Lawson Hockman Selected as 2015 IAEE Legend of the Industry; Krakoff Leadership Institute Wraps Up in Palm Beach
August 18, 2015
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events completed its Krakoff Leadership Institute and Krakoff Advanced Leadership Institute, held Aug. 15-18, at the Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Fla.
Each two-day program provided a highly interactive curriculum that develops participants' leadership skills through group participation.
In addition, IAEE selected a "Legend of the Industry" whose contributions, innovation and leadership have been truly unique and remarkable.
An informal setting then allowed each participant face-to-face interaction with this industry leader.
This year's "Legend" is Lawson Hockman, CEM, vice president industry relations, IMN Solutions.
After 45 years in the exhibitions and events industry, Hockman's experience spans the non- and for-profit arenas in all areas of management and development with a strong emphasis on association operations and financial management, convention/trade show management, membership development, marketing, sales and publications management.
"Lawson is a greatly accomplished member of the industry and indelible source of knowledge," said 2015 IAEE Chairperson Megan Tanel, CEM. "The wisdom he imparted regarding creating a network with your peers and building relationships with your suppliers will serve as a valuable asset to this year's institute graduates as they continue to hone their leadership skills."
In his role at IMN Solutions, Hockman consults with clients on association management, trade show and meeting management, sales and marketing, vendor selection and vendor contract negotiation, and advance and on-site management.
Prior to joining IMN Solutions in 2000, he was COO for the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), where he managed the day-to-day operations.
Prior to ADAA, Hockman was COO for the Environmental Industry Associations (EIA), where he was responsible for overall operations including financial management and oversight, personnel administration, meetings, exhibitions, educational programs, membership, marketing and publications.
Prior to joining EIA in 1989, he was with the National Electrical Association (NECA) for more than 19 years, holding positions as membership director, convention/exposition director and assistant director for Labor Relations.
Hockman is an Air Force veteran and a graduate of Shepherd University.
Graduates of the 2015 Krakoff Leadership Institute will be recognized at Expo! Expo! IAEE's Annual Meeting & Exhibition to be held Dec. 1-3 in Baltimore, Md.
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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