IACCE 2025 Fall Conference Sessions

click here for member calendar of events
Back to Event
Register

Opening Networking Session

11:00 AM Wednesday Networking

Location
Ballroom

Horizon 2035: Linchpin, Timeless, and Timely Forces Shaping our Future

12:00 PM Wednesday Plenary

Location
Ballroom

Unlocking Government Resources: Leveraging TIF Districts to Support Your Mission

1:30 PM Wednesday Concurrent Sessions

Summary
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts can be powerful—but often underutilized—tools for chambers working to drive economic development and community impact. This session will unpack how government resources like TIF can align with your mission, fund key projects, and support your members. Learn from real-world examples how chambers have partnered with local governments to tap into these resources and advocate for smart, strategic growth in their communities.

Ambassador Programs Panel Discussioin

1:30 PM Wednesday Concurrent Sessions

Event Safety and Security: Layered Planning

1:30 PM Wednesday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Zack Geneseo, IOM - Executive Director
  • Gene Karzin - Geneseo Police Department Deputy Chief of Police
Summary
Geneseo Chamber Executive Director Zack Sullivan, IOM and Geneseo Police Department Deputy Chief of Police Gene Karzin discuss the importance of creating a welcoming environment for guests at events while implementing safe and uniform emergency procedures between event stakeholders. Program will cover recent attacks and incidents at public events across the country, how Geneseo reviews these incidents in relation to Geneseo events, and how Geneseo prepares for event safety using lessons from previous incidents. Will outline how to create detailed operations plans to share between event stakeholders, and attendees will receive a blank template to use for their events. Program will outline the critical need for communication amongst emergency officials and event planners. Program will also cover potential funding resources available for event planners to cover costs of additional security measures. The goal of the program will be to equip attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to develop more comprehensive event security and emergency response plans of action for their communities and events.

Opening Keynote: Raising the Lid: Leading with Influence, Advocacy & Purpose Across Generations

3:00 pm Wednesday Keynote

Location
Ballroom
Speakers
  • Darla Harms
Summary
Leadership isn’t just about having a seat at the table—it’s about knowing how to use your voice once you're there. In this dynamic and interactive session designed for chamber professionals, we’ll explore the laws of leadership that lift your impact, not just your title. Through the lenses of influence, self-advocacy, and board savvy, we’ll tackle what it takes to lead across generational divides and elevate your leadership capacity (a.k.a. raise your “lid”). Packed with relatable stories, reflection questions, and a few laughs, this session will leave you equipped—and energized—to lead with purpose, communicate your worth, and drive meaningful change in your organization and community. Because let’s be honest: great leadership never goes out of style, but how we wear it matters more than ever.
Dave Kilby

Leading Through Adversity

4:30 PM Wednesday Plenary

Location
Ballroom
Speakers
  • Dave Kilby
    Dave Kilby is the President Emeritus of the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) He Served as Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs for California Chamber and President/CEO of W.A.C.E. for 34 years. Ddave is the author of the book “Chamber Champions: Wisdom for the Ages” which was released in April 2019. For 11 years he served as the California Chamber’s lobbyist on small business, economic development, housing and land use issues. Prior to joining California Chamber, Dave had a successful career in local chamber management as CEO of the Modesto (CA) Chamber. Dave is a past Chair of US Chamber’s Western Institute, and was a longtime member of the US Chamber’s Committee of 100 and their Political Advocacy Committee. He is a self-described movie, Disney & trivia nut and is a poli-holic (Yes – he actually likes politics). Dave and his wife Kim are on a never-ending search for the perfect India Pale Ale (IPA)

Breakfast

8:00 AM Thursday Breakfast

Location
Ballroom

IACCE Board Meeting

8:00 AM Thursday Breakfast

Government Affairs: Let's Get Started

9:00 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Robert Medler - Manager, Arizona Government Affairs, Western Growers Association

From Boardroom to Boom: Accelerating Chamber Growth with Insider Insight

9:00 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Darien Marion Burton - Executive Director, Oak Park - River Forest Chamber of Commerce
Summary
Stepping into the Executive Director role with firsthand Chamber experience offers a unique advantage—but how do you turn that into rapid success? In this session, Darien Marion-Burton shares how leveraging institutional knowledge, member relationships, and a bold vision can drive membership, revenue, and impact. Attendees will learn: ✅ How to transition from Chamber insider to transformative leader ✅ Strategies to strengthen member engagement and operational efficiency ✅ Innovative approaches to amplify visibility, partnerships, and community impact Whether you're a new exec looking for a launchpad or a seasoned leader seeking fresh momentum, this session will provide actionable takeaways to fast-track your Chamber’s success!

Hosting an Impactful Women's Conference - A Panel Discussion

9:00 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Caitlin Pusaterii, IOM, ACCE, MAOL - Chief Operating Officer,Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Greater
  • Lena Wickens - Events & Marketing Director, Grundy County Chamber of Commerce & Industry

How to Plus UP: Next level advocacy

10:30 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Robert Medler

Exploring the Freemium Model: Insights, Experiments, and Opportunities

10:30 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Kaylin Risvold, IOM - President & CEO, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Karen Mullins - President & CEO, Marion Chamber of Commerce
Summary
Join this interactive panel discussion as we explore the concept of the freemium membership model for chambers. Panelists will share their research, insights, and potential strategies for implementation, each offering a brief presentation. We’ll conclude with an open group discussion to gather ideas, answer questions, and explore what this model could mean for your organization. '

A Day In Your Shoes = Engagement & Revenue

10:30 AM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Katie Koester - President & CEO, Effingham County Chamber of Commerce
Summary
What if your next big Chamber success story involved swapping your boardroom schedule for stocking shelves or dry needling? In this engaging and energizing session, Effingham County Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester shares how the Chamber's hit video series, “A Day In Your Shoes,” went from an experiment to a full-blown, revenue-generating community favorite. Attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Katie plans, films, promotes, and monetizes each job-swap adventure—from stocking health food shelves to learning forklift controls—while highlighting local businesses and driving up engagement. Whether you’re a solo exec or leading a large team, this session will give you the tools to create your own buzzworthy spotlight series with just a smartphone and a big dose of curiosity. Target Audience: Presidents, CEOs, and Executive Directors of chambers of all sizes. Marketing staff and content creators encouraged to attend with leadership, as implementation works best when both strategy and storytelling are aligned. Participant Takeaways Attendees will leave with: - A blueprint to build their own version of “A Day In Your Shoes” - A plug-and-play shot list, filming checklist, and sample release form - A ready-to-use sponsorship package to pitch to local businesses - Tips & tricks for maximizing views, engagement, and reach on social media - A renewed sense of fun, community connection, and creative purpose in their Chamber work

Lunch!

12:00 PM Thursday Lunch

Location
Ballroom

Pink Goldfish

12:15 PM Thursday Luncheon Keynote

Location
Ballroom
Speakers
  • David Rendall
    During the last twenty years, David Rendall has spoken to audiences on every inhabited continent. His clients include Fortune 50 companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, Fannie Mae, and State Farm, as well as the National Apartment Association, Home Care Association of America, Australian Government, American Cancer Society, Entrepreneurs Organization, Young Presidents Organization, and all branches of the United States Military. Prior to becoming a Certified Speaking Professional, he was a leadership professor, stand-up comedian, and nonprofit executive. In between presentations, David competes in ultramarathons and Ironman triathlons. David has a doctor of management degree in organizational leadership, as well as a graduate degree in psychology. He is the author of four books: The Four Factors of Effective Leadership The Freak Factor The Freak Factor for Kids Pink Goldfish 2.0
Summary
How do you become one of the few organizations or individuals that become extraordinary? It is crucial to stand out in a crowded marketplace, but true differentiation is increasingly rare. Based on over 400 case studies, Pink Goldfish provides an unconventional eight-part framework for achieving competitive separation by embracing flaws, instead of fixing them.

Illinois Chamber & U.S. Chamber Legislative Update

1:30 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

How to Use AI to build Sponsorship Packages

1:30 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Rudy Flores - President & CEO, Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce

Big Impact, Bigger Revenue: Leveraging Billboards for Chamber Success

1:30 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • John Mulholland - D.O.T. Outdoor
    John has 30 years of total experience in the outdoor advertising industry dating back to 1993. Currently he serves as Partner at D.O.T. Outdoor Advertising, overseeing all sales operations.
Summary
Looking for a creative, visible, and sustainable source of non-dues revenue? This session dives into how Chambers of Commerce are using billboards—digital and traditional—as powerful tools for both promotion and income. Learn how to partner with local advertisers, structure billboard programs, and navigate logistics like zoning and contracts. Real-life examples will showcase the impact of billboard strategies on member value, community visibility, and the bottom line. Whether you’re exploring the idea or ready to expand, this session offers practical insights to help you get started or grow.

The Chicago Way: Building Influence Through Relationships and Data

3:00 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Ian Tobin - Vice President/Director of Community Development, Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce
Summary
Influence doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built through trust, strategy, and solid data. In this session, you’ll learn how to strengthen your chamber’s political presence by developing meaningful relationships with elected officials and leveraging data to back your advocacy efforts. Discover practical techniques used by chambers to become go-to voices in their communities and explore how the “Chicago Way” can inspire a strategic approach to political clout that works anywhere.

Engaging Tricky Demographics: Strategies for Retail, Hospitality, Restaurants, and VRBO Businesses

3:00 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Summary
Serving diverse industries like retail, hospitality, restaurants, and VRBOs presents unique challenges and opportunities for chambers. Join this expert panel as they discuss the distinct needs of these sectors, share successful engagement strategies, and explore innovative ways to support and grow these vital parts of your community’s economy. Gain actionable insights on building stronger relationships and tailored programs that resonate with these dynamic businesses.

Maximizing Member Value and Revenue: Partnering with Local Human Resources Consultants

3:00 PM Thursday Concurrent Sessions

Speakers
  • Amy Boston - Threology HR
Summary
This practical session will guide you through how to actively engage local Human Resources consultants to deliver real value to your members and boost chamber revenue. From hosting interactive workshops and offering one-on-one advisory sessions to creating customized HR programs, learn actionable strategies to integrate HR expertise into your services. Discover how these hands-on partnerships can strengthen member relationships while opening new revenue opportunities for your chamber.

Plenary: Money Talks: Decoding the Economic Outlook with the St. Louis Fed

4:30 PM Thursday Plenary

Location
Ballroom
Speakers
  • Charles S. Gascon - Economist and Research Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Summary
Get ready for an insightful and lively deep dive into what the numbers really mean for your community and business future. Join a speaker from the St. Louis Federal Reserve as they break down current economic trends, what’s on the horizon, and how it impacts chambers, members, and local economies. This session will cut through the jargon with clear explanations, real-world examples, and practical takeaways you can use to navigate uncertainty and plan ahead with confidence.

Plenary: You’re Invited to Play the Feud!

8:30 AM Friday Plenary

Speakers
  • Scott Robertson - Growth Zone
Summary
Get ready to strategize and shout out your answers because GrowthZone’s session is inspired by the iconic TV show Family Feud. Join the fun, laughter, and friendly competition. Bring your A-game because it’s time to put your knowledge and wit to the test. Put your thinking caps on as we dive into chamber industry trends, member insights, non-dues revenue, and chamber dynamics. In addition, Scott Robertson, IOM, will ask some of the most popular survey questions from the hit game show “Family Feud” as contestants face off to give the top answers. Get ready to dive headfirst into how chambers compare to non-chamber associations and unlock the secrets to supercharging your current software tools, all in the pursuit of claiming the coveted title of Chamber Feud Champion! Prizes and Surprises: Exciting prizes await the winners, along with surprises throughout the event. Don’t miss out on this chance to learn about chamber trends, bond with your peers, and have a blast in the process. Flex those brain muscles, warm up your buzzer-hitting hand, and join us for this unforgettable session. We can’t wait to see you there!

Posted. Not Perfect: How Real People Build Powerful Brands with Courage, Consistency, and Zero Filters

10:00 AM Friday Closing Keynote

Speakers
  • Nic Skovgaard
  • Dr. Travis Cripps
Summary
You don’t need a big budget to get big visibility, you need courage, consistency, and a willingness to hit “record.” TEDx speaker Nic Skovgaard and pediatric dentist turned content powerhouse Dr. Travis Cripps offer a bold new framework for building visibility without losing your authenticity. It empowers chambers and small business leaders to stop waiting for the perfect post, perfect strategy, or perfect moment, and start showing up with real content that connects. Through a mix of storytelling, proven frameworks, and straight-up encouragement, attendees will walk away with a renewed understanding of how to be visible in a noisy, mobile-first world. This session is rooted in Nic and Travis’ core belief: if you truly believe your business helps people, staying invisible isn’t humility, it’s a disservice. By shifting from “marketing mode” to storytelling mode, chambers and their members can finally build trust, earn attention, and unlock the visibility they deserve. - What Attendees Will Learn: Why being “findable” matters more than being famous—and how to get there without burning out The power of mobile-first content and the vertical video revolution How to identify and capture authentic, everyday moments that tell your brand story Why “Posted. Not Perfect.” is more than a mantra—it’s a movement Practical tools to create more content with less stress How to empower your members to stop hiding and start showing up Why This Matters for Chambers: Chambers are the heartbeat of their communities, but too often, they struggle with the same visibility issues as their members. This session equips leaders with the mindset and methods to confidently tell their own story, and to help businesses in their community do the same. It’s fast-paced, practical, inspiring, and tailored for those who wear 10 hats and need real results.'
Powered By GrowthZone