Event professionals from throughout the world are gathering in Phoenix for The Special Event 2011, which opens officially today at the Phoenix Convention Center. The event runs through Jan. 28.

Kicking off the week was the two-day Academic Event Professional Conference, serving college and university event professionals in development, alumni relations, marketing and fundraising.

The slate of education programs launched yesterday, with a seminar slate including "Fundraising: From Breaking Even to Breaking Records," "Events in China: Working in Asia," "Add Flowers, Grow Profits" and "The Uninvited Guest: Scope Creep."

The new showcase "Off the Hook Teen Events" launched as well, offering six creative vignettes for this burgeoning sector.

The day closed with the "TSE Starts Here" party at Corona Ranch.

OPENING GENERAL SESSION SET

Today will bring the Opening General Session, featuring a panel of veteran professionals discussing the toughest and the smartest decions they made to stay afloat during the recession. The session will also annoubce the winners of the Tabletop Gallery competition.

 Other highlights today will be the opening of the trade show floor, the Wedding Lunch and Gallery, and the Welcome Event--co-sponsored by NACE—at the Arizona Grand Resort.

For more information about education sessions, showcasing events and exhibits at The Special Event 2011, visit The Special Event.