The AOA Annual Conference is Back!
The program for AOA's 39th Annual Conference is shaping into an interesting blend of both tradition and change. Our conference theme, "The Next Wave" represents our recognition that as business leaders and professionals we must constantly anticipate, prepare and look forward to the change that comes from that inevitable next wave.
The most recent wave, which has defined the current financial situation of the state of California, the CSU, and the AOA, drives the importance of creating a conference with programmatic and educational sessions critical to attendees and their organizations. Both the AOA and the CSU are being challenged to find new ways of conducting business, not only for their respective operations but also in concert with one another. For those reasons we are introducing two major changes for this year:
- Combining Forces – the AOA is pleased to welcome the CSU Financial Officers Association (FOA) to our 2011 conference. FOA will bring a new perspective to our conference proceedings through content specific and joint sessions. The inclusion of FOA in this year's AOA conference will give us all the opportunity to learn together and from each other.
- Tuesday Adjourn – for 2011 a one-day scale back of conference proceedings is being introduced with the idea that one day less of travel might provide members more flexibility in how to allocate their travel resources for this year.
But tradition is important too! Conference attendees will enjoy valuable educational sessions. We are also looking forward to seeing everyone at the ever popular "Sunday No-Tie Banquet" with Chancellor Reed delivering the keynote speech. Then there's the traditional Monday Night Event which will provide an opportunity to meet up with long-time pals and make new friends. Finally, we are pleased to announce that the Sunday afternoon keynote speech will be delivered by Willie L. Brown, Jr. An alum of San Francisco State University who spent 30 years in the California State Assembly, then later served as mayor of San Francisco, Mayor Brown will most certainly be able to provide experienced, interesting and entertaining insight on the current state and future of California.
Waves can be both a challenge and a thrill, but one thing for certain is that we can't sail without them. To that end the Conference Planning Committee is working on a program of educational tracks that you will find both practical and inspirational as you prepare for the next wave. Please check back often as news and updates.
Looking forward to seeing you next January in Newport Beach!
Jerri Carmo, Chair,
AOA Conference Planning Committee
Platinum Partners
