• Obstacles and Challenges as Two Cultures Collide
  9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010

Veterans and their families face unique issues in the current economic environment and competitive job market. Learn the problems and myths that impact your move from the military to civilian culture. Explore strategies for success in this interactive and candid clinic. Three veterans will discuss their first-hand experiences and share resources you can put to use today.

The historical perspective of veteran social welfare policies dates as far back as the Civil War with many changes occurring between that conflict and Operation Iraqi Freedom. This evolution of policies and perceptions impacts us all. Chart your action plan using up-to-date resources and learn what legislators are hearing from Minnesota veterans that can help level the playing field.

Today's employers increasingly demand skills learned in the military for application in the civilian market. While your military skills have never been more desirable, many employers have a negative perception of the transition from military life to civilian culture. They also believe that they might be vulnerable to potential future deployments. Employers of military family members fear a permanent change of station will create a void when the family member moves. Join us to craft a personalized, practical approach to the problems faced by you and your family members.

Presenters

Hector R. Matascastillo | Clinic Chair and Presenter
Rapid Response Specialist
Minnesota Dislocated Worker Program
Former First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Hector Matascastillo was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala in January 1973. His family moved to Chicago, Ill., where he grew up. In 1990, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving 18 years. Hector deployed multiple times in support of various operations around the world. His assignments included active duty and Army National Guard service ranging from conventional infantry units to special operations work as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment. He received multiple decorations, including the Bronze Star, and was promoted to the rank of first sergeant.

Hector currently works as a rapid response team specialist handling large layoff situations for the state of Minnesota. He previously served as a veteran's employment representative. He is completing his Master of Social Work at Augsburg College and holds a B.A. in marketing management through Concordia University, St. Paul. His second-year placement involves work as a clinical therapist serving families in a multicultural environment. His background intersects the criminal justice system due to post-traumatic stress disorder, propelling him into public speaking for the benefit of others who may not understand the implications of living or dealing with an anxiety disorder. Hector speaks publicly on many focus topics, from veterans' issues to the implications of social service. He resides in the Phalen neighborhood of St. Paul with his wife, Trista, and their sons, Taavo, Hunter, Kaelen and Soren.

John D. Baker | Presenter
Attorney At Law
Gunnery Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.)
Baker Williams, LLP

John Baker is a partner at Baker Williams, LLP, a law firm dedicated to the legal needs of veterans, service members, wounded warriors and their families. Before starting Baker Williams, LLP, John was an associate at a major Twin Cities law firm working in the business law arena. He also served as an attorney for the United Veterans Legislative Council of Minnesota, as an attorney and director of legal and regulatory services for the Minnesota Veterans Homes Board; as staff counsel for Minnesota Counties Insurance Trust and as a clerk for the Honorable George T. Stephenson, Minnesota Second Judicial District.

John retired from the U.S. Marine Corps as a gunnery sergeant after serving 22 years in various infantry, artillery and administrative capacities in numerous locations within the United States and around the world. He graduated magna cum laude from St. Cloud State University and is a graduate of Hamline University School of Law.

John practices in the areas of criminal defense, business and nonprofit law, employment law, veterans' preference, USERRA violations, military and veterans issues, estate planning and real estate law.

Jeffrey L. Snyder | Presenter
U.S. Army, (Ret.)

An accomplished hospitality business owner/operator, Jeff retired from active federal service May16, 1985. After graduating from high school, Jeff was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era and earned numerous awards, decorations and commendations. An overachiever, he was selected as the senior combat arms advisor to the sultan of Oman. A carrier qualified attack helicopter and fighter jet pilot, Jeff occupied positions throughout the world and retired at Fort Knox, Ky., in 1985.

Jeff is now a student at Dakota County Technical College in the Meeting and Event Management program with an emphasis on Hospitality Management.

• 6 – 9 p.m.
  Friday, Feb. 26, 2010

Résumés are a lot like photos—employers see hundreds of snapshots of prospective employees, but only the best get framed for an interview. The first part of this dynamic mini-clinic will show you how to turn your cover letter and résumé into a personal portrait that will help you land interviews and stand out from the crowd. You will then meet independently for one-on-one feedback and suggestions on how to tweak your cover letter and résumé for even better results. This mini-clinic has size constraints and is expected to fill up fast. Be sure to watch for your confirmation that will include instruction about what to bring with you. Submit an electronic copy of your résumé and cover letter with registration.

Presenters

Ramie Chackan, MS, GCDF
Director of Career Services
Dakota County Technical College

Ramie Chackan has been the Director of Career Services at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) since September of 2005. Prior to this, she worked for the Career Development Center at MSU Mankato. Ramie holds a Masters of Science degree in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University Mankato. In addition, she is an internationally certified Career Development Facilitator through the Center for Credentialing and Education.

Ramie's primarily role at DCTC is to help students and alumni develop, evaluate, and implement their career plans and to provide students with the skills and resources needed to accomplish their career development and job search goals. She is one of the founding partners of the Nanotechnology Applications and Career Knowledge (NACK) Alumni Network for Nanotechnology graduates across the country, serves on the Twin Cities IT Alumni Association board and the Dakota /Scott County Youth Council board.

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010

Résumés are a lot like photos—employers see hundreds of snapshots of prospective employees, but only the best get framed for an interview. The first part of this dynamic mini-clinic will show you how to turn your cover letter and résumé into a personal portrait that will help you land interviews and stand out from the crowd. You will then meet independently for one-on-one feedback and suggestions on how to tweak your cover letter and résumé for even better results. This mini-clinic has size constraints and is expected to fill up fast. Be sure to watch for your confirmation that will include instruction about what to bring with you. Submit an electronic copy of your résumé and cover letter with registration.

Presenters

Ramie Chackan, MS, GCDF
Director of Career Services
Dakota County Technical College

Ramie Chackan has been the Director of Career Services at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) since September of 2005. Prior to this, she worked for the Career Development Center at MSU Mankato. Ramie holds a Masters of Science degree in Counseling and Student Personnel from Minnesota State University Mankato. In addition, she is an internationally certified Career Development Facilitator through the Center for Credentialing and Education.

Ramie's primarily role at DCTC is to help students and alumni develop, evaluate, and implement their career plans and to provide students with the skills and resources needed to accomplish their career development and job search goals. She is one of the founding partners of the Nanotechnology Applications and Career Knowledge (NACK) Alumni Network for Nanotechnology graduates across the country, serves on the Twin Cities IT Alumni Association board and the Dakota /Scott County Youth Council board.

• 6 – 9 p.m.
  Friday, March 5, 2010

First impressions are made in three to five seconds—and the perception you convey in those critical seconds really does count. Learn about handshake techniques, how to make introductions, professional appearance tips and business etiquette. Find out how to project the best first impression you can plus how to leave a great lasting impression at the end of a job interview.

Presenters

Christine Pigsley, MPNA
Dean of Student Affairs and General Education, Dakota County Technical College (Rosemount MN)

Christine Pigsley has held leadership roles in business, non-profit organizations and education. She graduated from Michigan State University and received a Masters Degree from Metropolitan State University. She has worked for mega companies such as General Motors and has done development work in rural Iowa. Pigsley started numerous companies including retail and service businesses. She joined DCTC in 2004 to lead the college's center at Apple Valley and in 2009 was named Dean of Student Affairs and General Education for the College.

David Hartnett
Klug Design, Owner and Creative Director

With a photo like this, would you want to work with this person? For over 24 years, David Hartnett has been fulfilling the need for creative and effective brand identity that business entrepreneurs and their organization use to attract potential clients. Armed with the philosophy of “once you put it out there, you can never take it back�, he will share helpful tips that will prevent the pitfalls of making a poor first impression. David is also the co-founder of South Metro Area Referral Team (aka SMART) which is a successful business-to-business networking referral group that builds business relationships while improving member's marketing message and bottomline. In 2007, David was presented with the Dave Schroeder Outstanding Student Award for his involvement and participation at Dakota County Technical College, academic achievement and service to the community.

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, March 6, 2010

Your career is like riding a bicycle—you don't fall off until you stop pedaling. Think about focus, energy, motivation, learning and networking. Do these qualities reflect your commitment to your career development and job search? If not, then you have stopped pedaling. Learn how to keep pedaling to achieve your educational and career goals. What are your strategies for designing your own career? Is your energy going in a positive or negative direction? How comfortable and confident are you in your ability to network? Are you willing to reframe your thinking and see things differently? Understand the importance of becoming a lifelong learner.

Presenters

Angela
Founder of McNamara Recruiting Group

Angela is President and Founder of McNamara Recruiting Group and has 25 years of experience in the recruiting and training industry. Angela works with employers, employees and students, creating training programs specific to their needs.

Angela is a member of the Business Advisory Council of Anoka Ramsey Community College and the Business Computer Systems and Management Advisory Committee of North Hennepin Community College. She is also a member of Executive Women International and Connecting Women. She has served on the Boards of Directors of the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities. 

• 6 – 9 p.m.
  Friday, March 12, 2010

If communication is at the core of our success, then networking is the path to our success.
Learn how to communicate and network to get where you want to be personally and professionally. This mini-clinic will empower you through learning and practice, and you will be engaged in the following ways:

• Write your elevator speech and escalator speech
• Learn that networking is about asking questions and listening in a way that builds relationships
• Gain confidence in introducing yourself to others
• Practice verbal communication techniques
• Practice nonverbal communication techniques
• Explore business etiquette
• Listen in a way that affirms value while establishing a sense of belonging and acceptance
• Ask questions that tap into the personal power and creativity that can transform lives
• Leverage the value of exploring with others rather than problem-solving for them
• Manage obstacles to personal and professional success

Presenters

Karen J. Carr, M.A., CPCC
Revitalize Life Coaching

Since 2001 Karen has been dedicated to supporting individuals in creating clarity on issues for themselves, on their own terms,
with the guidance of coaching. Karen is a certified graduate of the Coaches Training Institute and has a Master's Degree in Teaching from the University of St. Thomas. She graduated with a B.A. in Women's Studies and English from the University of Minnesota. Currently she coaches women for professional and personal relationship development and teaches her course, The Inner Review, at local colleges.

Annette H. Marquez
President, The Perfect Occasion, LLC

Annette Marquez founded The Perfect Occasion
in October 2005. An Independent Meeting Planner, she plans and manages meeting and events for nonprofits, associations and small businesses. Previously she worked for retail, mortgage, and nonprofit organizations. Annette routinely networks with everyone she meets, building professional and personal relationships. She has used her network contacts to find jobs as well as customers. She holds a BS degree in Restaurant Management from Kansas State University, Manhattan KS and a Meeting and Event Management Certificate from DCTC.

Annette is a member of the DCTC Hospitality Advisory Committee. She speaks to event management classes at DCTC on networking and offers DCTC students, internship opportunities. She is an active member of Meeting Professionals International. Annette received the 2010 Exceptional Businesswomen Award from the Dakota County Tribune Business Weekly.

Kate Simonson, MA, ACC
Life Direction Coaching, Inc.

Kate is a Certified Career and Life Coach and MN Licensed Employment Placement Specialist. She specializes in powerful, short-term transformational coaching of individuals and groups transitioning to more satisfying careers. Using powerful communication skills and strategies, Kate clarifies vision, uncovers and mobilizes inner resources, dispels or reframes perceived obstacles, and opens the horizon for clear access to dreams. She has a Master's Degree in Adlerian Psychology from the Adler Graduate School, where she is now an adjunct staff member teaching Career Development and Life Coaching courses.

Kate has assisted individuals in their career path through alliances with companies such as Ameriprise, GMAC-RFC, Cargill, Children's Hospitals, and others. She has trained business interns, business entrepreneurs, and provided professional development for educators. She provides highly interactive seminars to organizations and teaches coaching skills to managers to bring out the best in their associates. 

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, March 13, 2010

If communication is at the core of our success, then networking is the path to our success.
Learn how to communicate and network to get where you want to be personally and professionally. This mini-clinic will empower you through learning and practice. You will be engaged in the following ways:

• Write your elevator speech and escalator speech
• Learn that networking is about asking questions and listening in a way that builds relationships
• Gain confidence in introducing yourself to others
• Practice verbal communication techniques
• Practice nonverbal communication techniques
• Explore business etiquette
• Listen in a way that affirms value while establishing a sense of belonging and acceptance
• Ask questions that tap into the personal power and creativity that can transform lives
• Leverage the value of exploring with others rather than problem-solving for them
• Manage obstacles to personal and professional success

Presenters

Karen J. Carr, M.A., CPCC
Revitalize Life Coaching

Since 2001 Karen has been dedicated to supporting individuals in creating clarity on issues for themselves, on their own terms,
with the guidance of coaching. Karen is a certified graduate of the Coaches Training Institute and has a Master's Degree in Teaching from the University of St. Thomas. She graduated with a B.A. in Women's Studies and English from the University of Minnesota. Currently she coaches women for professional and personal relationship development and teaches her course, The Inner Review, at local colleges.

Annette H. Marquez
President, The Perfect Occasion, LLC

Annette Marquez founded The Perfect Occasion
in October 2005. An Independent Meeting Planner, she plans and manages meeting and events for nonprofits, associations and small businesses. Previously she worked for retail, mortgage, and nonprofit organizations. Annette routinely networks with everyone she meets, building professional and personal relationships. She has used her network contacts to find jobs as well as customers. She holds a BS degree in Restaurant Management from Kansas State University, Manhattan KS and a Meeting and Event Management Certificate from DCTC.

Annette is a member of the DCTC Hospitality Advisory Committee. She speaks to event management classes at DCTC on networking and offers DCTC students, internship opportunities. She is an active member of Meeting Professionals International. Annette received the 2010 Exceptional Businesswomen Award from the Dakota County Tribune Business Weekly.

Kate Simonson, MA, ACC
Life Direction Coaching, Inc.

Kate is a Certified Career and Life Coach and MN Licensed Employment Placement Specialist. She specializes in powerful, short-term transformational coaching of individuals and groups transitioning to more satisfying careers. Using powerful communication skills and strategies, Kate clarifies vision, uncovers and mobilizes inner resources, dispels or reframes perceived obstacles, and opens the horizon for clear access to dreams. She has a Master's Degree in Adlerian Psychology from the Adler Graduate School, where she is now an adjunct staff member teaching Career Development and Life Coaching courses.

Kate has assisted individuals in their career path through alliances with companies such as Ameriprise, GMAC-RFC, Cargill, Children's Hospitals, and others. She has trained business interns, business entrepreneurs, and provided professional development for educators. She provides highly interactive seminars to organizations and teaches coaching skills to managers to bring out the best in their associates. 

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, March 27, 2010

Project your expertise through your electronic portfolio, a vehicle increasingly requested by employers. Begin to develop your eFolio (Minnesota's electronic portfolio option) in this mini-clinic and learn tips to help you succeed in ongoing development. This mini-clinic has size constraints and is expected to fill up fast. Be sure to watch for your confirmation and instructions for material to bring with you. Plan to bring electronic images and résumé with you. If you have a laptop that has wireless access, please bring it with you. Computers will be provided for participants who are unable to bring a laptop.

Presenters

Randy LaFoy
Juris Doctor, Licensed in 5-12 Social Studies
GPS/eFolio Media Coordinator
Century College

Randy LaFoy was hired in the fall of 2008 to facilitate and support the eFolio and GPS LifePlan training of students, faculty and staff at Century College. Since that time, he has trained more than 1500 people, and produced more than 15 eFolio online Internet presentations. He also taught workshops on eFolio and the GS LifePlan at the eFolio Summit, as well as Minneapolis Tech, Northwest Tech and Itasca Community Colleges. A video of the eFolio Showcase he sponsored at Century in 2009 has been viewed more than 3000 times. His eFolio can be found at: randylafoy2.v2efoliomn.mnscu.edu/RAL/

Dr. Carol Lacey
Interdisciplinary Faculty
First College, Metropolitan State University

Dr. Lacey serves as an interdisciplinary faculty member at Metropolitan State University, guiding individualized bachelor's degree at a distance students, including Peace Corps Baccalaureate (PCBA). She collaborates on designing and presenting training on eFolio use in Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)for MnSCU faculty, staff and students. Lacey also teaches online writing, family studies and women's studies courses. She is a long-time reporter, columnist and editor for St. Paul Pioneer Press. Dr. Lacey earned her Ph.D. in American studies, and M.A. journalism and political science, University of Minnesota.

Rick Nelles
President of Career Portfolio Systems (www.ProveItAndWin.com)

Rick Nelles is committed to teaching hiring managers and candidates how to use proof-of-performance to make better job matches. Rick will be demonstrating how online career portfolios can be used to attract invitations for interviews and then get the best job offers. Rick has been a top-producing professional recruiter for more than 20 years.

Brad Thompson
Vice President of Career Portfolio Systems (www.ProveItAndWin.com)

Brad Thompson is a writer and producer of employment-related programs. He has teamed with Rick to launch the next generation of tools for job seekers. He is a former recruitment advertising executive and is the author of eight marketing and management books.

• 6 – 9 p.m.
  Friday, April 16, 2010

Job interviews are difficult to get. Make the most of the ones you get by learning important fundamentals and practicing your interview skills in a real interview environment. Each attendee will receive one-on-one mock interviewer experience. Submit a copy of your résumé and cover letter with your registration. This mini-clinic has size constraints and is expected to fill up fast. Be sure to watch for your confirmation that will include instructions about what to bring with you.

Presenters
TBA

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, April 17, 2010

Job interviews are difficult to get. Make the most of the ones you get by learning important fundamentals and practicing your interview skills in a real interview environment. Each attendee will receive one-on-one mock interviewer experience. Submit a copy of your résumé and cover letter with your registration. This mini-clinic has size constraints and is expected to fill up fast. Be sure to watch for your confirmation that will include instructions about what to bring with you.

Presenters
TBA

• 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  Saturday, April 17, 2010

Academic advisors and financial aid specialists will be on hand to answer your questions. Stop by and talk to an academic advisor about short-term training, certificate, diploma and degree opportunities. Learn about Lifetime Learning Credits that can help you reach your education goals in the most efficient way possible.

Speak to a financial aid expert and get help securing your PIN for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can get answers to your questions about the FAFSA application. Bring in your completed 2009 Federal Tax Forms and we'll help you complete the forms on the spot as long as you have your PIN prior to the Open House.

• 9 a.m. – Noon
  Saturday, May 8, 2010

Men are men and women are women—until we enter the business world. Women soon learn that they are not "one of the boys" and level playing fields are hard to find in professional communities. We have assembled a panel of professional women with decades of experience who will share their experiences and advice. Leave your naivety and stereotypes at the door and join us for a candid and interactive discussion about how to succeed in the office, the boardroom and more. Audience participation is encouraged. Join us to share ideas and hints. This is not about survival—this is about SUCCESS.

Presenters

Mary Hamann-Roland
Mayor, City of Apple Valley, MN
7100 West 147th Street
Apple Valley, MN 55124

Mary Hamann-Roland is the Mayor of the City of Apple Valley. Mary was elected to a four-term in 1998 and reelected in 2002 and 2006. In addition to serving as Mayor, she also served six years on the school board. Mayor Hamann-Roland is also involved in numerous national and state municipal organizations, multiple regional policy organizations, a variety of school-related
committees, and many other civic committees. Mary has spent her civic career fostering partnerships among individuals, communities, and organizations. Among other successful collaborations, she was very instrumental in the creation of the nationally renowned School of Environmental Studies. She is also very active in the City’s efforts to create an urban village environment that will better serve the entire region into the future.

As Mayor, Mary Hamann-Roland serves on several other Apple Valley organizations including the Apple Valley Economic Development Authority, the Apple Valley Foundation, and the Apple Valley Fire Relief Association Board. She currently serves as Past President on the Board of Directors for the League of Minnesota Cities and President of the Minnesota Mayors Association. Mayor Hamann-Roland has also served on several municipal organizations including: the National League of Cities Information Technology and Communications Policy Committee, the National League of Cities Energy Environment and Natural Resources Steering Committee, the National League of Cities City Futures Panel on Community and Regional Development, the League of Minnesota Cities Improving Service Delivery Policy Committee, the Municipal Legislative Commission Board, and the Minnesota Association of Metropolitan Municipalities Government and Transportation Committee.

In addition, Mayor Hamann-Roland is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and has or currently represents the City on these regional policy organizations: the State Wide Task Force on Traffic Congestion and Value Added Pricing in Transit and Transportation, the Met Council Housing and Land Use Committee, the Met Council Mayors Affordable Housing Task Force, the Blackdog Watershed Management Organization (Vice-Chair), the County of the Future Commission, Co-Chair of the High Performance Partnership, the Water Resource Education Commission, and Co-Chairs the Management Committee for the Cedar Avenue Transitway Study. She also serves on the Dakota County Technical College General Advisory Committee and Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship Advisory Board, and the Curriculum and Instruction Advisory Council and Community Education Advisory Council for the fourth largest school district in the State of Minnesota.

Christine Pigsley, MPNA
Dean of Student Affairs and General Education, Dakota County Technical College

Christine Pigsley has held leadership roles in business, non-profit organizations and education. She graduated from Michigan State University and received a Masters Degree from Metropolitan State University. She was worked for mega companies such as General Motors and has done development work in rural Iowa. Pigsley has started numerous companies including retail and service businesses. She joined DCTC in 2004 to lead the college’s center at Apple Valley and in 2009 was named Dean of Student Affairs and General Education for the College.

Joan Gustafson
President, Success and Leadership Dynamics

A specialist in organizational change and leadership, Joan develops strategies and tactics for improving an organization's bottom line and enhancing the careers and contributions of employees.  A former member of the 3M Corporate Marketing Operating Committee, she held international management responsibility for multiple functional areas including marketing and sales productivity, e-Business and knowledge management.

As the founder and president of Success and Leadership Dynamics, Joan works with both large companies and business startups in helping them to exceed their objectives and maximize their potential.  She also works with job seekers in accelerating the search for their ideal job.

An award-winning international speaker, Joan is the author of seven books on success and leadership and has spoken to more than 4,000 audiences in ten countries.  Her two most popular books are Some Leaders Are Born Women! and A Woman Can Do That! 10 Strategies for Creating Success in Your Life.

Joan is on the faculty of University of Phoenix, where she teaches graduate-level courses in international management, e-Business, strategic planning, and operations management.

Angela Althoff
Founder of McNamara Recruiting Group

Angela is President and Founder of McNamara Recruiting Group and has 25 years of experience in the recruiting and training industry. Angela works with employers, employees and students, creating training programs specific to their needs.

Angela is a member of the Business Advisory Council of Anoka Ramsey Community College and the Business Computer Systems and Management Advisory Committee of North Hennepin Community College. She is also a member of Executive Women International and Connecting Women. She has served on the Boards of Directors of the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities. 

Rosealee M. Lee
Instructor | Dakota County Technical College

Rosealee M. Lee is an instructor in the Supervisory Management and Meeting and Event Management programs. She has served DCTC students for seven years in adjunct and full-time faculty positions, taking an active role in the Meeting and Event Management program, with its Hospitality emphasis.  She personalizes education in real ways students can take home and put to use immediately. She mentors students and champions their dreams. Following graduation, Rosealee's students continue as part of a growing network of hospitality professionals dedicated to sharing resources and ideas.

Rosealee has led nonprofit and for-profit organizations in the education and service arenas for more than three decades. Having earned the coveted distinction of Certified Association Executive, she has served both as a leader and trainer in the areas of corporate leadership, volunteer and employee management, membership recruitment and retention, marketing, public relations negotiation, and communication.  She has planned meetings, events and trade shows domestically and internationally, developing and facilitating corporate strategic and long-term planning initiatives and focus groups.

As an entrepreneur, Rosealee has been founder and board member of the ARDEL group, a meeting management corporation, and ConveneMachine, an online convention tools corporation, as well as a partner in Global Success, a training and consultation company.

The winner of numerous awards throughout her career, Rosealee believes that her current award (or reward) is the growth and strength of DCTC's hospitality program and the success of the program's alumni.

She serves as Vice-President of Leadership Development in Meeting Professionals International Minnesota Chapter.  She is an active member of the American Society of Association Executives, Professional Convention Management Association, International Special Event Society, Meeting Professionals International, and National Association for Community College Entrepreneurs.

John Cosgrove

Irishman, John Cosgrove, first introduced the interactive team program, Cosgrove Trivia Challenge in 2006 and has worked with many Fortune 500 companies and nationally recognized nonprofit organizations.  In the past year the business of engaging groups has expanded beyond trivia to encompass John’s wide array of presentation talents and skills.

 Cosgrove Presents incorporates a number of various and effective programs tailor built for your event or meeting.  These include team building, group facilitation, moderating, and entertainment. Cosgrove Presents will take your group on a journey of self discovery, insight and enlightenment all while being interactively engaged.