think listening to the client, communicating effectively with them, and being detail-oriented are all extremely important

Conclusion:
Kristen’s approach is grounded in organization and memory, while Beth emphasizes customer service, problem-solving, and team collaboration. Stephen focuses on the human side of communication, stressing active listening and offering solutions to meet clients' goals. All three agree on the importance of flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. While Kristen and Stephen emphasize direct client interaction, Beth provides a broader, more holistic approach that includes team dynamics and financial understanding.

Question 6: How do you relax after a meeting?

Stephen: I spend time with family, I read, exercise, and sleep

Beth: I’m not sure there is ever time for relaxation after a meeting since I’m always working on the next one but a nice day off, spent with family is fun. A bonus treat would be a pedicure or facial!

Kristen: Either take a Yoga class or head home to relax with a nice adult beverage! I’ve also been known to go home, get in the zone (cue “What Baking Can Do” from Waitress the musical), and whip up a batch of cupcakes!

Conclusion:
Stephen, Beth, and Kristen all highlight the importance of family in their relaxation routines, but their methods differ based on generational perspectives. Stephen's approach is grounded in simple, health-focused activities, while Beth emphasizes self-care rituals and family time, showing a more contemporary approach to balance. Kristen’s routine is unique, blending mindfulness, creativity, and relaxation, reflecting a shift towards holistic wellness and personal expression. These differences reflect how relaxation practices have evolved across generations, from simple, physical well-being to more complex, individualized ways of unwinding.

Conclusion: Generational Insights in the Event Industry

It’s been fascinating to hear from Stephen, Beth, and Kristen about their unique perspectives on the event industry. From their career paths to communication styles, tech use, and how they unwind after a busy day, it’s clear that each generation brings something valuable to the table.

Stephen’s all about tech – he’s focused on efficiency and automation to make things run smoother. Beth, with her years of experience, emphasizes the importance of personalization and creating memorable experiences. Kristen, on the other hand, balances technology with that human connection, making sure both are at the heart of great events.

What stands out across the board is the value they place on flexibility, adaptability, and strong relationships with clients and colleagues. Whether it’s embracing new tech, improving communication, or just taking the time to recharge, these event pros show us how different approaches can complement each other to create amazing experiences.

As the industry continues to evolve, blending the best of both worlds – tech and personal touch – will be key. We’re excited to see how future generations will keep shaping events, making them more engaging, impactful, and seamless than ever.

Please note that AI was used to compare and contrast the answers.

It’s fascinating to see how different generations approach various aspects of life. Have you ever wondered how generational differences shape convention services? In this article, we will dive into six key questions that explore how each generation responds to these services, offering a unique perspective on event planning and execution.

Stephen Galeotalanza from the Massachusetts Convention Center identifies as a Boomer, Beth Butler from Visit Charlotte identifies as Generation X, and Kristen Lew from the Hilton Charlotte Uptown identifies as a Millennial. They have graciously agreed to participate, helping us explore the similarities and differences across generations when it comes to convention services.

Stephen Galeotalanza, CMP CEM
Senior Event Services Manager
Massachusetts Convention Center

Beth Butler                                           
Director of Destination Services 
Visit Charlotte   

Kristen Lew
Director of Event Services
Hilton Charlotte Uptown

We hope this insightful discussion will provide a deeper understanding of how generational perspectives influence the events industry.

Please note that AI was used to compare and contrast the answers.

Read on as we compare and contrast the evolving approaches in our industry, shedding light on what each generation brings to the event experience.

Question 1: How did you get into the meetings industry?

Stephen: I graduated from Emerson College with a degree in Communications. After college, I started looking for a job, so I began temping. My first temp job was at Rogal America, where I handled hotel reservations for Mary Kay and the Firemen's Association events. After that, I moved on to another temp job at the Interface Group, which worked with the Comdex brand. From that point on, I was hooked—I loved everything about events: the travel, the excitement, and the planning. I worked in the housing and registration department and worked my way up.

When that company closed, I went to Dun & Bradstreet and worked on their road shows, then moved on to Governing Magazine where I worked on their events. After that, my old boss called me to join IVG World Expo, which later became Dollher Events. I worked there until COVID hit, and unfortunately, Dollher Events folded. During my time there, I worked on various events, such as E3, MA Expo, Women’s BlogHer, and a food event. I also worked on Silicon Valley Comic-Con, so I got experience in both B2B and consumer events.

When I was looking for new opportunities, I found a position at the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, where I currently work.

Beth: Graduating from East Carolina University’s hospitality management program, I interned at the Hilton Charlotte Uptown’s housekeeping department and learned the operations of a hotel. Moving into the convention services role at the hotel, exposed me to meetings and events, allowing me to engage with the convention & visitor’s bureau for site visits for future definite meetings for planning purposes. After a few years, I transitioned to the cvb world, Visit Charlotte as a convention services manager.  Upon retirement of my boss, it allowed me growth as a director of the department. I’ve been with Visit Charlotte for 19 years.

Kristen: I majored in Hospitality and Tourism Management and then took off working various roles in the industry all over the country (Housekeeping on a Cruise Line, Wedding Planning at a prominent Vegas Hotel , Baking & Pastry at Disney). After my detour in Baking & Pastry Arts, an opportunity for an Executive Meeting Manager position opened up at my current property where I was working in the kitchen. I found myself wanting to go back to the sales/events side of the hotel and was hired to take on the EMM role.  From there I transitioned solely into an event manager, making senior manager and eventually becoming a director.

While all three speakers have extensive experience in the event industry, their career paths reflect different generational approaches to professional growth. Stephen embraces the technological shift in the industry, reflecting how digital tools are integral to younger generations' expectations. Beth represents a longer, more stable career trajectory, but also acknowledges the need to adapt to the digital, data-driven future of the industry. Kristen shows the value placed by Gen Z and Millennials on diverse career experiences and flexibility, a contrast to more traditional, linear career paths. Across all three, there is a common thread of adapting to generational changes, particularly the growing role of technology in event planning and management.

Question 2: How do you prefer to communicate with clients, vendors, and colleagues (e.g., email, phone calls, text, social media, project management tools)?

Stephen: I do a mixture of both. I like to send an introductory email to introduce myself, and I also prefer to communicate by phone, especially when we’re finding things hard to sort out through email. Depending on the client’s age and communication preferences, having a phone call and talking things through can be more productive than going back and forth with ten or fifteen emails. When I'm on-site with the client, I also set up a group text message for any issues that might arise. I like to check in with my clients regularly to ensure everything is going smoothly for them. I find that talking to the client is the best way to build a relationship, rather than relying only on texts. This allows you to understand each other's communication styles better

Beth: I can utilize any means of communication and usually lean on the customer to advise first what their preferred method of communication is. A voice conversation is sometimes nice as an introduction with follow up in an email. I do love email though. Emails are great for sharing important dates, tasks, comments and then just the paper trail to go back to as a reference. Communication methods with colleagues can be text, Teams chat or emails. When working in the office, I love a face to face conversation. It allows for me to be myself, organic and usually generates ideation for new ideas of quick solutions to problems.

Kristen: Clients – I prefer to communicate mostly through email.  I do enjoy a good phone conversation as you can uncover more detail and get to know your clients better, however having important details in writing can really save you! Once a client is on-site, text messages can work well to communicate in a timely manner.

Vendors – A good mix- with the vendors you know a simple email works great, but for new venders it’s good to start out with more phone conversations to build the relationship. 

Colleagues – Good in-person work conversations are a great way to relay information and talk through any challenges that need to be discussed. Plus, it’s important to build & keep up rapport with your colleagues as positive relationships at work can contribute to an enjoyable work experience.  Sometimes fellow co-workers are too busy running around that a face to face convo is best to ensure you have their attention. It is then important to follow-up in writing via email and other in-house communication tools (BEOs, 11-Day, Hotel Resumes) to ensure items are acted upon.   We also used Teams to communicate interdepartmentally which is a great way for those time sensitive needs.

While all three speakers value effective communication, their methods reflect generational shifts. Stephen leans toward traditional communication methods like phone calls to build client relationships, while Kristen blends traditional and modern methods, using both email and phone conversations. Beth takes an adaptive approach, prioritizing the client's preferred communication method and enjoying face-to-face interactions for creative problem-solving. Overall, the shift towards digital tools like email, Teams, and texting is evident, but there is still a strong value placed on personal, direct communication, especially in client relationships.

Question 3: How do you see the future of convention services evolving over the next decade?

Stephen: I think technology needs to play a bigger role. I know that many planners are extremely busy and pulled in multiple directions, and I can see this from the convention services side. I’m hoping people can develop better software that allows clients to access information more easily through a portal or something similar. I also think the introduction of AI to help with planning and building specs will make things easier. A lot of times, we spend time interpreting specs when they come in, and bridging that gap is crucial. Sometimes, what clients write down as their requests don’t always align with what we understand, and it can be confusing. So, I think technology is the biggest area where the industry is lacking. It really needs to come to the forefront, especially with the younger generation, who are so tech-savvy and equipped with the latest technology.

Beth: Convention Services or sometimes referenced as Destination Services within the DMO world are ever changing to meet the needs of event & meeting planners, attendees and the destination. Over the next decade, services will continue to meet the demands of an increasingly digital, sustainable and experience-driven industry. Planners are wanting more impactful, personalized and accessible experiences.

Kristen: I think the virtual component has certainly help evolve the traditional meeting. It helped out tremendously when meetings and conventions were getting back up to speed after 2020.  Also, convention apps that replace the traditional convention program manual and allow for social interaction and networking at your fingertips.  On the hotel side, having boardrooms permanently set with technology such as large smart monitors with touch screen capabilities and video conferencing equipment help to create an elevated exercise for small meetings or VIPs.

Summary:

• Kristen represents a balanced, moderate generational view, acknowledging the importance of technology but placing equal value on human connection and personal interactions at events.
• Stephen reflects a more tech-forward perspective, advocating for significant technological integration to improve the efficiency and clarity of event planning processes, particularly in response to younger generations' expectations.
• Beth represents a longer-term, experience-driven perspective, with a focus on personalization and sustainability. While she sees the role of technology in creating these experiences, her approach suggests that technology should be used as a tool to enhance, rather than dominate, the event planning process.

Each speaker reflects a generational mindset that influences their view on the role of technology, with Kristen balancing technology and human connection, Stephen advocating for technological evolution, and Beth prioritizing the experience and personalization aspects of events.

Look for Part Two in the April 2025 Issue of event*ure

Please note that AI was used to compare and contrast the answers.

By Jillian Starr, Visit Indy

In this month's webinar, Peter Zohos, Dean and Professor at Mercyhust University School of Business, explores unique differences in the generations in today’s diverse workplace. Professionals from different generations bring unique strengths, perspectives, and expectations. Understanding and embracing these differences can foster a more collaborative and productive work environment. By recognizing generational trends, prioritizing teamwork, and ensuring continuous learning, organizations can create a culture where all employees thrive.

Generational Differences

Every generation has different workplace expectations shaped by their experiences. Baby Boomers and Gen X employees may approach work with a sense of responsibility and hierarchy, while Millennials and Gen Z prioritize openness, personal feedback, and work-life balance. Recognizing and embracing these differences creates a more cohesive and effective team. However, regardless of generations, Zohos emphasizes how each generation works hard, it just looks different from peers of other generations. 

Generations Growing Together

Thriving workplaces emphasize people, excellence, and teamwork (PET). A key strategy to prevent knowledge loss and improve workplace morale is mentoring. Encouraging seasoned employees to guide younger colleagues ensures that valuable institutional knowledge remains within the organization while helping older employees feel respected and engaged. At the same time, younger generations bring fresh perspectives and a strong understanding of work-life balance, which can help create a more sustainable and dynamic workplace.

Strategies for Success

To create a truly cohesive work environment, it is essential to listen, include, and find common ground. Organizations should actively discourage negativity about other generations and instead promote continuous onboarding and open conversations. Encouraging soft skills development and work-life balance for all employees ensures that both new and seasoned professionals contribute to a thriving workplace.

A multigenerational workplace thrives when employees recognize and appreciate each other’s strengths. By implementing inclusive strategies, businesses can cultivate a collaborative environment where knowledge is shared, innovation flourishes, and employees remain engaged for the long term.

By Kellie Gonzalez, Visit Galveston       

Moderators:

• Paola Bowman, CMP, CMM, Director of Client Services and Events, Arlington CVB
• Natalie Young, CMP, Associate Director of Client Services, Visit Houston

Panelists:

• Ava Wells – Inclusion Manager, Destinations International
• Gary Murakami, GTP, GLP, CMP Fellow, CMM, DES – Vice President, Global Sales & Industry Relations, Teneo Hospitality
• Dr. Kenneth Mitchell, BCC, PCC – Professional Life Coach

Key Takeaways:

Impact of Political and Social Dynamics on Event Planning
In an ideal world, we strive to keep politics separate from our professional work, but in reality, political and social dynamics often seep into event planning. These situations present an opportunity to showcase your organization’s DEI initiatives by addressing pressing social issues through thoughtful programming. Incorporate activities like "Voluntourism" to allow attendees to make a positive impact on the local community.

Work closely with local CVBs and stakeholders who understand the political climate of your destination. Open and honest communication with these partners is crucial for navigating potential challenges while ensuring your event remains inclusive.

Communication vs. Cancel Culture
As Gary Murakami said, "Our industry is a catalyst for change." Rather than avoiding politically charged destinations, we should leverage our platform to encourage dialogue and create change.

Even when stakeholders may not be in a position to advocate politically, we can still communicate effectively. Engage in meaningful conversations with clients to understand their needs and educate your team on how to meet those needs. Staying neutral while fostering inclusive communication helps us uphold industry standards while avoiding the pitfalls of cancel culture.

Navigating Evolving Social Dynamics
Boycotting destinations with political challenges can hinder progress and exclude the voices of marginalized communities. As Dr. Kenneth Mitchell remarked, "We need to be there because they need to see us there."

Avoiding problematic areas only perpetuates exclusion. Instead, showing up and engaging authentically allows us to push for positive change in these communities. Staying informed through news and social media is critical for understanding local dynamics and how they impact event planning. Paola Bowman added, "When you omit a region or a location, you take away their voice."

Strategies for Maintaining Neutrality
While it’s important to understand your group’s values and needs, maintaining neutrality is key to creating a successful experience. To achieve this, foster open dialogue with clients to assess their expectations, and then educate your team on how to align with them. Understanding who you’re working with helps you better navigate the complexities of event planning.

Neutrality doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations. Rather, it’s about creating a balance where inclusivity is maintained without compromising your organization’s core values.

Inclusivity and Addressing Social Justice Issues
How do you lead by example when it comes to inclusivity? Start by asking questions and actively listening to clients’ needs. Incorporate the feedback you receive and share best practices with your peers.

Consider what your group requires to feel included and welcomed, ensuring they leave the event feeling positively impacted. Technology and data analytics play a significant role in advancing inclusivity by revealing where your destination can grow in terms of diversity and representation.

Fostering Respectful Dialogue and Engagement
Addressing customer requests that conflict with your venue’s commitments can be tricky, but it’s essential to respect all beliefs and backgrounds. Reflect on how your organizational values align with the client's and communicate openly if there’s a conflict. These conversations are best initiated verbally, followed by a written summary to prevent misunderstandings.

It’s important to stand firm on your organization’s values, as compromising them can create distrust among your team. When discussing these decisions internally, ensure there’s clarity on why the choices were made.

Emerging Trends and Staying Ahead
Vocalization- As society becomes more vocal about personal beliefs, it’s important to embrace the opportunity for dialogue and growth. Generational differences may cause some tension, however, it also provides an opportunity for communication and growth.

Authenticity-There’s a growing demand for authentic, localized experiences. Highlighting the unique facets of your community is key to delivering unforgettable events. And the only way to achieve this is through being inclusive of your community.

Accessibility- Accessibility, both visible and invisible, is also becoming a hot topic, pushing destinations to reassess how they can meet the diverse needs of all attendees. This has created a space within our industry to check in with our team, community partners, and stakeholders to assess the destination's needs and how we can work together to meet them.

Driving Change Through Engagement
While technology can spark conversations, real change happens through human interaction. The more people involved in these discussions, the greater the impact. It’s up to us to drive meaningful engagement, fostering inclusivity and progress within the industry.

“Event service professionals wear many hats. We juggle multiple events, find solutions, solve crises, brainstorm ideas and orchestrate multiple services on behalf of our clients every day – and that is before breakfast,” former ESPA president Paul Ruby wrote these words in his article “The Importance of Celebrating Event Services” in 2017, just seven years after National Celebrate Service Day was created.

There is no denying event service professionals are important, but as a niche group, how did we get our very own week?  Lynn McCullough, executive director of ESPA explained.

My first question was how many years did it take to create? “In 2010, ESPA (then ACOM, the Association for Convention Operations Management) created National Celebrate Services Day.  At the time, we wanted to give members a reason and opportunity to plan events locally to bring together Services teams for peer networking in between our Annual Conferences.   Over time, we heard from members that we should expand beyond one day to give members more opportunities to hold events, so the Day eventually became a Week of celebrations.”

Who was most influential in creating National Celebrate Services Day/NCSW? “ The Board of Directors in 2010, under the leadership of the then President, Lyan Tassler who was with the Greater Miami CVB at the time.”

Are you aware of anyone joining ESPA because of NCSW?    “We encourage members to invite prospective members in their cities to their events. We provide event hosts with membership material they can provide to attendees.  We have made many great connections with prospective members through NCSW which have turned into new members. In particular hotels who may only know about ESPA through the CVB-hosted events.”

How do you see Celebrate Services Week as a way to, “advocate for the event services profession?” “We wanted to Celebrate the role of the Event Services professional –a role that has tremendous impact on a destination or venue yet can be under-valued. By putting the spotlight on our members during this week, it helps to raise awareness about all of the event professionals who do such a great job every day for event planners. We encourage event organizers to invite management and C-suite to the gatherings.    HQ has an active social media campaign to showcase the events taking place.”

After 14 years of CSW, what would you say is the legacy?   “Many of our members look forward to this time every year.  They have an opportunity to be creative with their events and meet new people in their own cities who do what they do.   It’s our hope that many new connections are made among Services teams during this week.”

So, hats off to the ACOM board of directors and then President, Lyan Tassler for creating a week where we celebrate with our fellow unsung companions, advocate for our profession, network locally and give back to our community.