Education Sessions

Behind the Curtain of Association Meetings

This session will take attendees behind the curtain of hotel contracting for association meetings, showing the process from RFP submission to final contract. Too often, planners see only the proposal without understanding the internal steps required for a hotel to evaluate and approve business. Panelists will explain how RFPs are received, assigned, and routed through sales, revenue, and leadership before a bid is issued. We will then explore the contract stage, where economic shifts, ownership structures, and management differences create wide variation in terms—even within the same brand. By including both hotel leaders and a third-party sourcing professional, the discussion will provide practical strategies to help associations protect themselves while strengthening partnerships.

Moderator: Julie Shkolnik, VP Global Accounts, HPN Global Panelists:
Kleber Caceres, Director of Sales & Marketing, The Westin San Diego Bayview
Maribel Denner, Hospitality Commercial Leader 
Gabe Romero, Senior Sales Executive, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina
Paulette Scarpine, Director of Revenue, Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
Karen Strgacich, National Director, Hotel Sales, Southwest and Southern California, LA Tourism & Convention Board

Peer-Powered Lab: Lessons, Insights & What’s Next

Before you head home, come together for a high-energy, peer-driven wrap-up that turns conference inspiration into action. In this interactive lab, you’ll reflect on key lessons and “aha” moments from the event, share what resonated most, and tap into the collective brainpower of the room. Bring your biggest takeaways, your lingering questions, and the next steps you’re eager to implement—then get real-time feedback, ideas, and guidance from fellow attendees. You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a stronger plan to put what you’ve learned into practice.

Maria Dempsey, CMM, DES, CSW, WSET3, Sommelier 1, Senior Sales Manager, Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe
Stephanie Pridmore, Chief of Operations, CalCIMA

Non-Dues Revenue Hackathon

Get comfortable and bring your ideas—whether they're well-tested or completely new—to our relaxed non-dues revenue hackathon! We'll explore exciting and innovative ways to generate income beyond membership dues and events, ensuring your organization's financial stability for the future. Together, we'll dive into sponsorships, unique programs, and a variety of fresh concepts. With experienced hosts ready to share their insights and experiences, this interactive and gamified session promises to be enjoyable and engaging.
Even if you don't win a prize, you'll leave with plenty of new ideas to implement at your association. Join us for a laid-back session full of new perspectives and practical takeaways that you can apply right away. Let's push the boundaries and discover new avenues for financial success!

Laurel Nava, CAE, Deputy Executive Director, CITE (California IT in Education)