EduCon 2017

Another successful EduCon event full of learning, networking and energy was held downtown at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis on Thursday, November 30, 2017. Attendees were treated to exceptional hospitality from our host venue and their sponsorship of the event was critical to its success.

The day started with a “kick in the attitude,” provided by keynote speaker, Sam Glenn. In his positive inspiring and frequently hilarious presentation, EduCon attendees were encouraged to examine their own attitudes and learn how to take action for positive outcomes. His session was topped off with Sam sharing his artistic talents on stage, and two lucky people were able to take home his artwork as a memento of their experience.

Education is the key focus of EduCon. Eleven sessions were available as approved CEU credits throughout the day with topics ranging from logistics such as AV pricing, contract negotiation and current industry and technology trends to professional development with relationship building, building on strengths and avoiding professional pitfalls. Meredith Commender, Colleen Cussick, Sam Glenn, Sam Foxman, David E. Merrell, and Stosh Walsh were our expert group of speakers that informed and engaged all who attended their sessions.

A bit of friendly competition, some excellent treats and beverages, as well as working together for a great cause rounded out the event. This philanthropy-based teambuilding session was hosted by TeamBonding. With instruction from our energetic facilitator, Dustin Reichert, each group created dog bed covers, cat scratching platforms and pull toys that were donated to the Humane Society of Missouri.

Special thanks to Todd Thomas with Porta Party DJs for keeping the day running smoothly as our emcee.

This event would not be possible without the generous support of all of our sponsors. We greatly appreciate the contributions of the following organizations who sponsored EduCon 2017.

Strategic Partners:

Diamond Strategic Partner
Logic Systems

Platinum Strategic Partner
Explore St. Louis

Gold Strategic Partners
Saint Charles Convention Center
Chicago Southland CVB
Greater St. Charles CVB

Silver Strategic Partner
Conference Technologies

Special Strategic Partner
Visit Indy

EduCon Sponsors
Host Sponsor
Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis

Platinum Sponsors
Logic Systems
TeamBonding

Silver Sponsors
Connie Duglin Linens
Q&A Business Solutions
Porta Party DJs

Contributing Sponsors
Best Transportation
Dubuque CVB
Express Scripts
Lodging Hospitality Management
Missouri Meetings & Events

Thanks to the EduCon Committee (Julie Davinroy, Courtney Brown, Lenny Klinger, Cara McGuire, Sarah Kay Broeker and Erica West) for the hard work that went into the production of this year’s event. Planning for 2018 will begin soon, so if you are interested in becoming involved please reach out to Kaitlin Jakel, Vice President of Education or Elizabeth Cordes, Director of EduCon, for more information.

Finally, we hope that each person who attended this year’s event left refreshed, inspired and energized – all of the efforts were made for you! Best wishes in the New Year from the MPI St. Louis Area Chapter and the EduCon Committee. See you at EduCon 2018!

Submitted by Cara McGuire