Discover an innovative vendor vetting process meticulously designed to align with your organization's values and objectives. Uncover the intricacies of identifying and selecting vendors, emphasizing the support of alumni-owned, minoritized-owned, female-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, and/or local businesses in your area. Explore the step-by-step process, from initial vendor research and identification to finalizing agreements, guided by a detailed playbook and effective communication strategies. Elevate your vendor selection game with a unique "Vendor Scoring System" that objectively evaluates diversity, value alignment, online presence, communication, portfolio, and potential red flags. Delve into the scoring system's criteria, each meticulously designed to ensure a comprehensive assessment is accounted for. Learn to make informed decisions based on quantifiable data, streamline the vendor selection process, and prioritize those who align best with your organization’s values for event success. Prepare to navigate the complexities of emergency planning, formalizing vendor agreements, and building lasting vendor relationships. Join us in revolutionizing your approach to vendor selection by fostering inclusivity, reliability, and strategic partnerships. Take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your event planning toolkit and make values-driven decisions in the vendor selection process. Intermediate Track

In the fast-paced realm of Advancement, the demands are soaring, and your team faces a pivotal choice – burnout or build. Picture this: limited budget, no room for team expansion. What's your move? Join our dynamic conference session for an exhilarating dive into unleashing your hottest commodity - students! Learn innovative strategies to harness their potential, lighten your workload, showcase their talent, and cultivate super alum ambassadors, steering your institution towards an unstoppable future. It's time to transform challenges into opportunities – ignite the power within your team and set the stage for success! ? #TeamTransformation #StudentPower #InstitutionalSuccess Foundational Track

This on-the-move session is designed to drive deeper engagement with conference material and themes. Part brainstorming and part informational, this activity will involve participants in collaboratively exploring challenges and ideas related to the conference themes. Faculty will then select from crowd-generated challenges and discuss possible solutions, tools, and tips to take your work to the next level. All Tracks