What's New > My time at USITT24 by Jacquie Lazar
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As some of you may know I just returned from Seattle where I attended the USITT24 Conference, a first time for me.
I was invited to attend by their Executive Director, Laura-Lee Everett, who took on her role just over a year ago, and who is the organization’s first ever female Executive Director! That inspirational note hung over the air of USITT for the entire time I was there.
As a first-time attendee it was a lot to take in, for those who have never been it can be overwhelming and trust me when I say you need to pace yourself! During my 4 days at the conference, I was able to take in some sessions, meet with exhibitors (some members and some not) walk the tradeshow floor and connect with many of our partner organizations such as ESTA, OISTAT, Lighting and Sound America and Behind the Scenes. I also got to meet and chat with some of our members who also attended the conference.
Wednesday was a whirlwind of welcome receptions, sessions, and meeting some of the USITT Board Members.
On Thursday I was on hand to see the tradeshow floor open; I had meetings with the Publisher, Director for Lighting and Sound America, ESTA's Executive Director and those associated with ESTA and I met with the Executive Director and staff of Behind the Scenes.
On Friday March 22nd, we had our section meeting early in the morning and I was thrilled at the turnout and that I was able to meet some of our members in person for the first time; many of whom were from British Columbia. I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who attended the meeting, it was appreciated. I left that meeting feeling exhilarated and full of thoughts and ideas to bring forth to the board.
On Friday evening I went to the reception at MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture) and there I was able to find some more of our Canadian contingent and had some engaging one on one conversations. If you ever find yourself in Seattle, I highly recommend going to MoPOP.
Saturday, I attended the USITT membership meeting, networked on the tradeshow floor and in the afternoon, I was able to participate in the Behind the Scenes fundraising raffle and auction that took place on the trade-show floor. I had a moment to speak about CITT/ICTS and our annual fundraising efforts through Swag Bingo that go towards the AFC. It reminded me how much fun Swag Bingo is, and I look forward to that event in Saskatoon.
On my way back home, I was able to reflect on the amazing, welcoming, diverse community that we are all part of and how lucky we are to do what we do. It is hard work? Yes! I will not deny that, but we get to do some pretty amazing things with some pretty amazing people in some amazing spaces.
Note: For any CITT/ICTS member looking to attend USITT next year, your membership allows you to receive a discounted rate to the conference; one of the many perks of being a CITT/ICTS member. To find out more about our member benefits, please click here.
The CITT/ICTS Section Meeting wrapping up on March 22nd
The anticipation of the trade-show floor opening, and lots to see!
The Behind the Scenes auction and raffle held on the Saturday afternoon.
