In our personal and professional lives, we seek and strive for excellence. Part of that quest is learning from and being inspired by professional colleagues and experts in the field of meeting planning. Explore the possibilities for excellence in your life and work by experiencing “Gateway to Excellence,” RCMA's 33rd World Conference and Exposition, January 25-28, 2005, in St. Louis.

RCMA is expected to draw more than 1,300 meeting professionals to St. Louis. The meeting is constructed to help you increase your knowledge and skills, develop strategic partnerships with all types of vendors, and improve your performance through the finest lineup of tutorials that RCMA has offered.

RCMA makes learning enjoyable. You will be energized by fabulous general session speakers. You will hone your meeting-planning skills at the tutorials, and you will be wowed by top-notch entertainment. But above all, RCMA attendees cherish the connections they make with other members and associate members. The spirit and camaraderie at RCMA are unique and special.

Gateway to the West

St. Louis is steeped in history, but has its feet in the present and its eyes on the future. You'll be able to see the great Midwestern city for yourself with the early bird sightseeing tour and other activities that RCMA has planned for Tuesday, January 25. (See page 27 for details.)

Also on the early bird lineup is a series of behind-the-scenes experiences, something only RCMA offers. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to explore the inner operations of an advertising company, a public relations firm, a hotel, or a major convention center. Gain hands-on experience as you become involved with key personnel in a range of activities which will enhance your professional knowledge.

On Tuesday night, the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission is planning relive the grandeur of the 1904 World's Fair. This turn-of-the-century exposition brought together people from dozens of nations. The World's Fair's wonderful legacy continues to benefit St. Louis. At the reception, you'll be delighted by sights, sounds, and songs as you share in fellowship amid an array of buffets featuring famous foods of the fair.

Opening Ceremonies, Expo

Wednesday morning, a sensational extravaganza at America's Center will fill you with anticipation for what's to come. Keynote speaker Dr. Will Miller will set the tone with his speech, “Gateway to Excellence: In Life Balance.”

Then it's off to the Expo, which will have booths staffed by knowledgeable suppliers who provide services for religious meetings.

But you don't have to worry about being inundated with a barrage of suppliers, according to RCMA Executive Director DeWayne S. Woodring. “We carefully manage the planner-to-supplier ratio so that every attendee will have the one-on-one time they need to meet with hoteliers, CVBs, and other facilities and service providers with whom they are considering doing business.”

Visionary Learning

At the heart of RCMA's mission are the educational opportunities offered at its expert-led tutorials. This year's lineup continues the RCMA tradition of offering the finest breakout sessions. RCMA's 2005 tutorials ensure that there is something for everyone.

From production tips to on-site crisis management, to planning a family conference, to writing a winning RFP, these tutorials will provide you with exactly what you need to make your meetings run more smoothly, cost less, and provide more for your attendees. (See the schedule beginning on page 27.)

Part of Your Plan

The RCMA experience will be completed with evenings filled with fun, excitement, humor, and fine dining.

On Thursday, it's the 33rd Annual Gala. This festive evening is always a conference highlight, featuring exquisite cuisine, the President's Award, and musical entertainment.

RCMA is a foundation for professional excellence every year. Make it part of your plan for growth in 2005.

Wednesday and Thursday Luncheon Speakers: Jeffrey B. McMullen and Susan Carnahan

Author of Just in Time Just Isn't Enough! and a contributor to Chicken Soup for the Soul at Work, Jeffrey B. McMullen motivates people to tap the creativity and potential that is within them.

A graduate of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Clown College, he has represented McDonald's restaurants as part of its personality-based marketing programs.

Today, Jeff “puts on the greasepaint” only to perform with some of America's finest symphony orchestras in their special family programs.

Speaking to more than 150,000 persons annually, from the Chickasaw Indian Reservation to Kemper Insurance and Kodak, Susan Carnahan uses her experience in communication to help individuals and organizations change direction to achieve greater success. Susan has been featured on CNN Live speaking on Gender Communications, is author of the book Motivational Leaders, and has developed a series on Lessons in Leadership: There Was a Time Where Brains Were Everything! As she projects her enthusiasm for life, she shares an understanding of the way men and women communicate, the knowledge of what to say and when to say it, and how to make better decisions and be more effective in daily tasks.