#ExhibitionsDay Hosts Record 125 Attendees, 100 Meetings on Capitol Hill
June 12, 2018
This year’s #ExhibitionsDay, held June 5-6 in Washington, D.C., drew a record-breaking 125 trade show professionals to Capitol Hill to meet with congressional representatives in more than 100 meetings.
“2018 marked a record year for Exhibitions Day in Washington, D.C. with 125 attendees and 100 meetings on the Hill. The four areas of focus during all of our conversations with Congressional members and staff were Hotel Anti-Scam Legislation, Safety and Security, Global Travel Facilitation and Airport Infrastructure Enhancements,” said IAEE president and CEO, David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA.
He added, “The U.S. exhibitions industry is strong with $91 billion being contributed to the national GDP in 2017. Advocating for our industry and meeting with federal lawmakers affects positive change and increases awareness of our importance in the global marketplace.”
Attendees came from all over the United States to meet with their local reps to talk about the pressing issues in the trade show industry.
The event kicked off June 5 with an opening reception before everyone hit Capitol Hill the next day.
HERE is video coverage from CNTV on the event.
Here are a few quotes from participants:
“I loved attending #ExhibitionsDay! Walking around the different buildings on Capitol Hill really made me feel like I was part of the Democratic process.” - Amy Durkin, CEM, CMP, director of events, National Catholic Educational Association
“Las Vegas is a top travel destination and exhibitions and events are key to driving visitation. Exhibitions Day provides a great opportunity to interact with valued partners and decision makers to highlight the importance of our industry and what it contributes to the overall economy.” - Alex Land, CEM, sales executive, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
“The opportunity to share the message with congressional leaders that our industry represents $91 million is powerful. The fact that over 100 industry professionals are aligned and spreading the importance of our issues on one day is rewarding.” - Angi Van Berg, CEM, vice president of Trade Show Sales, Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau
Besides the advocacy in D.C., there were events held all over the U.S. including at IAEE chapters in Northern California, New York and the Midwest to name a few.
In addition, there were a bevy of tweets under the #ExhibitionsDay hashtag from destinations like Columbus and Las Vegas, as well as companies such as T3 Expo and a2z, Inc.
Want to share your story on why face to face works on the Exhibitions Mean Business web site? Go HERE
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
Add new comment