I am heading back to Louisville from Morgantown, WV. I have been going to the Integrate conference now since 2010, and it seems like every year, the conference and experience gets better and better. As you can see here, the conference schedule is packed with some of the leading thought leaders in the industry.
The conference is hosted by the IMC Graduate Online program at WVU, which I have been a part of for the last six years. The staff, students, and professors who are part of this program are truly amazing and inspiring. The student brand ambassadors did a great job in summarizing the great points made during some of the sessions over the last few days.
This year’s conference was what I call not only inspiring, but uplifting. I have never been to a conference where you arrive one minute and you immediately realize it is time to go. The conference was fast paced, full of exciting information and knowledge on current trends, and a place where old friends and new friends come together to talk about IMC.
There were so many great presentations, but there were a few that I felt really were amazing. Scott Cuppari (Coca-Cola Freestyle) was great – I heard from him a few years ago and his presentation was uplifting and connected really well with the trend of mobile personalization and data on a global and local level. Paul Roetzer was also great – what a wealth of information to have in just an hour! Andy Flick was also inspiring – one of the best graduate students I have seen in my years in teaching. His insights on his experience working in the music industry was phenomenal. He has a gift as a great storyteller and integrated communicator.
The other highlight for me was to hear WVU President Gordon Gee present as one of the keynotes. What and inspiring leader! His humor, story telling, and personality resonated with everyone at the keynote dinner. He walks the walk and talks the talk as a social leader. I felt energized and inspired by hearing his speech and it reminded me of some of the things I have experienced during my time as a professor. Plus, I love the fact he is known for his selfies and bow tie – great personal brand connection!
Overall, these past few days have been a whirlwind of great experiences. We are able to come together from all over the US and share insights, stories, and be in the same place for a great event. It is sad to leave everyone and wait another year to be part of this great event again. However, that’s what social media is for!
Also, we are seeing more university programs try to establish online programs both at the undergraduate and graduate level. However, I would suggest you all to check out what WVU is doing. They are not just building an online program, but a true sustainable community and family for IMC professionals. By investing in your program, you are able to get so much in return with long term relationships and knowledge building. In my own opinion, they are truly a leader in the field.
I’d like to thank all of the great students (and graduates) I have met during these past few days. You are all doing amazing things! Keep up the great work! Special shout out to Tyler (congrats on winning the social media contest!), Colin, Andy, Julie, Kat, Lisa, Nicole, Sarah, Amanda, and Kim. Can’t tell you how proud I am of all of you! Great seeing fellow colleagues as well at the conference – wishing you all safe travels back home!
I would like to thank Chad, Rick, Briana, and Nicole for their truly amazing dedication and hard work to put forth this great event and build this amazing community. Thank you! I can’t wait until next year’s event!
Best Wishes,
