Takeaway from Conference: What People Thought About Their Experiences

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May 7, 2013December 4, 2017
in 2013 Spring conference

This was truly one of the best conferences the District has ever had. The keynote speakers were outstanding, and the program top notch! The speaking competition was incredible, and I can truly say I am glad I was not tasked to be a judge. We learn *so* much from listening to speeches of this caliber. I am confident that all attendees came away with a new resolve to continue to improve their speaking and communication skills – and more importantly, to guide and support others in improving their skills. As the breakfast keynote emphasized, we will strive to become “immortals” by having an impact on others. What a tremendous job done by this conference committee and its leadership!

Candy Robinson
Quicksilver Express

Find out more about the keynote speakers here.

I enjoyed photographing all the earthlings and aliens that were hanging out at the conference Friday night.  One of the things I realized is that Toastmasters is real. Before, I just thought it was a game we played.  Speaking to inspire is not a game. But it is a game changer for the individuals who are inspired.

What we do changes people’s lives. What can be more real than that?

As a portrait photographer, it is all about capturing those moments of joy. I use my voice to open those moments for everyone that I photograph.

Here is an example of people having fun while being photographed. I don’t remember what I said but they thought it was funny.

Steve Bomar
Plus-Two Toastmasters

I truly enjoyed Denis Russell’s session “Picture Perfect.” It was fascinating to hear him share about his career that spanned such a large portion of Hollywood history. Denis provided valuable insights on graphics and demonstrated the importance of constantly learning new skills and remaining flexible to change. I believe his session accurately represented the theme, “To Go Boldly”  in many ways.

Nichole Kirschstein
KCM Toastmasters

This was by far the best Toastmasters District Conference I’ve ever attended! Congratulations to the Spring Conference Committee and all who helped make this  “To Boldly Go” weekend such a great success.

Michael Sheridan
Lakeside Club

Did anyone get the license plate of that truck that hit me this weekend? From the fantastic keynote speakers the speaking competitions and the education sessions, I laughed, I cried and I learned. So much valuable information, if only a portion of it sticks I will grow as a speaker and a person. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this event “over the top.”

Chris Hagar
Top Notch Toastmasters

What I took away as nuggets from the speeches and presentations:

  • “You Only Have One Chance To Make A First Impression” from Wally Funk’s keynote speech.
  • During David McAllister’s presentation I learned what I need to take my clubs to next level: 
  • Consider Interest vs. Commitment when selecting new officers.
  • Randy Harvey’s nugget was to Know yourself to select great topics for speeches.
  • Listening Can Lead To Successful Negotiations: Because I was a good listener I was successful in Dana Bowman accepting our keynote speaking engagement request and acceptance of the Communication and Leadership Award. I promoted his Wounded Warrior Gala to the Lockheed Martin Leadership Association I am involved in at work. The promotion was to request a $2,500.00 sponsorship which was a table of 10. Promotion was approved. Ten LMLA members attended.  Also, three others attended and paid the $250.00 seat charge which totaled $3,750.00 towards his foundation. He charges an elaborate fee to speak to provide for his family and to support his foundation. It was an honor to have Dana as our 2013 C&L recipient and share his inspirational presentation.

Karen Hagar
Education Chairman

Find out more about the keynote speakers here.