2009 Merit Scholarship Recipient Allison Boyd

How did you become involved with ISES Rhode Island?

I first became involved with ISES as a student member in 2005, while pursuing a degree in Sports/Entertainment/Event Management at Johnson & Wales University. Then ISES-RI President-Elect, Jim Verity, approached the university with a plan to cultivate student membership, and I jumped at the opportunity! A native Georgian, I knew not a soul when I first moved up here; ISES would provide me with experience and build industry relationships you cannot earn with a degree.

Are you a member of any committees within the chapter?

After graduation, I found I wanted to stay active with the local ISES-RI chapter and joined the Education and Programs Committee. Since, I have also worked on the committee for the Halloween Bash, and continue my rapport with ISES student membership and Johnson & Wales Special Events Society.

Why did you apply for the 2009 ISES Rhode Island Leadership & Education Merit Award?

When I first heard that our chapter would be offering the merit scholarship for the first time this year, I knew I had to apply! I had heard so many great things about past EventWorld conferences, I did not want to miss out on San Francisco.

What did you take away from your participation in EventWorld 2009?

The 2009 conference seminars offered something for everyone! Some of them included tips for social to corporate events, website and ISES community analytics, and navigating your business through these tough economic times. Allow me to highlight a few of the education sessions I enjoyed.

One of my favorites was “Five Things You Need to Know about Event Design,” with acclaimed Hollywood designer, David Merrell, AOO Events. As many of us are experiencing, many corporate and some social clients are cutting back so as to not “appear” extravagant in tough economic times, even if they have the budget. He shared tips on selective visual lighting (“the dark is your friend”), over-sizing your props to create a focal point (“bang for your buck”), and the latest “green” décor trends (recommends blogs such as designdawgs.net, ready2spark.com and BizBash).

I also enjoyed “At Least 5 Things You Need to Know about Social Events,” with Gwen Helbush, Where to Start, Inc. Wedding and Event Management, and Kristjan Gavin, In Good Company Meetings & Events. Their philosophy: what do you want your guests to say in the car on their way home? Their professional advice: do not give away ideas for free – if you give away your recipe your give away your power. For social clients, Emotion is the decision-maker. As the expert, they need to feel safe with you. One of the best ways to build that trust up front is by educating them about how vendors work, and how they can help the vendor.

“Stay Positive” was a common theme among many of the key note speakers. During the Opening General Session, Simon T. Bailey, Brilliance Institute, set an optimistic, forward-thinking mood of the conference. His emphasis on finding your personal insight and releasing your potential to your own genius left attendees re-evaluating their personal goals, and triggered a discussion among peers about what they can do to cultivate success in everyday life. Simon encouraged us to “Be Intentional – learn new skills – do not live in a world that no longer exists.”

I noted this “Stay Positive” attitude was especially during an international round table discussion featuring prominent industry professionals. Romaine Pereira, of the ISES Australiasia Affiliate, shared how it’s more important than ever to be confident. As the economy has taken a downturn, our industry has taken much criticism over this time – but the panel was quick to remind us that our work is “about people.” This is not a time to be egocentric. Our clients are looking to us to be resourceful, and the more people are positive, the more we will produce a forward change.

The evening receptions were also fun and exciting to chat with and get to know members from San Diego, Austin, and the UK, to name a few. I mingled Wednesday night at the ISES Leadership Reception with national ISES leaders, danced my shoes off at the fabulous San Francisco venue, Mezzanine, tasted the San Francisco flavor and bid on a few items the Friday night food & wine tasting benefit for the SEARCH Foundation, and ooed-awed and applauded industry peers as they vied for recognition of a coveted award at the ISES Esprit Awards and Celebration.

I left EventWorld 2009 uplifted and energized. I made memories with peers and friends. I took away key advice from educational speakers, many of whom freely offered their business cards and advice. I was inspired by success stories of self-made professionals. I re-examined my post-graduate goals and realized I need to keep honing my own skills and “release my brilliance.”

What would you recommend to others apply for this scholarship in the future?

I encourage all members to apply for this scholarship! My advice – get involved in our fabulous chapter here in RI. The success of ISES all over the world starts at the grassroots level. I applaud our local board for the provocative educational and networking opportunities that truly meet your needs no matter the level of your career. Reach out to our directors to see how you can help maximize the value of this organization. The value of the relationships and experience you will receive in return in simply intangible.

What are your future plans within the ISES Rhode Island chapter?

On a personal note, I want thank you, my ISES peers, for selecting me as this year’s 2009 Leadership & Education Merit Award recipient. From student member, to young professional, I am a prime example of how active participation in ISES has lead to professional success. I will continue to support and participate on the Education and Programs committee and encourage new members, looking to one day take the CSEP certification test, pursue a Board of Directors position, and become more acquainted with ISES-NE and the regional chapters.