ASAE Unveils Stellar Line Up of Speakers for Annual Meeting
April 1, 2013
How to work with introverts and make decisions not based on personal biases are just two of the topics that will be tackled by keynote speakers at the American Society of Association Executives’ 2013 Annual Meeting & Exposition Aug. 3-6 in Atlanta.
ASAE’s opening general speaker Susan Cain, author of “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking”, will give advice on how to develop leaders, manage teams, make smart hires, and stimulate innovation, as well as how to structure an organization so the best ideas dominate, rather than those from the most vocal and assertive.
With one third to half of the world’s workforce comprised of introverts, it’s critical for organizations to learn how introverts think and work in ways that are crucial to the survival of today’s organization.
For the Closing General Session, Dan Heath, a senior fellow at Duke University’s CASE Center, as well as co-author of two New York Times bestsellers, “Made to Stick” and “Switch”, will discuss how our decisions are disrupted by an array of biases and irrationalities, and how we seek out information that supports us and downplays information that doesn’t.
He will introduce a four-step process designed to counteract these biases, share stories, and give attendees fresh strategies and practical tools that will enable them to make better choices.
“We wanted to focus on enhancing our members’ leadership skills as well as helping them find new creative and innovative ways to move their association to the next level,” said ASAE President & CEO John H. Graham IV, CAE.
He added, “Both Cain and Heath are dynamic, smart, strategic thinkers who will convey unique perspectives in how to manage leaders and think differently in how we make our decisions. These and other education sessions will provide attendees with an enlightening experience.”
There are even more speakers on tap who will take part in Game Changer sessions:
· Kat Cole, president of Cinnabon
· Bob Kupbens, vice president of Marketing & Digital Commerce for Delta
· John Spence, business thought leader and author of the book, “Awesomely Simple”
For more information on the more than 120 education sessions, registration, hotel and travel and networking events, please visit ASAE’s Web site.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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