Thank you to each and every one of you who attended VenueConnect 2011. We had a successful conference in Phoenix with a total of 1,659 in attendance and 213 exhibiting companies.

Speakers shared their expertise and strategies covering the most essential topics in the venue management industry while exhibitors displayed innovative products and solutions. Days full of education and networking led into evening events surrounded by great company, food and entertainment.

In Phoenix, two great gavels were passed. Randy Brown, CFE, took position as IAVM Chairman and Vicki Hawarden, CMP was announced as the association’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, a position she will begin on August 15 as Dexter King, CFE, retires on September 4.

Brown’s upcoming year as chair will have a special emphasis on the four R’s of Relevant, Responsive, Research and Reputation.

“We must be of consequence to our membership,” said Brown. “There is a perceived value in that to keep us relevant. As far as being responsive, this permeates through all levels at the Association.”

I am sending this thank you to all who participated in making the auction an incredible success.  The raffle and auction generated a lot of funds for the Foundation and made great items available for purchase.

The IAVM Foundation Silent Auction, sponsored by Comcast Spectacor & their family of companies and Feld Entertainment, auctioned off over $200,000 worth of items in support of the Foundation’s initiatives. Thank you to all donors and bidders for their support.

We look forward to seeing you in Ft. Lauderdale, FL in 2012!


2011 Keynote Performance "I Can Go"
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