Ever wondered how your most memorable student events were made? Well, in this episode of Great Events, host Rachel Andrews and Stacey Sheppard are joined by Sam Bethel, University of San Francisco’s Digital Communications Manager, and they cover just that.  They discuss how the University of San Francisco centralizes its approach to event planning and execution to ensure a seamless, branded experience from student orientation to alumni reunions. Sam shares strategies for leveraging event technology like Cvent to streamline operations, encourage student engagement and participation, and ..read more

You may think university events are just a small, normal piece of a university's student life and marketing plan.  But what if we told you that it's actually vital to create a long-lasting relationship with that student, who then continues into their journey as a professional adult and alumnus? This is why we’re dedicating a special two-part episode of Great Events to investigating the impact of events on education. Join us as Host Alyssa Peltier sits down to discuss this unique topic with Stacey Sheppard, Senior Manager of Solutions Marketing at Cvent.  In part one of our conver ..read more

What does a successful event really boil down to? Effective planning and preparation.  Join Paulina Giusti and Robin Clark, Senior Manager of Trade Shows and Event Marketing at Cvent, as they delve into sales enablement and engagement, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between marketing and sales. Robin gives an insider look at how detailed tracking of the attendee experience at Cvent CONNECT — encompassing session engagement, survey feedback, and appointments — equips sales reps with the narratives they need for follow-up that resonates. We discuss setting clear, actionable goal ..read more

Have you made a habit of prioritizing sustainability?  In the events industry, it’s much-discussed, but action is key. As Great Events host Alyssa Peltier says, “When it comes to sustainability, a zero excuses policy is the best policy.”  In this episode, Alyssa joins fellow hosts Rachel Andrews and Felicia Asiedu to discuss insights shared by Cassidy Knowles, Group Managing Director of Chorus Creative Group.  From Chorus's spectacular sustainability efforts to the small steps each individual can take, this conversation is packed with actionable advice.  Here are a few ..read more

Content doesn't have to go to waste.  Rather, its shelf life and value can increase over time. In this episode of Great Events, join host Felicia Asiedu and content strategist Victoria Akinsowon as they dive deep into the art of repurposing event content.  They discuss practical tips for identifying the most resonant event themes/messages and how to repurpose them into various formats––from turning event sessions into engaging blog posts to creating captivating video snippets for social media. They also tap into the significance of audience feedback and use real-time insights from ..read more

Why does Group Travel matter so much?   In a world full of Zoom and digital dial-ins, what makes in-person connection so essential?  Well, in this episode of Great Events, hosts Rachel Andrews and Felicia Asiedu discuss those very questions—and usher in Global Meetings Industry Day— with Ishma Haider, VP of Group Travel at the US Travel Association.  From defining the whats and whys of the Association to the broader roles of advocacy and in-person global events, it’s the perfect conversation to kick off GMID 2024.  Here are some key takeaways: There are a wide variety ..read more

What are you doing to improve the effectiveness of your SKO event planning? In this episode of Great Events, join host Alyssa Peltier as she dives into a discussion with Caroline DeCamp and Becca Martinson from Morningstar. They share their insights and experiences in planning and executing Sales Kickoffs (SKOs) and other large-scale events.  The conversation covers various aspects of SKO planning, including challenges related to attendance, scaling content regionally, engaging stakeholders, measuring event success, and planning for the future.  Whether you aim to make your events ..read more

It's not just about logistics—it’s about crafting event narratives that truly resonate with your audience. This is a philosophy that @Traci DePuy, CMO of PCMA, encourages us to follow.  In this episode of Great Events, @Rachel Andrews and Traci explore crafting impactful experiences and professional growth within the events industry.  Traci reveals the multifaceted nature of event success, weaving together strategic alignment, technological innovation, and personal development.  She discusses the critical elements that contribute to the success of impactful events. Using exa ..read more

A rising tide lifts all boats.  That’s the perspective Cat Kevern, Director of Electric Cat Productions and Chair of NOWIE (The Network of Women in Events), brings to promoting women in the events industry. Rather than shaming or alienating others, Cat invites everyone to elevate women and strongly believes in the power of allyship. In this episode, Cat discusses how NOWIE is fostering a supportive community for women and setting industry standards. Cat also shares her journey from starting out as a freelancer to establishing her own business, offering valuable insights into navigating ..read more

Building personal connections in the workplace is the best way to boost collaboration and productivity. Especially for those in mid-management looking to shine within their projects. And in this episode, Paulina Giusti takes center stage, sharing her wisdom and insights for those looking to climb the corporate ladder. She discusses the importance of ensuring that hard work gets the recognition it deserves, taking ownership of projects, and actively seeking feedback that leads to director-level promotions.  You’ll hear success stories from organizing massive virtual events and explorin ..read more