2021 W.I.T.H CONFERENCE PROGRAM BOOK

Special Thank You to our

Sponsors

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Tableof Contents

Welcome Conference Schedules Donors and Supporters W.I.T.H. Program History Advisory Board Scholarship Donation Opportunities Conference Insights

Learn & Grow Sessions Honorees Present and Past Special Thank You

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p. 6 p. 7 p. 9 p. 10-11 p.12 p. 15 p. 22-25 p. 27 - 28 p. 29-36 p. 41-42

SEPTEMBER 23-24

Four Points by Sheraton 8110 Aero Dr., San Diego, CA 92123

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Proudly

WE SUPPORT THE MULTI-CULTURAL CONVENTION SERVICES NETWORK’S WOMEN IN TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY NATIONAL CONFERENCE! Spectra brings together all aspects of event management in a clear and simple way – as one. Our proven leadership in venue management, food services and hospitality, and partnerships seamlessly align to create memorable guest experiences.

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▶▶LEARN MORE AT SPECTRAEXPERIENCES.COM

MCCSN Presents the Inaugural W.I.T.H. National Conference Welcome!

We congratulate you on your decision to invest in yourself and we are delighted to have you here. We hope you will be “all in” taking full advantage of the opportunities we have made available for you. Learn strategies to take your careers to the next level, build your confidence, negotiate your next salary, take time for self-care, communicate effectively and build a culture of diversity and inclusion for Women in Tourism and Hospitality. We also encourage you to join us in service by participating in our scholarship silent auction and join us in celebration as we honor accomplishments of six phenomenal women during the 5th Annual W.I.T.H. Awards Luncheon.

Our conference theme is ‘Celebrating and Empowering Our Collective Voice.’ We are certain that as you enjoy the many opportunities of the 2021 W.I.T.H. National Conference you will be refreshed, encouraged, and empowered. Our greatest hope is that you will share your authentic voice with everyone you meet during the conference. You will be impacted by what you learn here and we hope you will be committed to consistently using it to improve yourself, and help your sisters, your organization and your community.

Gratitude and thanks go out to the most amazing W.I.T.H. Advisory board for your unwavering leadership, guidance, and support of this inaugural W.I.T.H. Conference. We appreciate our sponsors for your financial support, our speakers for sharing your knowledge and inspiration, and our exhibitors for showcasing the latest trends and products. Special thanks to everyone who has worked, planned, prepared, and supported the 2021 W.I.T.H. National Conference.

Most of all we are grateful that you have joined us this first year.

Thank you for bringing your voice to the conference. One voice at the right pitch can start an avalanche. Let’s use our collective voice to make history and change the tourism and hospitality landscape! The future belongs to those who dream and work!

Yours in hospitality,

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AGENDA at a glance THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2021 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

REGISTRATION | PALMS LOBBY

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

WELCOME RECEPTION | PAVILION PATIO

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2021 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

REGISTRATION | PALMS LOBBY

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM

HEALTH SCREENING | SKIES LOBBY

8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST | CITRUS

EXHIBIT MARKETPLACE | PAVILION A

8:15 AM – 8:30 AM

GENERAL SESSION WELCOME AND OPENING CEREMONY | PAVILION A&B

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM

GENERAL SESSION | KEYNOTE SPEAKER | PAVILION A&B

9:35 AM – 10:15 AM 9:35 AM – 10:15 AM

EXHIBITOR MARKETPLACE | PAVILION A

HEALTH AND WELLNESS BREAK | PALMS LOBBY

9:35 AM – 10:15 AM

NETWORKING YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & C-SUITES |CITRUS

10:20 AM – 11:05 AM

MENS PANEL – EXECUTIVE THOUGHT LEADERS | PAVILION A&B

11:10 AM – 12:10 PM

WORKSHOPS (click here for more details) Diversity & Inclusion (Repeats at 2:30 PM) | PALM A

3:30 PM

Confidence (Repeats at 2:30 PM) | PALM B

Communication | PALM C

Technology | PALM D SILENT AUCTION BIDDING ENDS

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

HEALTH AND WELLNESS BREAK | CITRUS

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

EXHIBITOR MARKETPLACE | PAVILION A

3:30 PM – 4:15 PM

FIRESIDE CHAT (C-SUITES ONLY) | THEATER

4:35 PM – 5:25 PM

GENERAL SESSION - CLOSING KEYNOTE | PAVILION A&B

5:25 PM – 5:30 PM

CLOSING REMARKS, WITH PRODUCER AND CHAIR | PAVILION A&B

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR

2 0 2 1 W. I .T. H . A D V I S O R Y B O A R D Lucy Burni

Principal and President Burni Enterprises

Clara Carter

President and Founder Multicultural Convention Services

Dania Duke

Area General Manager Davidson Hotels & Resorts

Carolyn Johnson

Goodman Johnson Associates

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Robert Rauch, CHA Chief Executive Officer RAR Hospitality

Reggie Wooldridge General Manager Marriott International

Karima Zaki

President and CEO ZenZone by sanctuate!

SILENT AUCTION

DONORS AND CONTRIBUTORS W.I.T.H. gives back! Your support allows

us to continue providing scholarships for female students in the Hospitality and

Tourism industry. Our past scholarships have been awarded to college students pursuing an interest and education in the field of

Hospitality and Tourism. By bidding on these items, your donations will help us reach our 2021 scholarship goals. We thank you in advance for your support and generosity!

Comic-Con International University Club Atop Symphony Towers Sushi on a Roll San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park Rancho La Puerta Uncle Nearest, Inc (Whiskey) Sheraton Mission Valley Hotel Del Coronado Meze Restaurant Four Points by Sheraton San Diego Eforea Spa Hilton Bayfront SUKI Day Spa Manchester Grand Hyatt Hyatt Regency Mission Bay

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San Diego Symphony SD Padres Michelle Carlen Paradise Point Resort Hyatt Regency La Jolla Cape Rey Hilton Resort Hotel Solamar Hilton Gaslamp Live Nation House of Blues Smoking Goat/One Door North Lolita’s Mexican Food Mister As Bread & Cie Bakery Hotel del Coronado

Women In Tourism And Hospitality (W.I.T.H.) Program History Clara Carter, President and CEO of MCCSN, founded the W.I.T.H. Program in 2015 to fulfill her dream to recognize and encourage the contributions of women professionals at all stages of their careers. Her work began with a local focus on the women in tourism and hospitality in the San Diego metro-area. In five short years W.I.T.H. has grown and become the premier program significantly impacting the tourism and hospitality industry. It now embraces the recognition, collaboration, diversity, inclusion, elevation and community of women nationwide.

The W.I.T.H. Awards Luncheon and celebration was the original W.I.T.H. program emphasis. Clara Carter says ”We believed that celebrating well known, respected, influential, and unsung women at the pinnacle of their careers would also inspire tomorrow’s leaders. We were right! Guests at the luncheon include tourism executives, industry insiders, new professionals, entrepreneurs, and students. They have coined the term “W.I.T.H. IT!” to express their delight in the concept of the award, the sisterhood embodied within it, and the event itself.”

Thanks to W.I.T.H. supporters, industry sponsors, and donors, W.I.T.H. has grown by 25% every year since 2015 and now includes a Silent Auction to raise funds for the W.I.T.H. Scholarship.

The W.I.T.H. Networking Mixers was added in 2017 as a networking opportunity for industry career professionals to connect in a relaxed and professional atmosphere. Guests at the mixers include W.I.T.H. Honorees, key industry executives, business owners, industry suppliers, meeting and event planners, industry colleagues, community leaders, and entrepreneurs. Everyone at all levels has expressed appreciation for this opportunity to mix business with pleasure and enjoy the entertainment, hearty appetizers and opportunity gifts. and more.

The W.I.T.H. Advisory Board, W.I.T.H. Good Guy and W.I.T.H. UNITY were created in 2019, in response to requests from honorees, supporters and attendees to have greater involvement in what had become “the W.I.T.H. movement”. Our mission: W.I.T.H. supports, empowers and strengthens diversity and inclusion for women in the hospitality industry and provides education, leadership strategies, mentorship and networking opportunities in a forward-thinking environment.

The W.I.T.H. Advisory Board was created to be the “Guiding Light” for Clara’s vision. The Board is comprised of past honorees and industry executives selected because of their amazing work in the industry, their superb experience, their excellent reputation, their perceptive insight into industry trends, and their ongoing support of the W.I.T.H. program. Through their membership on the Advisory Board, these women and men continue to shape the inclusiveness of our industry by supporting today’s women leaders, helping to guide and prepare leaders of the future and helping to achieve WITH’s Clara’s vision of expanding this program to include a “W.I.T.H. Conference”. W.I.T.H. MEN was created to reflect the organization’s Clara’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. It is the Male/Female Executive Nexus (MEN) linking and connecting the women and the men thought leaders who support women in the workplace.

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Women In Tourism And Hospitality (W.I.T.H.) Program History cont.

W.I.T.H. UNITY was created to foster the idea of bringing women together in community. It helps support our mission and increase our capacity to lead, collaborate and create positive change. It is THE way members can access the W.I.T.H. executive network, connect to peers, learn new industry trends, market ourselves and our brands globally, talk creatively about the future of our industry, and have FUN.

This 2020 W.I.T.H. Conference is the next step towards our ultimate vision of a beautiful world where women collaborate with each other, companies, educational institutions, governments, corporations, and nongovernmental organizations to strengthen diversity and inclusion, and financial capacity. Thanks to the enthusiastic response and interest from around the globe, the program is well on its way to realizing that vision. Join us, follow us and work with us as we make history and become W.I.T.H. INTERNATIONAL. As Clara says, “ The future belongs to those who dream and work”. Let’s Get W.I.T.H. it! Building Capacity for Women Together.

Small business, big impact.

Always open at usbank.com or with the U.S. Bank Mobile App.

U.S. Bank supports the small businesses and business development programs that build and sustain our community. We value the role small businesses play in providing jobs, contributing to local charities, and shaping the identity of our community. Local businesses are proof that with vision and determination, we can create our own possibilities. usbank.com/communitypossible

U.S. Bank is proud to support Women In Tourism and Hospitality.

Member FDIC. ©2019 U.S. Bank 219404c 7/19

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2021 W.I.T.H. ADVISORY BOARD

Clara Carter President and Founder

Karima Zaki

Dania Duke

President and CEO

General Manager

ZenZone by sanctuate!

Davidson Hotels and Resorts

Robert Rauch, CHA

Carolyn Johnson

Principal and President

Chief Executive Officer

Goodman Johnson Associates

Burni Enterprises

RAR Hospitality

Multi-Cultural Convention Services Women in Tourism and Hospitality

Lucy Burni

Reggie Woolridge General Manager

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Marriott International

Four Points by Sheraton San Diego 8110 Aero Drive San Diego, CA 92123 United States T 858 277 8888 fourpointssandiegohotel.com

MEETINGS DONE RIGHT Everything you need to meet the way you like. That’s Four Points by Sheraton San Diego.

Inspire the best from your team in our stylish event space. With an attentive staff and modern accommodations, we ensure a productive meeting whether big or small—our substantial 7,400 square feet of flexible meeting space can easily accommodate up to 600 people. We also offer full banquet and catering menus for all types of meetings.

FOURPOINTSSANDIEGOHOTEL.COM

Real Estate Investment Company Family Owned & Managed Since 1990

Lucy Burni

8110 Aero Drive San Diego, California 92123 Office: 619.696.3797 Fax: 619.231.9012

Conference Scholarship Donation Opportunities

W.I.T.H. is well aware that our dream of an inclusive and prosperous industry must include developing a workforce of young women who are inspired, properly skilled, and educated for excellence. Therefore, we want to provide scholarships to women attending a trade school, community college or university and majoring in tourism and hospitality. You can help by engaging in our Circle of Prosperity. Please buy a t-shirt, make one or more Conference Registration Donations of $20 each and bid on our silent auction items.

(Your deduction is tax deductible)

Caring citizens feel good when they help others through activities like Silent Auctions Prosperous communities produce successful healthy caring citizens

W.I.T.H. CIRCLE OF PROSPERITY

Knowledgeable workforce impacts values, capabilities and commuity prosperity

Education provides a more knowledgeable workforce

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Silent Auction proceeds fund scholarships

Scholarships give students access to higher education with less student debt

W.I.T.H. Conference Mistress of Ceremonies

Dania Duke

Area General Manager

Davidson Hotels & Resorts MCCSN/W.I.T.H. Advisory Board

Moderator of Honorees Panel

Karima Zaki

CHA, CEO

ZenZone by sancuate!

W.I.T.H. Awards Luncheon Mistress of Ceremonies

Carolyn Johnson Principal Diversity Consultant

Goodman, Johnson Associates MCCSN/W.I.T.H. WITH Advisory Board

Moderator of Mens Panel

Terri Breining Principal Breining Group, Inc.

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HILTON SAN DIEGO GASLAMP QUARTER

DOWNTOWN 401 K Street San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-231-4040 Fax: 619-702-8278 or 619-231-6439 www.sandiegogaslampquarter.hilton.com sangq-salesadm@hiltongaslamp.com Total sleeping rooms: 286 Number of committable rooms: 150 Number of suites: 13 Rack rates: $189 - $899

AMENITIES • Award-winning boutique-style hotel • Hilton Honors Points and Miles • Located in the Historic Gaslamp Quarter • 9,000 square feet of meeting space with floor to ceiling windows • 7,500 square foot Starlight Terrace • Across the street from the San Diego Convention Center • Surrounded by shopping, theater, Art Galleries, restaurants and Nightclubs • Two blocks from Petco Park • Three miles from San Diego International Airport • New Leaf Restaurant and Bar serving signature California cuisine • 24-hour business center

The Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is the closest hotel to the San Diego Convention Center, and is located three miles from the San Diego International Airport. Guest rooms at the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp hotel include pillow-top mattresses with down comforters as well as high-speed internet access. For guests seeking exclusivity, The Lofts on 5th Avenue at the Hilton is a “hotel within a hotel” providing the experience of residential loft living. 9,000 square feet of meeting space featuring state-of-the-art technology, high speed internet and views of San Diego with floor to ceiling windows, in addition, we offer the 7,500 square foot Starlight Terrace and can also cater events in the nearby Martin Luther King Park. This sleek and stylish urban hotel is located at the gateway to the Historic Gaslamp Quarter which remains the hub of downtown’s nightlife scene, the place to see and be seen.

ROOM NAME

DIMENSIONS

SQUARE FEET

CEILING HEIGHT

RECEPTION

THEATER

CLASSROOM

BANQUET

Santa Rosa

43’ x 46’

1,500

10’

200

200

80

150

Marina A & B

54’ x 24’

1,296

10’

120

100

60

90

Marina A

27’ x 24’

648

10’

55

50

30

40

Marina B

27’ x 24’

648

10’

55

50

30

40

• Heated outdoor pool with sundeck

Corona

14’ x 22’

786

10’

70

55

30

60

• Room Service

Pacific

24’ x 32’

863

10’

65

45

36

50

• Voicemail and call waiting

Coronado

14’ x 22’

322

10.5’

25

20

12

20

• Deluxe pillow-top mattresses

Bayside

12’ x 23’

288

10.5’

20

15

8

10

• Valet parking

Harbor Board Room

27’ x 30’

540

10’

–

–

–

–

• Concierge services

Terrace Foyer

–

1,358

–

–

–

–

–

• Complimentary weekday newspaper

Loft Foyer

–

686

–

–

–

–

–

• Welcoming outdoor fire pit

King Promenade Park (Outdoors)

–

14,000

–

1,000

–

–

750

Starlight Terrace

–

7,500

–

450

500

–

350

Gaslamp

–

3,500

10’-13’

240

350

170

200

• 24-hour complimentary fitness center

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San Diego Tourism Authority

EMPOWERING

OUR COLLECTIVE VOICE AND MAKING HISTORY! W.I.T.H. Conference organizers and attendees — you’re making history!

As the first conference of its kind celebrating women and diversity in hospitality and tourism, you’ve set the bar high for future events to continue highlighting the importance of diverse voices in these sectors. Thank you to Clara Carter and our keynote speaker, Julie Coker, for sharing your insights, wisdom and expertise, and congratulations to the conference organizers for putting on a successful event.

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Keynote Speaker

Julie Coker President and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) Julie Coker is the president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) where she oversees the organization’s efforts to promote and sell San Diego as a top destination for meetings, conventions, overseas travelers, and leisure visitors. The San Diego Tourism Authority is recognized as one of the best in the business and continues to set the standard for Destination Marketing Organizations.

Previously, Coker served as the president & CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) where she oversaw the 2017 NFL Draft and the 2016 Democratic National Convention, which had a combined economic impact of $325 million for Philadelphia. Prior to that, she was PHLCVB’s Executive Vice President, Convention Division, and managed a staff of 25 sales and services professionals responsible for selling the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Center and hotel packages to customers across the country.

CLICK TO READ MORE AT SDWITHIT.COM

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She welcomes you!

A sacred site since time immemorial, Mt. Kuchumaa rises majestically above Rancho La Puerta and our valley home, like a mother’s warm embrace.

Woman-owned since 1940, and proudly multi-cultural, The Ranch prides itself on being a leader and example of all that we —the women in tourism and hospitality — can accomplish as a guiding force for good.

We salute you all!

Stay W.I.T.H. IT!

Destination Wellness Resort & Spa

Tecate • Baja California • Mexico 877-440-7778 • RANCHOLAPUERTA.COM

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Keynote Speaker

Annette Gregg Sr. Vice President, Experience for MPI

Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA is Senior Vice President, Experience for Meeting Professionals International (MPI), leading its community engagement, events, and education teams and delivering programs for its 16,000 members worldwide. She has an extensive background in the meeting and hospitality industry, serving in executive-level positions for corporations, associations, and non-profits.

She regularly delivers keynotes on topics including diversity and unconscious bias, promoting women in the workplace, and a variety of professional development topics, Annette has taught at several universities including leading San Diego State University’s Meeting and Event Certificate Program, and is currently an instructor in Leadership for their Masters in Meeting and Events Program.

She was elected Instructor of the Year at SDSU, and inducted into the Center for Business Intelligence’s Circle of Excellence for her training and speaking. She is an honoree for Women in Tourism and Hospitality and has won the Coach Award for the Association of Women in Events and Planner of the Year for MPI San Diego.

CLICK TO READ MORE AT SDWITHIT.COM

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Conference Insights HEALTH SCREENINGS Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM SKIES LOUNGE W.I.T.H. is dedicated to helping keep you safe,stopping the spread and ensuring that we don’t accidentally contaminate others. Masks are mandatory indoors regardless of your vaccination status.

Health screening is a mandatory key component of stopping the spread of COVID-19 at the front door—literally.

WELCOME RECEPTION Thursday 5:30PM - 7:30PM PAVILION PATIO Roaring ‘20s Speakeasy and Casino night, sponsored by Spectra and Viejas Casino and Hotel. TIme to have some fun. dress in your Roaring ‘20s outfit, take vintage photos, join your friends at the gaming tables, while sipping on our signature ‘Speakeasy’ cocktail, and enjoying live sounds of some Great Gatsby, played by soulful saxophonist, J. Boykin. It’s time to reconnect with old and meet new friends. It’s time to get WITHit and have some FUN! See you at the gaming tables!

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MEN’S PANEL EXECUTIVE THOUGHT LEADERS MEN SUPPORTING WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE Friday 9:35AM - 10:15AM PAVILION A&B

MODERATOR: TERRI BREINING, PRINCIPAL BREINING GROUP, INC W.I.T.H. CLASS OF 2016 HONOREE

You will have the opportunity to hear and interact with men who challenge stereotypes, confront bias, and leverage their expertise and clout to benefit women. They help their companies work well with women, tap their full talent and potential and make sure that women succeed because they know that diverse and inclusive teams outperform their peers.

You can ask them what to do about workplace barriers to success such as the “likability” penalty, being underestimated, getting the credit for your ideas, having your say and being heard in meetings,having to train the man who got the job you worked for, unequal distribution of plum assignments, penalties and perks, and other practices that really bother you.

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE PANEL

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Conference Insights

EXHIBITOR MARKETPLACE Friday 8:00AM - 4:00PM PAVILION A

The Exhibitor Marketplace gives our partner companies the opportunity to meet individuals working in every tourism and hospitality business sector.

It will be a hub where participants and companies can come together to learn, exchange information and ideas, chat about their products, services, and concerns, offer solutions and inspire each other.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Friday 9:35AM-10:15AM & 2:30PM-3:30PM CITRUS 24

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SPEED NETWORKING WITH C-SUITE EXECUTIVES Friday 9:35AM - 10:15AM CITRUS ROOM (Exclusive Session for Young Professionals (YP)35 years or younger.

Limited to the first 24 ppl to sign up (wait list available).

The goal is to open doors to potential growth opportunities and valuable partnerships. You will want to make as many connections as possible, so get straight to the point. Small talk can happen after the meeting. You can easily exchange contact information and sometimes set up future meetings as well You will have an exclusive opportunity to access 7 C-Suite executives from various hospitality markets.

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Conference Insights (cont.)

FIRESIDE CHAT

Friday 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM THEATER Limited to 30 people. Wait list available

Presenter: Karen Johnson, Founding board member of Castell Project, Inc. Moderator: Niveesha Hill, General Manager of Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites,Del Mar

This session is designed to be a casual conversation about Making the Uncomfortable, Comfortable: Succeeding as a Confident Woman in Business. We hope you will be at ease, open up, share information, and relate to each other. To make the conversation jam-packed with high quality content and flow smoothly, send us your questions before the event.

The facilitator will review them and provide feedback during the event. You can share something about yourself or ask questions about things you heard during the session. Your candid participation will help you and everyone in the room reach your goal leaving with exactly what you wanted to know.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT KAREN & NIVEESHA

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Learn & Grow Sessions DIVERSITY & INCLUSION FRIDAY 11:10AM - 12:10PM AND 2:30 PM TO 3:30PM PALM A

Presenter: Greg Deshields PHLDIVERSITY PHILADELPHIA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Learn the strategies and practices that lead to a diverse workplace. Learn to leverage the effects of diversity to achieve a competitive business advantage. Learn how to create an inclusive work environment where all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.

COMMUNICATIONS, THE TALK AND THE WALK FRIDAY 11:10AM - 12:10PM PALM C Presenter: Sarita Maybin

MOTIVATIONAL KEYNOTE SPEAKER , AUTHOR TEDX SPEAKER. COMMUNICATION EXPERT

Don’t hesitate to speak. Learn how to raise your voice to get what you want and use your authentic communication style to be strong, heard and understood. Learn how to stand and take credit publicly without boasting.

THE TECHNOLOGY EVOLUTION FRIDAY 11:10AM - 12:10PM PALM D Presenter: Megan Powers

POWERS MARKETING,STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING

Learn to tame social media and the evolution of technology to enhance (not disrupt) your business.

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Learn & Grow Sessions (CLICK PHOTOS TO READ BIOS)

CONFIDENCE

FRIDAY 11:10AM - 12:10PM AND 2:30 PM TO 3:30PM PALM B

Presenter: Sacha Boutros

HEAR ME ROAR ENTERTAINMENT GROUP.

Boost your self-confidence, connect with others, and attract success. Learn to accept who you are, make yourself a priority, surround yourself with people who celebrate you, and own your success. When you speak up with confidence others will listen up.

NEGOTIATION SKILLS FRIDAY 2:30 PM TO 3:30PM PALM C Presenter: Dari DeSousa RAR HOSPITALITY.CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Learn the art of negotiating salaries that start to close the gender pay gap. Learn the psychology of making the case for being paid commensurate with your value and equal to your male counterparts

A HEALTHY WORK LIFE BALANCE FRIDAY 2:30 PM TO 3:30PM PALM D

Presenter: Angela Minardi

CORPORATE LIFESTYLE CONCIERGE AND WELLNESS EXPERT

In this session, attendees will learn the basics of mindfulness, deep breathing, tai chi body movements, and ergonomics that you can use throughout your day and share with your team. This Health & Wellness session will leave you energized and centered to tackle the rest of the day!

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CO N G R AT UL AT I O NS TO O U R

2020/2021 W.I.T.H Honorees Sara Arjmand W.I.T.H. honors Sara for her expertise in digital marketing and public relations. Sara raises her voice by, generously sharing her business savvy and financial literacy, and advocating for and educating women in transition.

Makeda Dread Cheatom

W.I.T.H. honors Makeda Dread Cheatam for her work creating Outdoor Classrooms to bring families and low income children outdoors and teach them the origins and science of the food they eat and the critical need to take care of our planet. Makeda raises her voice to unite all races, all cultures, and all people across the world through music, art, dance and culture.

Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA

W.I.T.H. honors Annette for her leadership of its events and education teams. Annette raises her voice serving as a keynote speaker, and teaching and advising university students in Meeting and Event Certificate Programs.

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( 2 0 2 1/ 2 0 2 0 W.I.T.H. H ONOREES CONTINUE D)

Kimberly J. Becker

W.I.T.H. honors Kimberly for her leadership of an organization that annually brings $11.9 billion economic impact for the region. Kimberly raises her voice in policy discussions to bring similar stellar results to all U.S. airports.

Jody Blackinton W.I.T.H. honors Jody for her guidance in the successful operation of 11 major hotels. Jody raises her voice to stimulate hotel room demand through tourism promotions, marketing and advertising programs presented by the non-profit San Diego Tourism and Marketing District.

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN HONOREE? The W.I.T.H. Program honors phenomenal women leading the way in San Diego’s tourism and hospitality industry. Trailblazers. Game changers. Interesting women with interesting lives. Executives or owners of thriving businesses. Women who are making huge contributions to San Diego’s community, lifestyle, and economy.

We have presented it to 26 noteworthy women and, in the five years since its inception, the award has become a coveted honor.

We are proud to introduce to you five more phenomenal women who are changing the landscape of Hospitality and Tourism in San Diego. Nominations Opening Soon!

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WHERE WOMEN MAKE THEIR MARK. Philadelphia has a history of pride and inclusion that continues to attract visitors to our diverse, multicultural city.

That’s why, at PHL Diversity, we celebrate that spirit by connecting local womenowned business and female community leaders with your next event.

You in? Get connected at

discoverPHL.com/PHLdiversity

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2019 W.I.T.H. Honorees

Pat Pfohl

Sin Bosier

Director of Sales Founder, President and CEO GEM USS Midway Museum Gaslamp Event Management, Inc.

Madelyn Marusa DeeAnne Snyder DMCP, CIS Vice President PRA Business Events, Inc Retired.

Kerri Verbeke Kapich Yolanda Hernandez Chief Operating Officer

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President and CEO Five Star Tours and Charter Bus

Director Event Services SD Convention Center Corporation

Lesley Cohn

Carol Wallace Lifetime Achievement Honoree Co-Founder, Cohn Resturant Group

2018 W.I.T.H. Honorees

Barbara Moreno

Executive Director of Communications San Diego Convention Center Corporation

Deborah Scott

Executive Chef/Partner Cohen Group

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Fae Desmond

Carol Wallace Lifetime Achievement Honoree Executive Director Comic-Con, International

Marilyn Hannes

President/CEO SeaWorld San Diego

Dania Duke

General Manager Hilton San Diego Gaslamp

Randa Coniglio

President/CEO Port of San Diego

2017 W.I.T.H. Honorees

Denise Jackson

President and CEO Balboa Travel Management

Shirley Hirai

Founder of PRA Destination Management Company (Retired)

Manager of Equal Opportunity, Port of San Diego

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Patti Roscoe

Rebecca Aguilera-Gardiner

Sue Botos

VP of Sales and Marketing for Diego and Sons Printing

VP, Community Relations, S.D. Padres (Retired)

2016 W.I.T.H. Honorees

Julia Slocombe

VP Operations- Smart City Network, Western Region

Lucy Burni

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President and CEO Burni Enterprises, and Four Points by Sheraton San Diego

Karima Zaki

Terri Breining

CHA –Founder CEO ZenZone

by Sanctuate!

CMP, CMM – Principal of Breining Group LLC

Maureen Carew

Christine Shimasaki

General Manager at Grand Pacific Palisades Resort & Hotel

DME, CMP, Managing Director at 2Synergize

WINNER OF THE

2019 W.I.T.H. GOOD GUY AWARD

Robert “Bob”Rauch, CHA ‘President R.A. Rauch and Associates, Inc CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

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MEETINGS & INCENTIVES

Are Better in

The Bahamas NON-STOP FLIGHTS TO NASSAU PARADISE ISLAND – JUST A FEW HOURS FROM MOST MAJOR U.S. CITIES For a corporate meeting, trade show or incentive trip, what could be a better reward than the crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Nassau Paradise Island. From executive boardrooms to 50,000 square foot ballrooms, for any size group and function, you’ll find the ideal facilities for a successful meeting at one of these unique member properties:

• Atlantis, Paradise Island • British Colonial Hilton, Nassau • Comfort Suites Paradise Island • Grand Hyatt Baha Mar • Meliá Nassau Beach - All Inclusive • The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas • Rosewood Baha Mar • Sandals Royal Bahamian • SLS Baha Mar

For additional information contact: George Brice Vice President Group Sales Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board George@npipb.com Or visit us online at NassauParadiseIsland.com

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NassauParadiseIsland.com

OPTIONS FOR ALL IS HERE TO PROVIDE AND HELP YOU RETAIN LOYAL, DEVOTED EMPLOYEES. With hospitality being one of the largest industries in San Diego, there is not only a demand for employment, but a call for inclusion as well.

Luckily, Options For All, a San Diego-based non-profit organization who serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) toward becoming fully participating members of their communities, ensures just that.

As one of the premiere staffing agencies for these adults, Options For All has joined forces with leading organizations in the hospitality industry such as the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and SeaWorld to provide exciting employment opportunities for these individuals to thrive in fulfilling, life-long careers.

It wouldn’t be hospitality if everyone wasn’t welcome!

Contact Options For All today and live hospitality out loud with your workforce. optionsforall.org

OPTIONS 39

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Planning Committee Clara Carter President MCCSN/WITH Conference Producer and Chair

DeeAnne Snyder, CMP San Diego Convention Center Corporation Onsite Logistics Manager

Cornita ‘Nita’ Cintron It’s in the Details SDSU Onsite Logistics Assist. and Volunteer Manager

Gillie Abdiraxman - Issa Elite Concierge Chicago, LLC / Administrative Virtual Assistant

Ashley Matthews Dynasty Media / Graphic Artist / Website Developer

Sandra Dryden Write it Plain / Sr. Copy Content Manager

La’Toria Jones Soulful Media / Marketing Coordinator

Roz Wakefield Marina Village Conference / Registration Management

Vendor Services Reggie Hailey: New Image Photography & Videography Mark Ogilvie: Mark Ogilvie Photography / Photographer Carlton Jones: CWJ Audio Visual / (Webinars) AV/Audio Pete Pandit : AV Guys / AV tech for Welcome Reception Brett Lawson: Lawson Audio Visual / Conference Ramon Ivey: Creative Professional / Presentation Designer

Entertainment by J. Boykin

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Volunteers – Thank You! Melissa Meyer

Sophie Wong Tina Marie Honor Jeaniqua “J” Francis Wayne Daniels

Dari DeSousa Mt. Miguel High SchoolMatador Academy Students

Additional Thanks: Exhibitors

California Coast Credit Union RAR Hospitality Retro Rides Uncle Nearest Whiskey Union Bank be bella Designs US Bank Fit City Adventures Commercial Connect TV

In-Kind Sponsors Retro Rides SD Uncle Nearest Whiskey Cvent bebella Designs AV Guys

Table Sponsors

Port of San Diego San Diego County Airport Authority Grand Hyatt San Diego Burni Enterprises Smart City Networks San Diego Theatres Meeting Professionals International

Partners/Supporters Castell Project Visit California California Hotel and Lodging Associations

Customized Sponsors:

Del Cerra Tax, LLC Janice Brown, Principal Meyers Nave CEO of Jones, Steven Jones Goodman Johnson Associates Sponsors of Students and Young Professionals

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THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING! SEE YOU IN

2022

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