Tradeshow Industry Trailblazer Jerry Kallman Passes Away
May 26, 2020
Typically, TSNN would write a straightforward news article on a long-time member of our industry’s passing - Gerald G. "Jerry" Kallman, Sr. – Jan. 10, 1931 - May 20, 2020 (age 89.)
In these times we are in, and because of the person Jerry was overall, I wanted to write something a bit more personal.
I have been incredibly lucky to have some great mentors in this industry during the years – Jerry was one of them.
Early on, he opened my eyes and taught me quite a bit about the international trade show industry. He was a trailblazer in areas all around the world for exhibitions.
Here is an excerpt from his obituary of just a small bit of what he accomplished in his decades-long career:
In 1961, Jerry founded Kallman Associates, a one-man consultancy firm that would become a world-renowned international trade show management company.
A global traveler, very often accompanied by life-partner Lorraine, Jerry organized trade events on six continents establishing relationships and forging friendships wherever he traveled.
For nearly four-decades he represented the German State of Bavaria and the Munich Trade Fair organization. His success in fostering trade between the U.S. and Germany earned him both the “Key to the City” of Munich and the country’s highest honor given to non-German citizens, the Federal Cross of Merit.
In the United States, Jerry was recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards by every major trade fair industry association.
Most of all, Jerry was an incredibly kind person.
On a promotion I received not too long ago, Jerry wrote in an email subject line ‘Atta Girl!’ and said, “Just got wind of your appointment and want to add my congrats to those of your many friends and colleagues. I am sure there will be new challenges and opportunities, just as I am certain you will meet and exceed each. Best wishes, Jerry Kallman”
He was one of those people who never met a stranger and will be greatly missed.
Thoughts and prayers to his friends and family.
Jerry’s tribute page is here if anyone would like to leave a message: https://www.feeneyfuneralhome.com/tributes/Gerald-Kallman
The family also appreciates your condolences and humbly suggests any donations to the Ridgewood Rotary Foundation’s Kishermoruak Primary School. https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=CTSTN7L6NF5QL&source=url
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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