You might be tired of hearing Millennial this, Millennial that. Good, because we’re going to talk about Generation Z, the follow-up to the hit Generation Y (Millennials).

According to a survey this summer conducted by Robert Half and Enactus, in five years Generation Z will make up more than 20 percent of the workforce.

“Gen Z employees bring unique values, expectations, and perspectives to their jobs,” said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half. “They’ve grown up in economically turbulent times, and many of their characteristics and motivations reflect that.”

Examples from the survey of those characteristics include 77 percent anticipating that they’ll have to work harder than previous generations to have a satisfying and fulfilling career, US$46,799 is the mean salary expectation for their first job after college, and 30 percent say they would take a 10 percent to 20 percent pay cut to work for a cause they deeply care about.

“This group of professionals has grown up with technology available to them around the clock and is accustomed to constant learning,” said Bev Graham, PhD, vice president of Enactus USA programs. “Companies with a solid understanding of this generation’s values and preferences will be well prepared to create work environments that attract a new generation of employees and maximize their potential.”

Check out the infographic below (click to enlarge it) to learn more about this generation just now coming of age in the workforce.

(Image: Robert Half)

The post No Snoozing: Generation Z is Coming Soon appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Every year, committees get new charges and new personnel to help accomplish those goals. This year, however, there is one more committee than there was before. The Young Professional Taskforce is no more! We’ve grown up (not too much), and made the transition to a full-fledged, card-carrying, secret-handshake-having committee. That’s right, folks. You’re stuck with us for good!

As I begin my second cycle as chair of the Young Professionals (YP), I want to take a little more time to curate and share with you the voices of the YP and student membership. The dedication, determination, and vision of all those I met in my building back in August at VenueConnect was so inspiring that I thought it would be a disservice not to share with all of you. I thought there would be no better way to start than by introducing to you the new members of the committee this year and let them tell you why they want to help the YP cause and what IAVM has means to them:

Julie Gomez, 22, N.J. YMCA sports coordinator – “Being a part of the Young Professionals Committee allows me the incredible opportunity to be surrounded by and learn from the future leaders of our industry as we follow the incredible footsteps of those who have accomplished so much before us. IAVM has so many resources for any stage of your career, and I am excited to take advantage of everything this organization has to offer as I continue to grow as a professional in the sports and entertainment industry.

“The 2015 VenueConnect Conference in Baltimore gave me my first real taste of what IAVM has to offer. Whether it be increasing your knowledge on numerous topics to expanding your network or giving you a boost on your job hunt, I was held speechless by all these resources and the opportunities to meet the leaders of our industry who are so eager to send the elevator back down to us. As a member of IAVM, I want to be molded into one of our industry’s top influencers and be an individual that young professionals will want to come to and ask for advice on how they can cultivate their paths. It is not about getting your foot in the door, it is about kicking those doors off their hinges, and that is exactly what I intend to do.”

Kelly Ortiz, 31, assistant general manager of F&B, BOK Center – “Becoming involved in the YP committee was an easy choice for me. As a young professional myself, I did not realize all of the benefits that IAVM had to offer until just a few years ago. IAVM has given me a valuable networking group that has provided me with insight to improve my business methods and create revenue opportunities that otherwise may not exist. I would like to help other young professionals new to our business and show them just how impactful IAVM can be.”

Zach Sloman, 24, booking and sales coordinator, John Paul Jones Arena – “I graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2013 with a degree in event management. During that time, I had the pleasure of interning for Orlando Venues (Amway Center, Florida Citrus Bowl) where I really got my first taste of the industry working in the operations and marketing departments. After graduating, I accepted a full-time position with FELD Entertainment in the routing and tours department until moving to Charlottesville to become the booking and sales coordinator for SMG and John Paul Jones Arena. I chose to be a part of the IAVM Young Professionals Committee because I believe it to be a great first step in getting my feet wet within the IAVM community as well as hopefully making lasting relationships with current Young Professionals who will grow alongside me within the industry. I also believe the Young Professionals group is underutilized and hope to change that in the upcoming year. Helping IAVM is important to me, because the organization and its members have afforded me great opportunities early in my career, which have put me on a successful path. The mentor connector program has also been a favorite of mine, of which I hope to be on the opposite side of in future years.”

These three come from varying backgrounds, and I came across them in different ways. With Julie, I met her when she reached out to the YP committee prior to VenueConnect after our series of blog posts wanting to know how to get the most out of her membership. I haven’t seen a person work a room like her in my life, and I’m so fortunate to have that kind of enthusiasm on the team.

Kelly Ortiz and I share a special bond as we were the only two Millennials in this past May’s Senior Executive Symposium at Cornell. The conversations that we had with our colleagues about how to manage and incorporate the younger workforce into our industry are the kind of conversations that we hope to promote with the association-at-large at other conferences, chapter meetings, on college campuses, and on social media.

Zach… well…. I just lucked into him. Thanks to the call-for-volunteers each year, Zach made the decision to get involved in an association that he hopes to grow along with. There are many others like him throughout the other committees, and we thank you all for your commitment to serve. You won’t regret it!

The above mentioned three join a committed group of 11 others that have a passion for helping push the dialogue between the generations. If you run into any of the committee members, let us know your thoughts, how we can best serve, and in return, we’ll make sure we put all those “my mom makes my lunch at 25” and “I demand a $70k job out of college,” Millennial myths to bed for good.

The post A New Year and a New Title! appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

The Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship program is now accepting applications for all 2016 events. Scholarships + Internships will be awarded for the Academy for Venue Safety & Security, the Performing Arts Managers Conference, Venue Management School, VenueConnect, the Arena Management Conference, and the International Convention Center Conference.

“Applying for the VMS internship is the best decision I’ve ever made,” said Miah Moore, a student at Missouri State University student and a 2015 Venue Management School intern. “I want to encourage any students reading this to apply. Take the time and apply for all of the opportunities, because I promise you that you WILL take something away from your experience. You won’t regret it.”

The Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship Program was established after the untimely passing of Joseph A. Floreano, CFE, a long-time IAVM member, Foundation Trustee, and the first and only Honorary Chairman of the Foundation Board of Trustees. Floreano was known for giving selflessly in both time and money to worthy industry causes. His leadership was aspirational, and he took great pride in mentoring and supporting the advancement of the venue management industry. The contributions Floreano made to the Foundation are immeasurable and with that we believed that the naming of the scholarship + internship program would be the most appropriate way to honor his legacy that will forever leave a mark on the Foundation.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity given to me by the IAVM Foundation,” said Kenneth Gaudinez, an event manager at the Orange County Convention Center and a 2015 Venue Management School (VMS) Scholarship Recipient. “I never thought I would attend VMS until the Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship program was created. The IAVM Foundation is providing opportunities to those who may not have the resources to attend IAVM’s conferences, schools, or professional development courses. I encourage everyone to take full advantage of these opportunities and apply for the various scholarships they have to offer.”

Thirty-seven Scholarships + Internships were awarded in 2015 thanks to the support of committed donors. Recipients receive full complimentary registration to the respective conference or school in addition to a stipend to assist with travel expenses or hotel accommodations. For more information about the Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship program, click here. If you have any questions about the program, please contact IAVM Foundation staff at Foundation@iavm.org.

“Having the privilege to be part of VenueConnect as an intern was extremely rewarding, and I can’t thank IAVM enough for the opportunity,” said Ashley Molina, a University of Florida student and 2015 VenueConnect intern. “Not only is EVERYONE approachable, but they are also willing to share insight on the industry… I made valuable connections at VC15, especially with the interns. We clicked so well we felt like family by the end. I can’t wait to attend the next conference and be reunited with these wonderful people.”

The post 2016 Scholarship + Internship Applications are Now Open appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

We’re happy to announce some programming notes for GuestX, Feb. 21-23, 2016, in Dallas, Texas.

One of the most popular and informative sessions last year was led by Jennifer Blackmon, corporate director of culture transformation at The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center, and we’re pleased that she will be rejoining us for a new session focused on service excellence culture.

“Customer service re-energized is really the starting point on your journey to exceptional customer service,” Blackmon said in the video below. “One of the biggest points of that course is our motto, which is we’re ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen. But throughout the class, we rework that to say we’re ladies and gentlemen working with ladies and gentlemen.”

Other speakers and sessions lined up for GuestX include our keynote speaker T. Scott Gross, an author and hospitality industry veteran, who will speak on how to sell, serve, and stand out in a digital age; Carmen Day, director of guest experience for the Toronto Blue Jays, who will focus on front line supervisors; Jeff Cockrell from Dale Carnegie Training, who will educate attendees on how to have richer and more meaningful conversations with strangers; and Steve A. Klein, who will help attendees unleash their potential. There will also be a panel of experts from several major league sports leagues discussing how to create a great guest experience and an interactive session led by Gensler on how to design environments for optimal experiences.

Registration is open. Please visit the GuestX website to learn more about the conference and to stay up-to-date on additional speakers and sessions. See you in February!

The post Announcing GuestX Speakers and Sessions appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

The International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM)—representing thousands of venue managers and partner companies in stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, arenas, racetracks, amphitheaters, and other public assembly venues—is deeply grieved by the tragic events that took place in Paris, France, on Friday, Nov. 13, 2015.

“As IAVM members, our hearts and best wishes are with our venue brothers and sisters in Paris as well as with all of the people touched by the tragic events experienced there,” said Karen Totaro, CFE, chair of IAVM and general manager of the Atlantic City Convention Center in New Jersey. “As people who oversee a multitude of venues, much like Stade de France and the Paris Bataclan Concert Hall, we are reminded of the ever-growing need to continually assess, train, and prepare our teams and our community leaders to effectively reduce the opportunity for tragic occurrences in our own venues worldwide.”

As details emerge of the attacks, specifically at the soccer stadium, we are learning that proper safety and security training helped saved lives. Rest assured, the safety and security of guests, artists, teams, and venue personnel is always of absolute top priority for our community of venue managers. Together we work hard to maintain venues that are well prepared to address every issue that potentially undermines a safe and secure environment.

In response to the Paris attacks, IAVM has been communicating with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and industry partners such as the Association of Professional Venue Management (A-PVM) in Belgium, to gather information and appropriate updates to keep the IAVM community informed.

IAVM Webinar and Resource Site
A new webinar, Smart Practices for Venue Managers After the Paris Attacks, has been scheduled for Friday, November 20, at 10 a.m. CST (UTC -6). This webinar will only be available to IAVM members and will include presentations from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Scott McCartney, project director of the Large Stadium Initiative with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services; John Siehl, CFE, chair of IAVM’s Academy for Venue Safety & Security (AVSS); and our partners at A-PVM in Europe.

For more information on the webinar, and for resources and articles related to the Paris attacks, a resource page has been built on the AVSS website.

AVSS 2016
In 2004, IAVM created the AVSS to be an intense training academy focused on security training and life safety management for the public assembly industry. The 2016 curriculum, developed by an expert faculty of experienced venue managers and industry leaders, equips attendees with information, tools, and methodologies to protect guests, customers, employees, property, and assets through risk identification, implementation of risk management practices and procedures, emergency planning, preservation of economic viability, and facilitation of recovery.

“Not every facility may face domestic or international terrorism,” said John Siehl, CFE, chair of AVSS, “but they do all face emergencies and incidents that the ‘all-hazards’ approach of AVSS training prepares them for.”

An overview of the core curriculum for AVSS is available in FM online, and more information about AVSS 2016 (February 21-25, Dallas, TX) is available at iavm.org/AVSS.

Live Venue – Live Training
In September 2015, IAVM piloted an in-venue training program at the Curtis Culwell Center (Garland, TX) and the American Airlines Center (Dallas, TX). This new, onsite program delivered Trained Crowd Manager Live, Active Attacker Preparedness, and Situational Awareness Training to hundreds of venue personnel in a live, interactive learning environment.

“This new format for life safety training is tremendous, and it enables entire venue teams to receive comprehensive training covering three major components of their safety and security preparedness,” said Mark Herrera, IAVM’s director of education. “The feedback that we received during our pilot sessions was extremely positive, and we anticipate this new program being a great addition to the training happening in venues.”

IAVM anticipates making the Live Training available in early 2016, though interest can be shared directly to the IAVM Education Team to ensure early participation.

The Future of the Venue Industry
It is hard to overstate the joy, excitement, and positive impact of the events, concerts, matches, games, competitions, meetings, performances, and experiences happening at our venues.

As Bono commented to Rolling Stone after their Paris performance was canceled a few days ago, this attack is significant and will require action, but it is not the final word.

“Music is very important,” Bono said. “I think U2 has a role to play, and I can’t wait till we get back to Paris and play and that’s what I’m feeling from the messages we’re receiving from music fans is these people will not set our agenda. They will not organize our lives for us.

“The feeling of Madison Square Garden [their concert after September 11, 2001] was just unbelievable and the feeling was just this is who we are, you can’t change it …” Bono continued. “You’re not going to turn us into haters or you’re not going to turn us around in the way we go about our lives. That was the feeling of Madison Square Garden back then, and I hope that will be the feeling at Bercy when we get back there.”

Behind the stage, off the field, in offices, before—during—and after each event, in cities and communities around the world, venue managers are working hard to deliver memorable, successful, safe, and secure events day after day—night after night.

“With AVSS 2016, GuestX, Severe Weather Preparedness, and now our Live Training that will be debuting shortly, IAVM remains fundamentally committed to equipping and training venue managers and professionals with the latest resources, knowledge, and connections needed to ensure that, as the venue industry, we are prepared for every threat, hazard, and emergency we face,” said Vicki Hawarden, CMP, president and CEO of IAVM.

The post The Paris Attacks and the Global Venue Industry appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

As promised IAVM members, the plan is to take you all along for the journey this year as the board tackles several items that are instrumental to the future of IAVM. With that in mind, we wanted to update you on some helpful information that was shared on the October Board of Directors call so that you have as much insight into the happenings of our favorite association as the board does.

The three most pertinent items of interest:

• 2nd Vice Chair Selection Criteria – The Governance Committee chaired by Mark Mettes, CFE, was given the task of developing a fair, transparent 2nd Vice-Chair selection criteria and process that will carry the IAVM into the future. The goal was to ensure all members know and understand the necessary accomplishments needed to be considered for 2nd Vice Chair thus the ascension to the Chairman of the Board role for IAVM. The results are challenging as they should be, but we found them to be fair and easily transparent. We encourage you to read the criteria and share them with other members. The application will be made available on Nov. 20, 2015 and can be found on the IAVM website. In addition, the Leadership Development/Nominating Committee chaired by Kim Bedier, CFE, will help roll out the information in several ways to ensure our members have the criteria and a complete understanding of the process prior to the Dec. 31, 2015 deadline.

• Conference Structure – This past July, the team at IAVM headquarters presented some very relevant information to the board about the challenges we are facing with the continued decline of attendance at VenueConnect. It was a fact-based, data-driven presentation in terms of attendance numbers and revenue dollars over the last 15 years. In addition, the team shared some “big picture” ideas of what possibilities might be worth considering to help turn the numbers around. They were and still are just potential ideas to get us all thinking about where we want to go with our conferences and trade show. The largest revenue producing event that accounts for 33 percent of the overall IAVM operating budget is indeed VenueConnect. Over the next two months, a tag-team of one of our Executive Committee members along with a team member from headquarters will share the same information with all of our sector committees, the VenueConnect Program Committee, and our Allied Committee, just to name a few. We are also going to have a webinar to share this information so that all members may have the opportunity to see the data. Stay tuned for dates and times. We need and very much want all of your ideas, thoughts, and suggestions. Please participate, as you just might have the perfect idea! The Executive Committee and staff want to gather as much feedback as possible so that when the board re-groups in January we will be able to share the members’ feedback with the entire board. After the board meeting, we will contact all the committees again to share updates and gather additional input for whatever might be the next step we agree to.

• Board Structure – Last year, we started the conversation at the board level with regard to challenges in how the board is currently structured. We shared this information with all the members through various listening exercises throughout the year to gather your input and thoughts. In January, the board is going to re-group and share the feedback so we can understand what is critical in the make-up of the board to all of us as members. The idea on this item is to delve into what structure can best sustain IAVM well into the future, while ensuring there is continual input and feedback from representation of all our members.

As a board, we are representing each one of our members so it is important to us and to the future of IAVM that our members are part of the decision making process. Please check out the 2nd Vice Chair criteria and share it with others who might be perfect for the role! Continue to give feedback and ideas to any board member to bring to our January mid-year meeting, and know I am an email or phone call away.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

The post An IAVM Update from Karen Totaro, CFE appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Do you have a young professional working for you that has a bright future in the industry? Nominate your employee to be one of 30 venue industry professionals, 30 years of age and under, who will receive a travel stipend of US$850 and complimentary registration (value: $1,1185) to attend VenueConnect, IAVM’s Annual Conference & Trade Show, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 23-26, 2016. Recipients will be recognized throughout the annual meeting and formally at the Venue Industry Awards luncheon on Monday, July 25, 2016.

Launched at VenueConnect in Baltimore, the inaugural IAVM Foundation 30|UNDER|30 class of 2015 kicked off the program by participating in the IAVM Foundation’s Legacy Project and UpStart: Emerging Leaders Experience, in addition to exclusive 30|UNDER|30 and Young Professional networking events before being honored at the Venue Industry Awards luncheon. By participating in education and professional development sessions geared toward young professionals throughout the conference, many 30|UNDER|30 recipients returned to their venues with renewed enthusiasm for their jobs as well as industry.

“They talked about how amazing it was to have the chance to converse with other people from every size and type of facility and to hear the panels or classes they previously would not have had the ability to be exposed to,” said Kerry Painter, CFE, CEM, CMP, assistant general manager at the Cox Business Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. “It was an inspiration for them and in some ways permission in the future to continue to reach out to industry colleagues who they now know. ‘Knowing what other buildings do makes you start to think what you’re doing and that it can always be better. It helps you learn, grow, and think more than you did before’ was the quote from one of our winners.”

Supporting young professionals in the industry through a program like 30|UNDER|30 is key to the profession’s growth.

“If we want to keep young professionals engaged and desiring a career in venue management, then we need to get them involved in the industry outside our buildings as soon as possible,” said Robyn Williams, CFE, executive director of Portland’5 Centers for the Arts.

Brad Mayne, CFE, president and CEO of MetLife Stadium, agrees with Williams.

“It is important to get our young professionals networking and professional development opportunities so they are exposed to multiple and diverse experiences in our industry,” Mayne said. “The impressive programs, custom made for millennials, at VenueConnect will help propel their knowledge and experience, making them a greater asset for our organization.”

Painter said the impact of not only being nominated but having to work for the achievement is powerful.

“The educational and social experience was of a quality I have not often seen in a conference and the recipients left with renewed enthusiasm, relationships in both peers and mentors, and a better idea of the professional world they are setting out to conquer,” Painter said. “They will become valuable to our industry in the future because of programs such as this. You absolutely should not hesitate to nominate your young rock stars. They will be fired up upon returning to your venue and the organization as a whole will be stronger for it!”

To learn more about the 30|UNDER|30 program or to nominate someone from your team, click here.

The post 2016 30|UNDER|30 Nominations Now Open appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Please welcome our newest members who joined IAVM May-October 2015—a total of 497 new members. That’s great news, because it shows your network of professionals is growing. Thank you for being a part of the association!

Janet Allen-Smith, Smart City
Clyde Almy, Alvarado Manufacturing Co. Inc.
Joseph Altenau, Prudential Center
Julian Anderson, Rider Levett Bucknall
Joseph Anderson
Sherry Andre, Johnson & Wales University
Audrey Andrews, The Baltimore Convention Center
Ronnie Aultman, Verizon Arena
Sharon Rene Baanante, River Building Cultural Arts Center
Kyle Bahrle, Prudential Center
Justin Balenger, Tuscaloosa Amphitheater – City of Tuscaloosa
Jennifer Bales, Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau
Thomas Ballantine, Fredericksburg Convention Center
Stuart Ballantyne, Rogers Place
Craig Baltzer, Rushmore Plaza Civic Center
Luis Banuelos, Microsoft Theater
Adam Barrie, Rogers Place
Natalie Barrow, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Becky Bartling, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Jayne Basse, Music Hall at Fair Park
Marc Beasley, University of California – San Diego
Jodie Beler, Mosaic Place
Elma Bell, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Chrissie Bertsch, Salem Convention Center
Angel Betanzos, Expo Reforma
Michael Betts, Rose Quarter
Jennifer Bexley, Georgia International Horse Park
Amy Billburg, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Whitney Bishop, Richmond Coliseum, Carpenter Theatre, Altria Theater
Gary Bishop, Minneapolis Convention Center
Bob Black, Rogers Place
Casey Blake, Mesa Arts Center
Adelle Bland, RFK Stadium
Ashley Bland, Bell County Expo Center
David Bloom, ParkWhiz
Matthew Boring, Lied Center for Performing Arts University of Nebraska
Gordon Botwright, St. John Ambulance Australia (VIC)
Michelle Boyette, Virginia Beach Convention Center
Jennifer Bozzo, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
Erin Brenner, Reva & David Logan Center for the Arts
Britney Brewington, Chaifetz Arena
Sabrina Brizzolari, MassMutual Center
Paul Broadhead, University of Wisconsin – Madison
Jana Brooks, Maryland Stadium Authority
Lonnie Brown, Overland Park Convention Center
Mark Brown, AT&T Stadium – Dallas Cowboys
Sam Brown, CCLD Networks
Paul Bryce, Royal Flying Doctors Service
Dean Brzuskiewicz, Prudential Center
Cathy Buchhofer, Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA)
Erin Buena, Ricca Design Studios
Steve Bunton, Indiana University-Purdue University
Nathanael Burke, Seaside Civic & Convention Center
April Busby, Texas Performing Arts, University of Texas at Austin
Shane Cadwell, Santa Ana Star Center
Katie Calabrese, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Gabriella Calicchio, Marin County Department of Cultural and Visitor Services
Brandon Calloway, Kennesaw State University Sports and Entertainment Park
Anthony Camarillo, The Lakeland Center
James Campbell, FELD Entertainment
Savanna Campbell, Johnson & Wales University-Colorado
Alita Caparotta, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Raymond Caraballo, Quicken Loans Arena
Katelyn Carenza, Verizon Center
Sandra Carretero, Tucson Convention Center
John Carroll
Jimmy Carter, Verizon Arena
Dale Carter, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
John Castillo, AT&T Center
Faye Cater, Alameda County Fairgrounds
Carol Cates, Curtis Culwell Center
Lori Chance, Fair Park Dallas
Keith Chapman, Curtis Culwell Center
Chris Chartier, AT&T Center
Carlos Chavez, Centro Banamex
Heather Cheong, Georgia World Congress Center
Angel Clark, Whirley-DrinkWorks!
Bradley Cleveland, Nationwide Arena
Kathryn Coble, Owensboro Convention Center
Stephen Collins, Oracle Arena – Golden State Warriors
Michael Conley, Fair Park Dallas
Jon Cooper, The Fox Theatre – Atlanta
Jessica Corona, Overland Park Convention Center
Anna Cosentino, Ex-Cell Kaiser LLC
Craig Cotugno, Oregon Convention Center
Tara Coughlan, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Joel Cox, Des Moines Performing Arts
Steven Crandell, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
James Crann, Prudential Center
Amy Cromer, The Fox Theatre – Atlanta
Andrew Cronomiz, Green Music Center
Jon Cross, Wright State University Nutter Center
Samantha Cross, Indiana State Fairgrounds
Shannon Crossley, Oklahoma State Fair Park
Jim Crosthwaite, Rocklin Parks and Recreation Department, City of Rocklin
Char Cunningham, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Bryton Curtis, Chaifetz Arena
Kevin Daly, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum & Sports Arena
Susan Darrington, Rogers Place
Emilie Daubenspeck, Wings Event Center
Jennifer Davies, LDS Church Conference Center
Taylor Davis, Owensboro Convention Center
Jason Davis, Honda Center
Brant Davis, Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Mary Ellen Davis, Lancaster County Convention Center Authority
Jim Day, Canucks Sports & Entertainment – Rogers Arena
Candice De Hont, AT&T Center
Richard DeCusati, MassMutual Center
Maria del Refugio, Arias Expo Guadalajara
James DeMeo, Unified Sports & Entertainment Security Consulting LLC
Melissa DeMonaco, Fairplex
Jack DeShaw, Safeco Field/Seattle Mariners
Mark Di Mattia, Profurn Commercial Pty Ltd
Amy Dickerson, Lancaster Event Center
Amy DiNorscio, City of Boca Raton
Kate Djupe, The Commissary Columbus
Kevin Dolansky, Greensboro Coliseum Complex
Jason Donato, St. Charles Convention Center
Kevin Dooley, AT&T Center
Kate Douglas, Owensboro Convention Center
Andrew Douglas, Mesa Arts Center
Dan Dreier, Minneapolis Convention Center
Sheldon Drew, Minneapolis Convention Center
Tim Drost, Musco Sports Lighting
Sydnee Drust, Microsoft Theater
Laurie Earnheart, Owensboro Convention Center
Michael Ebow, American Airlines Center
Steve Egan, Minneapolis Convention Center
Noga Eilon – Bahar, Eilon Engineering Weighing Systems
Donovan Ellis, CAPS Payroll
Robert Emery, Alexandria Riverfront Center
Blake Englert, Peoria Sports Complex
Bill Enkhbayar, Boardwalk Hall
Brian Ernsberger, Samford University
Mike Estes, Centennial Olympic Park
Sarah Eubanks, Rose Quarter
Kelsey Fales, Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts & Corporate Presentations
Dave Faller, Gateway Sports Complex
Elaine Farmer, University of South Carolina
Brooke Farris, Rose Quarter
Ken Ferriter, MetLife Stadium
Adam Firth, Venues West
Rachel Fisher, Texas A&M University
Tim Flair, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Michael Flynn, University of South Carolina
Janell Fondry, Cedar Park Center
Brian Ford, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
Jenny Fornoff, Durham Performing Arts Center
George Fouskarinis, Delaware North Companies
Jarrod Fresquez, ParkHub.com
Ashleigh Frieday, The Conference and Event Center Niagara Falls
Sarah Frost, TicketDirect
Karen Furlow, Fairplex
Sandra Gajic, Vancouver Civic Theatres
Brian Gale, Prudential Center
Kevin Galvin, Rogers Place
Maria Gamez, Centro Banamex
Anand Ganesan, Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre
Sara Garcia, Expo Guadalajara
Charles Gardner, Memphis Cook Convention Center
Lori Garza, Peace Center for the Performing Arts
Edith Gay, Minneapolis Convention Center
Yvonne Gentry, Verizon Arena
Janice Gerse, SaskTel Centre
Mark Gheduzzi, Prudential Center
Jason Gibson, INTRUST Bank Arena
Brittany Gilbert, Georgetown University
John Gilbert, Fairplex
Cade Gilmartin, Verizon Arena
Joseph Giordano, Santander Arena & Performing Arts Center
Vernon Giscombe, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Jeanette Goins, Owensboro Convention Center
Mauricio Gonzalez, Cintermex Convention Center
Robert Goodner, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Todd Greathouse, Gateway Sports Complex
Audrey Greaves, Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts & Corporate Presentations
Anthony Greenidge, The Baltimore Convention Center
James Greer, Tennessee Performing Arts Center
Floyd Griffin, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Michael Grimmett, DeJoria Center
Doug Grissom, Raleigh Convention and Conference Center Complex
Blake Groves, Texas Tech University
Mark Gruhala, America’s Center
Michael Gualano, Prudential Center
Chris Guertin, Sport Resource Group
Ashley Guthier, Overland Park Convention Center
William Hager, T & B Equipment Company Inc.
Jessica Haines, STAPLES Center
Jennifer Hammontree, Portland’5 Centers for the Arts
Angie Hanley, Owensboro Convention Center
Andrew Harrington, RFK Stadium
Nathanael Harris, MassMutual Center
Alanna Hatcher, Prudential Center
Richard Helfman, The Escalator Cleaning Company
Stephen Helm, Owensboro Convention Center
Martha Henderson, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Sarah Henrichs, Annenberg Presidential Conference Center
Michael Henry, USA Hockey Arena
Andrew Herbert, St. Charles Convention Center
Theresa Hernandez, Mesa Arts Center
Allen Herzog, Owensboro Convention Center
Joshua Hezlep, Fair Park Dallas
Leslie Hill, Colleyville Center
Erika Hiriart, Centro De Convenciones Y Exposiciones De Morelia
Brian Hoffman, Pueblo Convention Center
Jeff Holmes, Town of Kindersley
Gerry Holodak, Rose Quarter
Jacquelyn Holowaty, Spectra Venue Management – Corporate Headquarters
Tamlyn Horne, Georgia World Congress Center
Jeff Hovey, Chaifetz Arena
Shanice Howard, Albany Civic Center Complex
William Huddy
Jeremy Huelsing, Chaifetz Arena
Mercedes Hunt, University of Utah
Abigail Hunt, University of South Carolina
Jeffrey Hunter, RFK Stadium
Sandra Hunter, RFK Stadium
Roger Imhoff, The Jerome Schottenstein Center
Nicole Jackson, RFK Stadium
Allyson Jackson, Jekyll Island Convention Center
Andrew Jacobs, Rosser International Inc.
Michael Jacobs, Tap.in2
Theodore Jacobson, Ames Center
Manuel Jarquin, Microsoft Theater
Oswaldo Jimenez, Centro de Convenciones WTC Morelos
Candace Johnson, RFK Stadium
Vicki Johnson, Regional Facilities Auckland Ltd
Kila Johnson, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Lauren Johnson-Cummings, Peace Center for the Performing Arts
Tracey Jones, Overland Park Convention Center
Rhett Jones, Owensboro Convention Center
Cassie Jones, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Ryan Jordan, Churchill Downs Racetrack
Helena Jose, Expo Reforma
Raney Kaaa, Curtis Culwell Center
Mike Kalberer, Space Age Synthetics
Jeanne Kanoy, Overland Park Convention Center
Conrad Karbowniczak, D.W. Haber & Son
Lori Kennedy, Overland Park Convention Center
Patrick Kerins, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Danny King, Verizon Arena
Kenyatta Kinloch, Kennesaw State University Sports and Entertainment Park
John Kirk, Curtis Culwell Center
Peter Kirschner, RFK Stadium
Andrew Kletke, Overland Park Convention Center
Jane Knell, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
William Krueger, Conventions, Sports & Leisure International
Jason Krull, Mesa Arts Center
Barry Kumpf, Blair County Convention Center
Johnny Lamb, Curtis Culwell Center
Andrew Lambert, Fanvious LLC
Tim Landis, Gila River Arena
Leslie Lane, The Jerome Schottenstein Center
Gregory Langford, Minneapolis Convention Center
Rhonda Leach, Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center
Sara Leary, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
Larry Lee, Alexandria Riverfront Center
Leslie Lee, AT&T Park – San Francisco Giants
Kate Lee, Tilikum Software
Doug Lehman, MilSpec Industries
Rose Lehn, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Franz Lehrbass, Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium
Alex Lichtig, San Diego State University
Todd Liermann, The National Western Stock Show
Josh Lipscomb, Oregon Convention Center
Tonia Litchey, Mesa Arts Center
Daniel Lohman, Velociti Inc.
Brooks Lohr, Owensboro Convention Center
Leslie Lotten, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Said Lounis, SERAPID Inc.
Sean Loyst, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex – City of Kitchener
Marcia Maddocks, Cox Communication/Hospitality Network
Helen Malone, Northern Kentucky Convention Center
Jamie Marino, Prudential Center
Ana Martinez, Centro De Convenciones Y Exposiciones De Morelia
Nicola Martinez, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
David Mason, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Matt Mason, Rose Quarter
Glenn Matthews, Sydney Motorsport Park
Derrick Mays, RFK Stadium
Kari McAllister, Chabot College, Reed L. Buffington Visual & Performing Arts Center
Deirdra McBride, The Baltimore Convention Center
Lee McCarthy, Melbourne Stadiums Limited, Etihad Stadium
Ron McEachron, Overland Park Convention Center
Mike McGee, Able Services
Mark McGinley, McGinley Maintenance Inc.
Rachael McGuire, AT&T Center
Marcy McKinley, Grand Wayne Convention Center
Ryan McMahon, Saratoga Springs City Center
Rob McManus, St. John Ambulance Australia (VIC)
Halie Medkiff, Owensboro Convention Center
Oscar Mejia, Centro de Convenciones WTC Morelos
Kevin Melsby, American Airlines Center
Abe Mendez, St. Charles Convention Center
Renee Mendoza, Fairplex
Gracie Mercado, Prudential Center
Kelsey Metzger, Covart Ames Center
Scott Meyer, Oregon Convention Center
Andrea Micci, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Bart Miller, Walter P Moore & Associates, Inc.
James Mooney, Overland Park Convention Center
Catherine Mordente, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Victoria Morgensai, Englert Civic Theatre
James Morris, The Ryan Center
Rose Mortillaro, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Erik Moses, RFK Stadium
Craig Mulcahy, America’s Center
Kathie Mulheron, Killeen Civic & Conference Center
Tom Murray, Charlotte Convention Center
Dan Myers, Wright State University Nutter Center
Tom Naylor, Mesa Arts Center
Jerry Nelms, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Andrew Newman, Howe Engineers, Inc.
Matt Nicoll, Portland’5 Centers for the Arts
Angela Nix, EverBank Field – Jacksonville Jaguars
Erika Norling, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Paul O’Connell, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Kristen O’Malley, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Sean Ornelas, Mesa Arts Center
Cindy Ornstein, Mesa Arts Center
Amanda Ortiz ,AT&T Center
Mike Otten, Chaifetz Arena
Cynthia Owens, Ryman Hospitality Properties
Mauro Palmero, University of Missouri – Columbia
Keil Pankonien, Curtis Culwell Center
Alec Pasquarella, Texas Performing Arts, University of Texas at Austin
Michelle Passi, Lexington Center Corporation
Beth Paul, Greenville Arena District
Robert Pelkey, DeJoria Center
Jennifer Perkins, Club Nokia
Frank Perrone, Prudential Center
Helmut Perzi, Civic Center Music Hall
Robert Peterson, Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
Jeanne Piazza, The David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts
Aldo Pigna, Prudential Center
Tim Pirnie, Oregon Convention Center
Matt Pizzuti, Oregon Convention Center
Deborah Pollard, Florida Tracks, Trails and Entertainment
Pamela Polsky, Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts & Corporate Presentations
Daniel Pote, Melbourne Stadiums Limited, Etihad Stadium
Greg Powell, Wright State University Nutter Center
Mark Pruett, Owensboro Convention Center
Anthony Pucci, Minneapolis Convention Center
Elvio Pugliese, Wireless Australia Pty Ltd
Sue Quinlan, FELD Entertainment
Kathryn Quinn, Carolina Theatre of Durham
Christopher Ragland, United Wireless Arena & Conference Center
Chelsea Raleigh, Palm Beach County Convention Center
Alyssa Rambeau, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Sam Ramirez, The Falls Event Center
Duane Randall, AT&T Center
Shane Randel, America’s Center
Darrell Rankin, Oregon Convention Center
Randy Rasmussen, Minneapolis Convention Center
Christine Raymond, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Justin Reed, MassMutual Center
Kara Reeves, STAPLES Center
Ron Rego, Sound View Electronics
Gary Reist, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Jeff Rhinevault, Rose Quarter
Scott Riesterer, Overland Park Convention Center
Henry Rivera, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Vanya Robinson, RFK Stadium
Micheal Robinson, Curtis Culwell Center
Mauricio Rodriguez, Expo Guadalajara
Richard Rodriguez, Fairplex
Yldefonso Rodriguez, Sola Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
Tchad Rogers, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Jason Rogien, Colorado State University
Tracy Roultson, Verizon Arena
Randy Rouse, AT&T Center
Jessica Rowe, Omaha Performing Arts
Benjamin Rowe, Xfinity Arena at Everett
McKenzie Rowley, NRG Park
Alicia Ruach, BMO Field
Matt Ruedlinger, Fanvious LLC
Donna Ruhm, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
William Rule, Zenith Hospitality Staffing Solutions
Aran Rush, Golden 1 Center
Christopher Russo, National Basketball Association
Marc Russo, Hayward Turnstiles
Shawn Samson, Goldenvoice
Dani Sanders, BancorpSouth Arena and Conference Center
Jim Sanfilippo, Nila Inc.
Kristen Sass, Hurst Conference Center
Andre Saucier, Palais Des Congres De Montreal
Emily Sayre, Prudential Center
Wayne Scarsella, Appetize
Brian Schafer, Service Management Systems
Jamie Scheffer, Owensboro Convention Center
Erin Schnieders, National Basketball Association
Kellen Schroeder, Overland Park Convention Center
Robert Schultz, Mesa Arts Center
Bill Schwartz, Deflecto
Jacqueline Scibelli, Cedar Park Center
Leon Scioscia, Music Center at Strathmore
Tony Serra, Midland Center for the Arts
Eric Setzer, Winthrop University
Brock Severs, University of New Haven
Scott Shacklett, Fairplex
Courtney Shanahan, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
April Shaw, Curtis Culwell Center
Blake Shelton, Curtis Culwell Center
Michele Shields, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Kyle Shoemake, Goodman Theatre
Brad Shron, Prudential Center
Fernando Shuya, Mesa Arts Center
Garry Sikora, Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts
Michael Silva, U.S. Cellular Center
Alan Simpson, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
John Siska, Civic Center Music Hall
Dan Skiver, Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Paul Smith, Washington State Convention Center
Eric Smith, RFK Stadium
Katie Smith, Minneapolis Convention Center
Dan Smoliak, Minneapolis Convention Center
Ronald Snead, AT&T Center
Paul Snell, Verizon Center
Adeola Sokunbi, Centennial Olympic Park
Christine Spiller, Pepsi Center
Leah Spinks, America’s Center
Kate Stadel, Goldcorp Centre for the Arts – Simon Fraser University
Nathaniel Stahlecker, RFK Stadium
Christine Steinberg, Prudential Center
Trish Stiles, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Bill Stratton, Oregon Convention Center
Scott Sumners, Rider Levett Bucknall
Heekyung Sung, Arizona State University
Bobby Sutherland, America’s Center
Bob Swanson, Minneapolis Convention Center
Samuel Swersky, Wolf Trap Filene Center
Gregory Taylor, University of Texas – El Paso
Paul Tazar, Premier Food Services
David Teig, Fairplex
Antonio Terron, Expo Reforma
Louise Thomas, Hult Center for the Performing Arts
Jessica Thurston, TEAM Coalition
Christopher Tiffney, Scotiabank Convention Centre
Belen Timmins, George R. Brown Convention Center
Ben Tjaden, Chaifetz Arena
Stephen Tolentino, The Baltimore Convention Center
Jeff Tracy, Oklahoma State Fair Park
Cindy Trevino, AT&T Center
Mark Tucci, Matting By Design
Tim Tumminello, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Ryan Turley Fox, Performing Arts Center & Riverside Municipal Auditorium
Pablo Urquilla, Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Luis Valdivia, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Nicole Vandenberg, Canucks Sports & Entertainment – Rogers Arena
Blake Vanderwoude, Sydney Motorsport Park
Jennifer Vara, AT&T Center
Cindy Vargo, Fox Theatre – St. Louis
Miguel Vasquez, Centro Banamex
Dan Veglahn, Overland Park Convention Center
Michael Vellotti, Phoenix Convention Center & Venues
Debbie Vengco, Fairplex
Christy Verbosky, TEAM Coalition
Jose Villalpando, AT&T Center
Rob Villanueva, Minneapolis Convention Center
Anne-Marie Villeneuve, Lansdown Stadium, Lansdown Park
Danny Vincens, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Rafael Viñoly-Menendez, LMN Architects
Twee Vuong, Broward County Convention Center
James Wade, Owensboro Convention Center
Cindy Wallace, Oregon Convention Center
John Wallace, Rose Quarter
Shannon Walsh, AT&T Center
Kandace Walton, INTRUST Bank Arena
Tao Wang, Ticketingbox
Hayley Ward, AT&T Performing Arts Center
William Watson, Irving Convention Center
Justin Watt, Dex-O-Tex by Crossfield Products
Michael Waxer, Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Todd Weber, AT&T Center
Cory Weisman, Hologram USA
Jordan Weitzman, Parking Panda
Oliad Weldesenbet, Minneapolis Convention Center
Christopher West, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Jake Whitcomb, AT&T Park – San Francisco Giants
Anthony Williams, The Baltimore Convention Center
Grant Williams, The Baltimore Convention Center
Carl Williams, Verizon Arena
Elaine Williams, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Peter Willis, Logan City Council, Mt Warren Sports Centre
Matt Wilson, Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex
Andrew Wisk, Wicomico Recreation, Parks & Tourism
Stephen Wolcott, Prudential Center
Sarah Wolfington, City of Woodward
Laura Woolworth, Mayo Civic Center
Pat Wright, Fairplex
Tom Wunderlin, ITW Engineered Polymers
Erin Wyle, Kennesaw State University Sports and Entertainment Park
Chris Wynn, Lansdown Stadium, Lansdown Park
Nicole Young, Houston First Corporation
Jean Yu, Ticketingbox
Kate Zanetti, AEG Ogden (Perth Arena) Pty Ltd
Mark Zirbel, Minneapolis Convention Center

(Image: Judy ** via photopin cc)

The post Welcome, New IAVM Members! appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

JustOne: This leadership recruitment campaign was launched at VenueConnect in Baltimore this year. The goal is to have every IAVM volunteer recruit one new member. The IAVM Membership Committee feels we can achieve our goal of 100 percent volunteer participation by March 31, 2016. Of our 231 volunteers, 14 committee members have recruited 57 new members that equal 8 percent participation. The Membership Committee is leading with 17 new members.

Committee members leading the JustOne campaign effort through today are:

If your name isn’t listed above, please encourage someone to join. We are confident we can reach 100 percent participation by our leadership. The member and committee who brings in the most members will be recognized at VenueConnect in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We will continue to send updates each month.

We are thrilled with our progress thus far. We sincerely appreciate your efforts in helping your association grow and add more diverse and talented individuals to our membership. If you have any questions or perhaps your referral did not list your name, please let me know. Thank you!

The post JustOne – IAVM Membership Campaign Update appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

We as an association get to make some exciting decisions in 2016 regarding future conference strategies. I encourage each of you to join our members-only IAVM webinar on January 6 so your IAVM leadership and IAVM staff can share data that will lay out relevant information your board is currently pondering.

We have been presenting this same data to various committees in order to gather input and feedback from as many of you as possible. Our hope is a webinar may work for many that have not had the opportunity as of yet to see and hear the shared information.

At the end of January, the IAVM Board of Directors will meet in Dallas to hear further information that has been requested of staff. The goal is to make a decision as to the best course of action for the future of our conferences. The action decided upon will not affect conferences in 2016.

The board takes its responsibility seriously and wants as much feedback as we can gather so the end result will be a positive, forward movement for our association, for our members, and a clear direction for our CEO and staff as it relates to the future of our conference structure.

Please join us January 6, 2016 at 4pm EST!

Sign up now.

The post Greetings Members and a Happy New Year to Each of You appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

We are excited to let you know that Daymond John will be our opening keynote speaker at VenueConnect 2016 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 23-26.

John is the CEO of FUBU, a “shark” on ABC’s Shark Tank, and author of the new book, The Power of Broke. He will offer attendees his expert view on growing business, leveraging technology, and harnessing desperation and adversity to build powerful, meaningful brands. He has received more than 35 awards over the years, including the Brandweek Marketer of the Year, Advertising Age Marketing 1000 Award for Outstanding Ad Campaign, and Ernst & Young’s New York Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Last year, the White House appointed him Global Ambassador of Entrepreneurship as part of the PAGE Program where he will work with underserved entrepreneurs and emerging digital influencers to help them build customer bases and brands.

VenueConnect 2016 registration will open soon. In the meantime, sign up now to be notified when early-bird rates become available. See you in Minneapolis!

The post Daymond John Announced as VenueConnect Keynote Speaker appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Volunteers are at the heart of what we do, and it is only because of the time and knowledge our volunteers contribute that we are able to fulfill our mission. We hope, therefore, that you will consider responding to this Committee Call for Volunteers.

As a volunteer, you will be making a difference to this industry and giving back to other members. We hope you will also get value out of your service, making connections with other IAVM leaders and learning about the issues that face us all.

IAVM has two types of committees: board committees and management committees. A board committee helps the board do its work of oversight, strategy and member engagement. Management committees help IAVM’s management do its work of meeting the board’s goals and effectively operating the association to the benefit of our members.

On the website, you will find the list of opportunities available and the volunteer roles and responsibilities for each. To volunteer, please follow the link to complete the survey and tell us where your interest, skills, and abilities will allow you to make the greatest contribution. Even if you currently serve on a committee and wish to continue, you must indicate your interest on this application to be considered for renewal, as all committee appointments have one-year terms and term limits. You may indicate your interest for no more than three committees, so please make sure that you rank your choices with 1 being your highest preference. Finally, given the level of interest in service, we can generally only place you on one committee with some exceptions, such as the Industry Affairs Committee, which is partially filled by specified representatives (sector directors of the board, for example).

The deadline to respond to the Committee Call for Volunteers is Feb. 26, 2016; appointments to board committees will be made by the First Vice Chair, while appointments to management committees will be made by the CEO in consultation with the committee chairs and vice chairs. Volunteers will be notified of their committee assignment by the end of April/first of May.

IAVM welcomes your expertise and commitment to our active and talented group of volunteers. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

The post Committee Call for Volunteers appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

We all know it’s tough to get away from the building to attend IAVM functions when you’re still low on the totem pole. We know funds are tight, especially when you’re still in school. No worries. IAVM is bringing the networking to you.

The Young Professionals Committee is dedicated to finding new and innovative ways to engage the under-30 membership base. One of these ways is by hosting quarterly “Hangouts” with industry veterans. This quarter, we’ll be having a conversation with John Siehl, CFE, vice president and COO of VenuWorks, on Wednesday, January 20, 1-1:45 p.m. (EST). From current security trends facing our industry to what he looks for in job applicants, John will chat with us for 45 minutes with the opportunity for everyone on the call to ask a question. We’ll also be simulcasting conversation on YouTube if you’re unable to get into the video chat.

Please sign-up here to join the hangout and let us know if you want to be one of the eight face-to-face participants. You can also choose just to view the interview. We hope to see you there!

(Image: Joe the Goat Farmer/Creative Commons)

The post Google Hangout: The YP Connection, Featuring John Siehl, CFE appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Please welcome our newest members who joined IAVM in November and December 2015—a total of 221 new members. Thank you for being a part of the association!

Also, let us get to know you better by participating in the I Am Venue Management series. Please visit http://www.iavm.org/i-am-venue-management-share-your-story to share your story and photo.

November 2015
Stan Allen, City of Henderson
Barbara Beaton, NRG Park
James Blitch, PNC Arena
Ashley Boaz, Western Kentucky University
Jack Brockman, PNC Arena
John Cassidy, Western Kentucky University
Mary Castellanos, Fairplex
Monte Chavez, SAP Center at San Jose
Roderick Collins, Toyota Center
Aaron Cosby, Western Kentucky University
Aryon Crockett, Toyota Center
Robert Dahlem, Matrix Payment Systems
Cameron DeBose, Orlando Venues
Corey Decker, Fairplex
Richard Denney, The Public Theater
Andrew Devins, Western Kentucky University
Chris Diamond, PNC Arena
John Dickerson, Western Kentucky University
Robert Douglas, PNC Arena
Michael Drummond, Toyota Center
Cedrick Edwards, Toyota Center
Jordyn Elwell, South Towne Exposition Center
Sandee Fancher, Fairplex
Alfred Gilbert, Western Kentucky University
Joshua Hardyman, Western Kentucky University
Amanda Horning, Orlando Venues
Mallory Izbicki, Western Kentucky University
Anna Johnson, Western Kentucky University
Byron Johnson, Toyota Center
Eunjoo Kang, Purdue University
Jonathan Kramer, PNC Arena
Eric Lariviere, Flato Markham Theatre
Ryan Lewis, Western Kentucky University
Heather Lightsey, Emerald Coast Convention Center
Tim Long, Fairplex
Timothy Lytle, University of Alabama, Department of Theatre and Dance
Lori Maas, Wenger Corporation
Britt Mahan, University of Alabama, Department of Theatre and Dance
Eric Marglous, Toyota Center
Courtnei Martin, Toyota Center
Eric Martin, Toyota Center
Donald Mason, Lyric Theatre
Mike McCarroll, SAP Center at San Jose
Frankie McGee, PNC Arena
Rick Medina, South Towne Exposition Center
Molly Moser, Abilene Civic Center
Deb Mulch, Burlington Memorial Auditorium
Shaun Nicholson, PNC Arena
Zach Nicholson, South Towne Exposition Center
Bill Nowicki, PNC Arena
Ryan Osenton, SAP Center at San Jose
Crystal Pace, PNC Arena
Greg Poole, Toyota Center
Edgar Portillo, Toyota Center
E. S. Ramey, Western Kentucky University
Richard Rhodes, PNC Arena
Ryan Riess, Resch Center
Daniel Riggi, Western Kentucky University
Lauren Roderick, Western Kentucky University
Sharlene Romero, South Towne Exposition Center
Tammy Roush, Fairplex
Mark Rowley, South Towne Exposition Center
Amy Saint-Pierre, EventPro Software
Bryant Savage, Toyota Center
Megan Savary, EagleBank Arena
Emma Schenkenberger, University of Alabama, Department of Theatre and Dance
Andre Scott, Western Kentucky University
Hunter Segesta, Toyota Center
Frank Segro, Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
Carlos Sepulveda, Toyota Center
Sarah Silva, Toyota Center
Amanda Skinner, Western Kentucky University
Joseph Sousa, PNC Arena
Craig Stover, PNC Arena
Amanda Strudler-Mann, Toyota Center
Sarah Tarbett, EverBank Field – Jacksonville Jaguars
Hillary Thomas, Toyota Center
Rebecca Traylor, Toyota Center
Jaclyn Turner, Western Kentucky University
Parker Vick, Western Kentucky University
Stephan Vizina, Centennial Terrace and Quarry
Donald Waddell, PNC Arena
Kristina Wallace, Western Kentucky University
Mandy Walsh, Toyota Center
Doug Warf, PNC Arena
Jennifer Wilson, Western Kentucky University
Caleb Winders, Western Kentucky University
Alan Wobbleton, PNC Arena
Jared Wright, PNC Arena
Linda Zammit, Fairplex
Matt Zion, Fairplex

December 2015
Michael Anderson, The Fabulous Fox – St. Louis
Jon Applegate, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Kevin Baird, Rose Quarter
Heidi Baird, Salt Palace Convention Center
Emory Ballhagen, Iowa State Center
Martin Barker, Valley View Casino Center
Jessica Beckmann, Chaifetz Arena
Laura Bennett, Frank Erwin Center
Ellen Benzing, Kentucky Exposition Center
Clark Bertloff, Kentucky Exposition Center
Missy Borton, Iowa State Center
Chris Brawner, Kentucky Exposition Center
Mike Broich, Iowa State Center
Anthony Brown, AQB Protection Services
Howard Brown, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Dave Burrack, Iowa State Center
Adam Call, Oklahoma City University
Alexandra Capitolo, AT&T Park – San Francisco Giants
Andrew Chism, Chaifetz Arena
Mark Cornia, Salt Palace Convention Center
Andre Cote, Saputo Stadium
Anna Cramer, University of Wisconsin – Madison
David Daly, Kennesaw State University
Barry David, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Marissa Deckert, Rose Quarter
Monica Delgado, Frank Erwin Center
Pat Dennis, Iowa State Center
Jared Devine, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Darla Disner, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Anthony Downs, FELD Entertainment
Linda Edwards, Kentucky Exposition Center
Jeremy Emig, Bridgestone Arena
Debbie Erbacher, University of Montana
Jim Erickson, Kentucky Exposition Center
Jake Ewalt, Iowa State Center
Nathan Fergus, Lansing Center
Jim Ferrera, Kentucky Exposition Center
Steve Flack, Iowa State Center
Scott Fluhr, Kentucky Exposition Center
Christopher Ford, Frank Erwin Center
Dexter Foxworth, Jefferson County Fairgrounds
Brett Fraser, Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Michael Furtado, Frank Erwin Center
Adrian Galindo, Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts, UC Davis
Curtis Gamble, Kentucky Exposition Center
Mike Garcia, Salt Palace Convention Center
Katie Ginapp, Iowa State Center
Jerry Gingrich, Clark County Event Center
Walter Grimes, Frank Erwin Center
Steve Harder, Iowa State Center
Chad Henderson, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Zach Hensley, CenturyLink Field – Seattle Seahawks
Paul Herberg, Kentucky Exposition Center
Tim Hinderks, Iowa State Center
Sean Hochberg, Bridgestone Arena
Colin Holman, Ford Center Evansville
Mike Huber, Frank Erwin Center
Melissa Johnson, Iowa State Center
Pat Jordan, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Mary Kelly, 22nd DAA/San Diego County Fairgrounds
Steve Kelly, Kentucky Exposition Center
Kevin Kobi, Rogers Place
Dave Kubena, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Elizabeth Land, Frank Erwin Center
Frantzer Le Blanc, Bob Carpenter Center University of Delaware
Anthony Leachman, Kentucky Exposition Center
Melanie Lee, Major League Baseball
Darren Lee, Salt Palace Convention Center
Gina Leoni, Los Angeles Philharmonic
James Lewis, West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Greg Lioon, Frank Erwin Center
Tony Lopez, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Chad Ludkey, Bridgestone Arena
Lori Marshall, Cow Palace
Erik Marvin, Kentucky Exposition Center
Stephen McBride, Frank Erwin Center
Kevin McCoy, Kentucky Exposition Center
Rachel McGruder, Frank Erwin Center
Gary Melikian, Kentucky Exposition Center
Kevin Moore, Kentucky Exposition Center
Sheila Murphy, Victory Theater
Zach Myhra, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Josh Oakland, Iowa State Center
Courtney Oakley, Chaifetz Arena
Chuck Olney, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Joseph Padua, David H. Koch Theater
David Patrone, Kentucky Exposition Center
Stephen Patrone, Kentucky Exposition Center
Charles Paul, Frank Erwin Center
Leticia Pena, San Jose Theaters
Bob Pless, Walton Arts Center/ Walmart AMP
Tim Postlethwait, Kentucky Exposition Center
Dustin Powell, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
Karry Prendergast, Corporation of Massey Hall & Roy Thomson Hall
Detlef Preuer, Salt Palace Convention Center
Sara Quick, FELD Entertainment
Thomas Ramirez, Frank Erwin Center
Catherine Ramirez, Frank Erwin Center
Pamela Roberson, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Sam Ruth, Kentucky Exposition Center
Christopher Salazar, Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco 49’ers
Gina San Agustin, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Joseph Sanders, UNC Charlotte
Darren Sattewhite, Salt Palace Convention Center
Phillip Scott, Frank Erwin Center
Christine Scott-Laakso, Frank Erwin Center
Matt Shine, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Mary Shipley, Salt Palace Convention Center
Brett Siebel, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Stephanie Simpson, Walton Arts Center/ Walmart AMP
Adam Small, Salt Palace Convention Center
Amanda Storment, Kentucky Exposition Center
Amy Thomas, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Tara Vela, Frank Erwin Center
John Vlieger, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Norman Vossschulte, Philadelphia Eagles Lincoln Financial Field
Thomas Waldron, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Angie Weeks, Iowa State Center
J. James White, Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Scott White, Salt Palace Convention Center
Al Whitman, Salt Palace Convention Center
Craig Wiebke, Iowa State Center
Gianna Wilkins, Pasadena Convention Center
Harrison Williams, Walton Arts Center/ Walmart AMP
Ronald Willner, Kellogg Arena
Adrien Wingard, Adams Center University of Montana
Heather Wininger, Owensboro Convention Center
Anna Wong, Frank Erwin Center
Daniel Zausner, U.S.T.A. National Tennis Center
Austin Zilis, Sports Authority Field at Mile High

(photo credit: Jimmy_Joe via photopin cc)

The post Welcome, New IAVM Members! appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

Guests. Fans. Attendees. Whatever you choose to call them, they’re all the same: humans. And a human’s experience during an event is paramount to your venue’s success. We want to help you be successful, and that is why we focus on people so much at our annual GuestX conference.

“IAVM is pleased to announce a conference built on ‘smart practices’ regarding the guest/fan experience,” said Mark Herrera, IAVM’s director of education. “We are honored to have a session that will highlight what our guests from the professional leagues are doing to monitor the fan experience and ensure consistency across their organizations.”

The session Herrera mentions will feature representatives from the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball, and Major League Soccer (MLS) who will discuss the most important element of any event day: the human element. When the unpredictable happens, your people, your team members, are the ones who will respond based on your proper, and prior, planning and training. During this panel session, attendees will hear about and discuss incidents from all types of venues related to guest service recovery from the perspective of those having to deliver it.

Larry Bowman, vice president of stadium operations and security for the Atlanta Braves, will moderate a panel that includes Robert Gallo, vice president, club business development, NFL; Paul LaVeau, stadium director, stadium operations, Oakland Athletics; and Jeff Stonebreaker, security advisor, MLS. More panelists will be named later.

“League representatives attending our past GuestX Conference were able to also take back ideas from the venue industry that were incorporated into their respective business plans,” Herrera said. “Again, the focus from this session will be on fan/guest interaction and also how to plan for the unpredictable and assess options in the moment to create an immediate recovery when issues arise. The session is focused on creating a winning fan experience.”

Other GuestX content includes a session on creating successful front line supervisors, excellent customer service the Ritz-Carlton way, and an off-site exercise for attendees at American Airlines Center. Check out the GuestX for the full schedule and to register to attend.

The post Understanding the Human Experience at Events appeared first on International Association of Venue Managers.

2015 VenueConnect interns.

2015 was a year that really fostered my development as a young professional in the entertainment and venue industry. I did two event internships, one in Sydney, Australia, for a company called Business Chicks and another through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks. Fortunately, 2015 was also the year when I got involved with the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). Being a student in my senior year, it was hands down the best decision I made for my career and future in the industry.

I attended and interned at two conferences, VenueConnect in Baltimore, Maryland, and the International Convention Center Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. The IAVM Foundation helped me fund these learning experiences and gave me the opportunity to network with industry leaders through the Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship Program. I made connections and developed relationships that were essential to my growth and success. The people of IAVM were not only supportive but eager to build up young leaders and were always there to lend a hand. Many doors have opened through being a student intern at these conferences. Additionally, the industry knowledge I attained through these conferences is astonishing. Being able to participate in discussions and attend cutting-edge sessions on current trends helped me understand the industry in a whole new light.

I have since graduated from Missouri State with an entertainment management degree and moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career. With the help of the people I met through IAVM, I am more than ecstatic to say that I got a job as the events and talent coordinator at the Grand Ole Opry House. I owe a lot to the IAVM Foundation for helping me achieve my goals to be able to work with a company I admire so much doing exactly what I am most passionate about. I could easily say that I got my dream job, and I am so excited for what the future holds and send my greatest gratitude to this organization.

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The first installment of the YP Connection features VenuWorks Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Siehl, CFE. As a member of IAVM for more than 38 years, Siehl served as chairman of the Board of Directors from 2010-2011, been a long-standing faculty member at Venue Management School, and is the current chair for the Academy for Venue Safety & Security (AVSS). Thank you to all the participants and to John for helping lead a lively and informative discussion.

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Like many others, I felt such a strong sense of belonging at the 2015 IAVM VenuConnect conference that I was disappointed it had ended so quickly. However, since then, I have had incredible opportunities to continue learning more about my industry from leaders whose footsteps I intend to follow.

In the last few months, I have shadowed and have set-up informative interviews with multiple professionals from institutions and venues such as the University of Delaware, Citi Field, Stony Brook University, Prudential Center, MetLife Stadium, and Wagner College. These experiences have allowed me to see the operations of multiple collegiate and professional organizations, which I can bring with me as I begin my new job as the operations supervisor at the VenuWorks Bridge View Center in Ottumwa, Iowa.

IAVM conferences are great ways in which young professionals can demonstrate their passion, gather knowledge, and prove their commitment to the industry. For me, it led me to my new job within VenuWorks and it has allowed me to become involved with the Young Professionals Committee where I’m able to promote the industry I’m so passionate about while creating networking and educational opportunities for myself and the members of our group. In addition, the conference gave me the opportunity to become a trained crowd manager, which I can proudly display on my resume and LinkedIn profile.

In the sports and entertainment industry, things are never quiet and being a member of IAVM I have multiple outlets to ensure I continue the upwards climb in my career. I have become a mentee in the Mentor Connector Program, and I soon plan to check items off my checklist to pursue my Certified Venue Professional designation. To all college students and/or fellow young professionals contemplating whether or not to join IAVM, attend a conference, or become further involved by joining a committee, I hope my article can help you see all that IAVM can offer you and more. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

(Image: Orange Photography)

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The IAVM Foundation is proud to announce the Joseph A. Floreano Scholarship + Internship Program recipients for the 2016 Academy for Venue Safety & Security (AVSS) school. The awards recognize two deserving individuals who demonstrate leadership, character, community involvement, and the potential to be future leaders in the venue management industry. Kevin Henry is also returning as the Year 2 scholarship recipient.

AVSS Year 1 + 2 Scholarship Recipient

Mike Santa, general manager at Indiana University Event Services

Favorite team? The Green Bay Packers.

Favorite sports or entertainment memory? Before I was a venue manager, I worked for the IU Basketball team. While I have some incredible memories from that experience, my all-time favorite was being part of the 2013 Big Ten Championship!

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? I think I would be a lion. I like the idea of being king of the jungle but also having a pack to rely on as well.

If you could be any superhero, who would you be and why? Batman for sure. He is the ultimate superhero, yet still just a man. Plus he gets to play with cool gadgets and cars.

What is your ultimate dream job in the industry? I would love to be the GM of a building someday. My ultimate dream job is to be the tournament director of the Mau Invitational and spend all my time in Hawaii preparing.

Favorite quote? “Confidence is contagious. So is lack of confidence.” – Vince Lombardi.

Do you currently volunteer with IAVM? What do you enjoy most about it? I am currently on the Young Professionals Committee. It’s been fun working with other YPs on projects to help bring IAVM to a younger generation of venue managers.

Favorite childhood snack? Any kind of candy but Mike & Ike’s are the best!

@Twitter handle? @mwsanta

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-santa-8305226a

AVSS Student Intern

Johnny Roe, Missouri State University – Entertainment Management

Anticipated Graduation? Fall 2016.

 Favorite team? Die-hard Kansas City sports fan.

Favorite sports or entertainment memory? The Kansas City Royals winning the 2015 World Series.

If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? A wolf. They know when to lead and when to follow. They have a small circle and know how to survive when they are by themselves.

If you could be any superhero, what would you be and why? Batman. He made himself a hero, didn’t have to have some crazy mutation to be great. (Helped that he had billions of dollars to inherit, though.)

What is your ultimate dream job in the industry? General Manager of a Major League Baseball team. There are only 30 of them so the odds are not in my favor, but someone has to be one of 30 so why not me?

Favorite Quote? “Courage is not the absence of fear, it is the ability to act in the presence of fear.” – Bruce Lee.

Favorite childhood snack? Anything my mom cooks! She is the Michael Jordan of the kitchen.

@Twitter handle? @roeboat11 — I know, puns are incredible.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-roe-9aaa43b9

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It is a privilege and an honor to serve this association in my new capacity as interim president and CEO. Please know I admire and greatly respect the passion IAVM members have for this industry. My promise to you is that I, and your talented staff team, will meet this latest challenge and continue to move the association forward.

Our primary area of focus will be to make our existing programs the best they can be. Our initial goal is to have IAVM reach two “Best Ever” milestones in the coming months. The first milestone target is that AVSS, our safety and security academy, will generate the highest total revenue in the 10-year history of the program. Secondly, PAMC is on track to reach its highest total revenue in the 24-year history of the program. These accomplishments are vitally important to us, as success has a way of building confidence, creativity, and morale, which are all qualities that enable us to better serve you.

Two additional areas of focus will be the exciting new efforts we have with the branding and conference strategy initiatives. The results of these initiatives will be presented at VenueConnect 2016 in Minneapolis. The entire staff team is excited about sharing these initiatives and the potential they have in driving IAVM’s future.

I appreciate the vote of confidence and support our team has received from the IAVM Board of Directors. We also want you, the members of IAVM, to know that we are committed to serving you and to continue to move this association forward.

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