2021 CSMFO Virtual Conference | 21 Reasons to Attend

By Melissa Manchester, CSMFO Executive Director

I can’t believe last year has finally ended. 2020 was paradoxically both the slowest and fastest year ever. The pandemic feels interminable, and yet I’m mentally still stuck in March 2020. If you’re anything like me, getting into the routine of what you do every December/January will help keep you grounded. 

One of those things you would typically do around this time is register for the CSMFO Annual Conference! 

I’m disappointed I won’t see you all in person this year, but there’s still plenty to be excited about for our upcoming first-ever virtual conference. In honor of our 2021 conference, here’s my list of 21 reasons to attend:

  • The training will be top-notch, as always. 
  • You can snack during the sessions. 
  • All 48 sessions will be available to view up to 6 months after the conference. Which means all those times you bemoaned having to choose which session to attend? This year you can hit ALL OF THEM.
  • You can wear your pink bunny slippers and no one will know.
  • It’s so affordable! Not only are there no travel or hotel costs, but members get all three days for only $200!
  • Remember how great futurist Rebecca Ryan was last year? She’ll be back for another keynote!
  • Did I mention I’m hosting this year?! With our Creative Director, David Garrison. You’ll get to see my house!
  • Two words: Michael. Coleman.
  • Your cat (or dog or hamster or [your pet here]) gets to attend the conference with you.
  • There will be some great reactions to surprise awards. You won’t want to miss it. 
  • Check out our virtual exhibit hall, and chat one-on-one with vendors, live!
  • There will be a virtual magician on Thursday. …you know you’re curious.
  • Ever tried virtual karaoke? Me neither, but there’s a first time for everything. 
  • Rabia Siddique will be our opening keynote on Tuesday. Her story is incredible. You won’t want to miss it. 
  • You know how there’s always so much food at our conferences? Not this year. No risk of overeating!
  • Pants optional but do wear some bottoms.
  • Meditative Moments and group yoga will help you destress.
  • Get the skinny on CalPERS during Wednesday’s general session! 
  • Three words: Virtual Dueling Pianos.
  • This year’s conference won’t take you away from your family. Your kids can attend for free!
  • It’s CSMFO’s annual event. How could you NOT?

Join us for this premiere CSMFO event, sure to be a virtual event like no other. I look forward to seeing all of your lovely faces on February 16-18!

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Melissa Manchester, CAE, has served as CSMFO’s Executive Director since January 2009. Melissa is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in administrative and management services to trade associations. Melissa graduated from California State University, Sacramento, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English, and earned her MBA from Walden University with a concentration in nonprofit administration. Melissa received the prestigious Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) in 2010, and does everything within her power to bring not just exceptional and professional service but also fun and laughter to her clients.

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