By Sharon Graff-Radell, INA First Vice President
While I highly recommend attending conferences for the in-depth and industry focused learning that occurs in the workshops, the networking opportunities and the life-long relationships that are formed, I also recommend attending conference because it is a great way to see amazing cities across the country.
Over the past 25 years, I have attended at least 21 INA Annual Conferences in various locations across the States and I’ve also taken some pretty amazing adventures while doing so. I attended my first country music concert and rodeo in Dallas, visited the Grand Ole Opry and learned to line dance in Nashville, saw the Blue Man Group and walked the Freedom Trail in Boston, and visited all of the national monuments when we held our conference in Washington, D.C.
With friends and colleagues I dined close to the animals and toured the famous San Diego Zoo in California and enjoyed southern hospitality in Atlanta. In San Francisco I joined a group who took a trolley tour of the city, while another group headed off to Alcatraz. While in St. Louis I rode to the top of the arch, while in New Orleans, LA I enjoyed Zydeko music and jumbalaya — not to mention Hurricanes at Pat O’Brien’s.
I’ve seen many amazing shows in Las Vegas and explored a variety of unbelievable hotels on the strip. I’ve taken in inter-coastal viewing of the mansions in Fort Lauderdale by boat and followed it up with a late night swim at the beach. I’ve relaxed by the pool and piano bar in Scottsdale while others teed off at the renowned golf courses.
From a New England clam bake in Stamford to Philly cheese steaks and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia , from touring the Dali Museum in Tampa, to sitting in a hot tub in Vail staring at the Rocky Mountains, I have shared so many cultural and fascinating experiences while attending INA Annual Conferences, more than I can even bring to light.
As I’ll soon retire from the board after 16 years of service, I’ve been reflecting on how much my time with INA has not only helped me to have one of the most successful agencies in the country, but has enriched my life with friends and experiences that I will always treasure.
Susan and Danielle, along with a few Family Helpers, will be heading to Las Vegas, Nevada for the International Nanny Association’s 27th Annual Conference, May 3-6, 2012. It’s not too late to join them. If you’ve never been to a conference, consider joining INA. You may be eligible to take 50% off of your conference registration!