Nearly 200 ISES members headed to Sydney, Australia, Aug. 2-5 for the 2002 Conference for Professional Development, headquartered at the Sheraton on the Park hotel.

More than 30 education sessions and more than 45 speakers covered a wide range of topics in four tracks: Global Vision, Business Manager, Innovation and CSEP Certification. Special events included visits to Sydney's famed Opera House and convention center, as well as a regatta on Sydney harbor. A highlight of the conference was the Esprit Awards; for a list of Esprit winners, visit www.specialevents.com.

“The results have been truly memorable,” said Lena Malouf, CSEP, immediate past president of ISES and head of Lena Malouf Events, Double Bay, Australia — “including 1,100 new members, a gain of $300,000 in revenue over expenses, as well as ISES members from around the world visiting the Australian shores for a highly educational and sensational CPD. Through my presidency, the leaders of ISES brought to the table vision, versatility, sensitivity, insight and patience, with the principal key being focus. This has been a year for me to remember, with great people, great passion and lots of laughs.”

“The feedback on this summer's conference was so positive that ISES will feel a dramatic impact for years to come,” said David L. Spear, CSEP, incoming ISES president and head of Classic Effects in Mandeville, La. “Our leaders and staff are committed to promoting next summer's Conference for Professional Development” — July 15-18 in Minneapolis. “We have absolutely top-drawer teams planning the conference, educational lineup and Esprit awards ceremony. Every ISES member can and will benefit from attendance at next summer's CPD.”

RESOURCES

ISES, 401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611; 800/688-4737, 312/321-6853; www.ises.com