IPMA 2017 National Conference Summary
By Kelly Ash, Director of Operations
The International Practice Management
Association (IPMA) and over 200 of its
members, business partners, and supporters
took over the Big Easy to participate in
the 33rd Annual Conference & Expo held
October 11-13, 2017, at the JW Marriott in
New Orleans, Louisiana. With increased
member attendance, unparalleled
networking, and exceptional educational
programming, the 2017 IPMA Conference &
Expo is one for the books.
Against the backdrop of New Orleans
culture, this year’s three-day program
featured the latest trends, current issues,
and distinct challenges that face practice
managers and the support professionals
they supervise. Educational sessions
presented by 27 distinguished speakers
focused on human resources, technology
and innovation, communications,
organizational management, career
development, and leadership. The IPMA
hosted four inspiring and engaging keynote
speakers this year, including Caroline
Ceniza-Levine, Eric Seeger, Terrie Campbell,
and Tracie Crook. Rave reviews from 2017
attendees make it clear — you need to be at
the next IPMA Conference & Expo.
The IPMA welcomed business partners,
exhibitors, and sponsors from across the
United States and Canada to its sold-out
expo, and — with their enduring support —
delivered on its pledge to provide the most
efficient means for practice managers to
evaluate the newest products and services
available from legal industry service
providers. Between the in-depth, one-on-one
conversations and the entertaining social
festivities, attendees and exhibitors alike
applauded the unique relationship-building
opportunities offered through IPMA
engagement. Ask anyone, (and we did) —
“Networking is the most valuable thing
about the IPMA conference.”
During the IPMA’s Annual Business
Meeting, members recognized the many
accomplishments made within the
association over the past 12 months.
Outgoing President Deborah Clarke honored
Brian Bernhard with the IPMA President’s
Award for his outstanding support, loyalty,
hard work, and commitment to the IPMA
over his 20 years of membership. Two upand
comers within the association, Jane
Anne Gross and Emily Visone, were awarded
the Rising Star Award this year. Gross
has taken on many new roles within the
association over the past few years, helping
lead the membership committee to one of
the highest retention rates we have ever seen
and increasing new membership. Visone is
always willing to help out wherever she can,
and she has not backed down from any of the
challenges or positions thrown her way. Both
Gross and Visone have accepted positions
on the 2017-2018 Board of Directors and will
continue to lead the IPMA.
The New York chapter was awarded
the Strength of Many Award for their
commitment in working together to
bring the New York chapter back to life.
The Philadelphia chapter was honored
with the Pro Bono/Community Spirit
Award. Philadelphia chapter members
take time every year to give back to their
community and volunteer their time at the
Ronald McDonald House. The association
awarded four On the Spot Awards, and
the recipients were: Tara Eberhardt, Julie
Meckstroth, Michelle Hess, and Shae Korres.
CT Corporation — and Victor Bjorge
specifically — were recognized during the
award presentations for being the Platinum
Sponsor at this year’s conference and for their
unwavering support of IPMA over the years.
Clarke announced the 2017-2018
Board of Directors and passed the gavel
to incoming president Gary Melhuish.
Melhuish spoke about what the next year
holds for the IPMA and all that he plans to
accomplish alongside the incoming board of
directors. Melhuish challenged each of the
association’s members to do just one thing
for the association this year: to volunteer
for a committee, revise a resource, write an
article, or run for office. Our members are
our greatest asset, and Melhuish is working
to make the association even better with the
help of our members. Through thunderous
applause, and a standing ovation, Melhuish
thrilled conference participants with a
glimpse of everything 2018 has in store,
including our planned trip to Orlando for
next year’s conference.
Save the date for the 34th Annual IPMA
Conference & Expo scheduled for October 17-18,
2018, in Orlando, Florida at the Hyatt Regency
Grand Cypress. Join the IPMA with one of our
new membership plus conference packages and
get a discount on membership when you join!
For details, please visit www.theipma.org.
www.ParalegalToday.com Q4 - 2017 5
IPMA 2017-2018
Board of Directors
Brian Bernhard,
recipient of the IPMA’s
2017 President’s Award
with outgoing president
Deborah Clarke
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ROUND-UP
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