2008 ISPA CONFERENCE & EXPO – AN EVENT EMBRACING THE FUTURE OF SPA
LEXINGTON, Ky. – An acclaimed actor, respected economic expert and professional photographer with a unique viewpoint lead the offerings as the International SPA Association returns to Las Vegas this fall. Set for Nov. 10-13 at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, the 18th annual ISPA Conference & Expo will feature more than 60 hours of education, an Expo with 300 exhibitors in more than 450 booths and an anticipated 3,300 attendees.
Embrace is the theme for this year’s event. “Embrace brings to mind a feeling of community and inclusion, which is what ISPA provides for its members,” said ISPA Chairman Jim Root. “This fall, we’ll embrace our industry and prepare those who are part of it for a sustainable, energized and engaging future.”
ISPA President Lynne McNees noted that, “Previous attendees note that the ISPA Conference & Expo is a must-attend event because of the quality of the education, unrivaled Expo and limitless networking opportunities. The ISPA Conference attracts spa owners and directors, CEOs, presidents, general managers from hotel corporations, product companies and retail buyers because they know this is the place to get the best information and make connections that will help grow their business.”
This year marks the fourth time ISPA has brought its annual Conference to The Venetian. The ISPA Conference has attracted some impressive keynote speakers in the past and this year is no exception. Due to popular demand, sociologist, author, educator and comedienne Dr. Bertice Berry returns as the master of ceremonies for each day’s General Session. She will stand alongside:
- One of the most celebrated actors of all time, Academy Award winner Sidney Poitier. With his message of achieving equality and the importance of diversity, Poitier will motivate attendees to make a difference, as the closing keynote speaker on Nov. 13.
- NBC’s “Today Show” and “Oprah Winfrey Show” financial contributor Jean Chatzky will take a closer look at the economic climate and its effects on the spa industry when she addresses Conference attendees on Nov. 11.
- To kick things off on Nov. 10, ISPA acted on numerous requests and brought back renowned professional photographer Dewitt Jones as the opening keynote speaker. Jones spoke in 2001 and offers attendees a new perspective through the use of his photographs.
- The always-popular Visionary Panel will take center stage on Nov. 12. Deborah Szekely, founder, Rancho La Puerta and Golden Door; and Pam McNair, CEO, Gadabout SalonSpas, are confirmed for the panel. Additional participants will be announced soon.
Online registration for the 2008 ISPA Conference & Expo will begin May 16 on http://www.experienceispa.com/. Room reservations may already be made at The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino by calling 1.877.883.6423 and mentioning ISPA for the Conference discounts.
About the International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth. More details on ISPA are available on http://www.experienceispa.com/.