1. education
2. alumni and reunions

Register Today for
NAM’s Annual Public
Affairs Conference!
April 12-14, 2015
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
New Orleans, LA
The National Association of Manufacturers’ Annual Public
Affairs Conference is the perfect opportunity to enhance your
expertise and discuss topics that impact our economic and
political future.
This conference has become the nation’s premiere annual
gathering of public affairs and government relations
executives from corporations and associations and focuses on
grassroots involvement, best practices and policy initiatives
over the course of 2 days.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND?
DISCOVER: Gain insightful knowledge on the latest information regarding policy, advocacy
and grassroots strategies.
NETWORK: Meet and build relationships with fellow public affairs and government relations
executives from corporations and associations.
INTERACT: Talk with your colleagues, ask questions and participate in group
discussions during our interactive sessions.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
„„ Public and government affairs vice presidents
„„ Directors and managers or policy development executives, including
government relations and political affairs
„„ Association corporate communications and public relations executives
„„ Association government relations executives
„„ Heads of Washington offices
„„ Washington representatives
„„ Grassroots managers
„„ Policy lobbyists
„„ PAC administrators
„„ Key contact managers
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 2
AGENDA
SUNDAY, APRIL 12
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Registration and Conference Check-In
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM FOYER
Noon – 2:30 p.m.
NPASC Quarterly Meeting and Luncheon
(OPEN TO NPASC MEMBERS ONLY)
3:00 p.m.
Conference Welcome & Opening Session
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The New Political Environment on Capitol Hill
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
It’s official: Republicans are in charge of the House and Senate. This new leadership is
expected to bring about new questions, new policies and new opportunities. With so
many pressing issues on the horizon, ranging from energy to sequestration to immigration
reform, both sides of the political aisle have reason to offer an olive branch in an effort to
demonstrate to the American public that they can, in fact, lead. During this session, panelists
will discuss what’s in store for the 114th Congress and what manufacturers can expect to
face leading up to the 2016 elections.
„„ Luke Hatzis, Principal, Capitol Counsel
„„ Gabe Horwitz, Director of the Economic Program, Third Way
„„ Aric Newhouse, Senior Vice President, Policy and Government Relations, NAM (moderator)
4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
All Politics is Local
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Join Jeremy Alford, publisher and editor of LaPolitics.com and LaPolitics Weekly, to discuss
the current political trends in Washington and what to expect as we head into the 2016
presidential election.
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Opening Reception
CRESCENT VIEW – LOCATED ON LEVEL TWELVE OF THE RITZ-CARLTON
7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Opening Dinner
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 3
AGENDA
MONDAY, APRIL 13
7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
NAM Office Hours
MAISON
7:30 a.m. – 8:15 am.
Breakfast
AUDUBON – LOCATED ON LEVEL ONE
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Workforce Development
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Manufacturing has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years and now includes
some of the most technical and fastest-growing careers today. Despite this growth,
manufacturers everywhere continue to have difficulty in finding skilled workers, and it’s not
expected to get better anytime soon. Inspiring an interest in science, technology, engineering
and math (STEM) and manufacturing can create prosperous career opportunities for
today’s students and your business. Join our experts as they discuss ways to spotlight
manufacturing as a career and change the face of modern manufacturing.
„„ Jon Chapman, Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, EverFi
„„ Nick D’Antonio, Program Manager, Manufacturing Institute (moderator)
„„ Ken Martin, VP Community Affairs, National Hockey League
9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Break
9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Making the Best Decisions for Your Company:
Shaping Your Communications Strategy
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Effective communication is fundamental to getting your message out to the public. In today’s
virtual world, we can do this through many platforms, such as broadcast, digital, print and
social media. However, as these platforms constantly change and competition increases,
how can you cut through the clutter and ensure that you successfully reach your audience?
Join our panel as they discuss ways to engage your audience and communicate your
message effectively through existing and new platforms.
„„ Megan Barnett Bloomgren, Partner, DCI Group
„„ Victoria Podesta, Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, Archer Daniels Midland
„„ Julie Soderlund, Vice President, Global Communications, Philip Morris International
(moderator)
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NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 4
AGENDA
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Spouse/Guest Activity
(DEPART FROM LEVEL ONE OF THE RITZ-CARLTON AT 9:30 A.M.)
The New Orleans School of Cooking
Learn the basics of Louisiana Cooking in a way you’ll never forget. Fun is the primary
ingredient in the kitchen. During your private hands-on class, you will do more than just watch
and eat- after all, you’re the chef! You will be cutting, chopping, and sautéing a full meal with
one of the cooking schools Creole/Cajun expert chefs. After the hard work is done, you will sit
down and enjoy the meal that you have just created. These classes are not limited to “foodies;”
a great time will be shared by all!
10:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Break
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Building a Coalition: Finding and Developing Champions in
Congress
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Manufacturers in the United States are growing the economy, but we can’t do it alone. We
need pragmatic, pro-growth allies in Congress to adopt the manufacturing agenda and
get things done. How do we identify the problem solvers in Congress, especially as party
labels become a less reliable indicator of a member’s pro-growth tendencies? How do we
ensure consistent messaging and find a unified coalition voice? Hear from our panel on the
role the business community can play in helping to foster relationships between like-minded
legislators of all political stripes to help achieve action on issues that matter to manufacturers.
„„ Paul A. Brathwaite, Principal, Podesta Group
„„ Brad Fitch, President & CEO, Congressional Management Foundation
„„ Tiffany N. Adams, Vice President, Public Affairs (moderator)
12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Break
12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Networking Lunch
AUDUBON – LOCATED ON LEVEL ONE
1:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Break
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 5
AGENDA
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Best Practices from the Fishbowl!
BROADMOOR AND FOUNTAINBLEAU
This dual session will give participants an opportunity to discuss issues on any given topic
that may be keeping them awake at night. Are you facing a particular challenge or obstacle?
Are you curious about an aspect of the NAM’s policy or advocacy processes? No question
will go unanswered! Submit questions anonymously for your corporate peers to answer
during this session.
3:00 p.m.
Free Afternoon
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Reception
COURTYARD
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Dinner on Your Own
New Orleans offers one of the most incredible and vibrant outlets for exceptional dining and
unforgettable cuisine. Take this evening to explore all that the city has to offer and more. A
listing of restaurant recommendations is included in the workbook under the tab “Things to Do.”
TUESDAY, APRIL 14
7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
NAM Office Hours
MAISON
7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Breakfast
AUDUBON – LOCATED ON LEVEL ONE
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
International Economic Affairs
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Despite the overall volatility on Capitol Hill, the environment for passing major trade legislation
in the 114th Congress is positive. With Trade Promotion Authority likely to be taken up under
the new Senate, what major issues will legislators need to address in an effort to boost
exports and gain greater access to foreign markets? Will new bills be introduced to enact
the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill or the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank? Panelists will
discuss options aimed at strengthening competitiveness, enhancing economic growth and
supporting manufacturing in the United States.
„„ Jamie Hollenberg, Manager, Government Relations, Honeywell
„„ John Rauber, Director, Washington Affairs, Deere & Company
„„ Stephen Waguespack, President, Louisiana Association of Business & Industry (moderator)
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 6
AGENDA
9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Break
9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
How to Influence the Regulatory Process on Energy and
Environmental Regulations
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
Congress passing legislation is only one part of the legislative process. After a bill becomes
law, federal agencies must often implement it. How can manufacturers have a voice in the
regulatory process of our government? What tools and strategies can we use in the energy
and environmental space to ensure that rules are crafted with the manufacturing community’s
needs in mind? Join us for an interactive discussion on effective ways to influence the regulatory
process and review practical strategies you can use to influence the rulemaking process.
„„ Professor Susan Dudley, Director, Regulatory Studies Center, Trachtenberg School of
Public Policy and Public Administration, The George Washington University
„„ Ambassador C. Boyden Gray, Partner, Boyden Gray & Associates
„„ Ross Eisenberg, Vice President, Energy and Resources Policy (moderator)
10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Positioning Business for the 2016 Elections
LAFAYETTE BALLROOM
The 2014 election cycle saw the resurgence of business as a driving force in the
political arena. With the business community engaging in primary election activity, fewer
manufacturing-friendly members of Congress faced primary challenges, and very few were
defeated in general election matchups. How can we continue to build on that momentum
during the critical 2016 presidential election cycle to elect more pro-manufacturing
candidates? Hear from our business trade association partners on the collaborative efforts
executed during the 2014 cycle and the ways your company can work with us in 2016 and
beyond to shape the political landscape.
„„ Dave Carney, CEO and President, Norway Hill Associates, Inc.
„„ Nicole Crain, Vice President, Government Relations, Iowa Association of Business and
Industry
„„ Ned Monroe, Senior Vice President, External Relations, NAM (moderator)
12:00 p.m.
Conference Wrap-Up/Adjourn
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NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 7
GENERAL INFORMATION
CONFERENCE FEES
Member: $1,000
Additional Member: $900
Non-Member: $1,200
Additional Non-Member: $1,100
Spouse/Guest: $300 (includes Sunday night opening reception and dinner, Monday night
reception and a group guest activity)
Fees include conference registration, favor, workbook, receptions, dinners, breakfasts and
lunches. Fees do not cover accommodations. There is a $100 service fee for all cancellations
made after Monday, April 6, 2015. No refunds will be made after this date. Substitutions may
be made at any time.
REGISTRATION
Please visit www.nam.org/paconference2015 to register for the NAM’s Annual Public
Affairs Conference.
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
921 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 524-1331
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NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 8
ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, NEW ORLEANS
Immerse yourself in New Orleans history at our luxury hotel on the edge of the
French Quarter.
Set within the historic 1908 Beaux Arts Maison Blanche building, The Ritz-Carlton, New
Orleans retains the grace and charm of an antebellum mansion. Guests of this French
Quarter hotel have the advantage of staying near popular area attractions, including Bourbon
Street, but can also experience local traditions in our Courtyard, which hosts special events
with our Crawfish Concierge, Snowball Sommelier and Oyster Butler. The Ritz-Carlton, New
Orleans offers a peaceful retreat with features including:
„„ Luxury guest rooms and suites blending elegant décor with modern amenities
„„ Live music at the Davenport Lounge
„„ M bistro, offering a farm-to-table dining experience
„„ Destination spa, the largest in the city, offering more than 100 treatments
„„ Enchanting wedding venues and state-of-the-art meeting spaces
„„ Courtyard, offering a space for guests to relax or host private events
The NAM has secured a limited number of guest rooms at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
at the special rate of $269 per night, single/double, plus applicable taxes. Room taxes are
subject to change at any time without prior notice. We have a limited number of rooms
available, once the room block commitment has been met (this may occur before cut-off
date), you may not be able to obtain the special NAM group rate.
To make your hotel arrangements by phone, you may call The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
at (504) 524-1331 or toll free at (800) 826-8987. Registrants are responsible for making
and canceling their own hotel room reservations. Be sure to identify yourself as a “National
Association of Manufacturers (NAM)” registrant to obtain this special room rate. All
reservations must be guaranteed with a major credit card. You must make your room
reservation by Friday, March 20, 2015.
Note: Once the room block commitment has been met (possibly before cut-off) or released,
you may not be able to obtain our special rate.
For questions regarding registration and hotel information, please
contact Shonzia Thompson, the NAM’s Senior Director of Meetings
Management at (202) 637-3070 or sthompson@nam.org.
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 9
TRAVEL INFORMATION
AIRPORT
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans is 20-30 minutes from Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY).
TRANSPORTATION
TAXI SERVICE
Taxi service is available at approximately $33 from the Louis Armstrong International
Airport. Please note $14 will be added to the standard fare for each additional passenger.
AIRPORT SHUTTLE
Super Shuttle Service is also available starting at $20 one way or $38 round trip. Ticket
booths are located on the lower level in the baggage claim area.
RENTAL CARS
Rental car companies are available from major chains.
PARKING
Valet is available at the hotel for $45 per evening.
If you require transportation assistance, or if you have other personal requests, please call
Concierge Services at (504) 524-1331 ext. 4200.
DRESS
Business casual and/or resort casual attire is appropriate for all meetings. High temperatures
in April average 78° and lows average 59°.
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 10
SPOUSE/GUEST INFORMATION
REGISTRATION
Spouse/Guest Registration: $300
Spouses/guests are invited and encouraged to attend all meetings, meals and social
functions during the conference. Please note, if you have a spouse/guest attending any part
of the conference, they must pre-register. For more information, please contact Candice
Austin, the NAM’s Director of Public Affairs and Member Engagement at (202) 637-3122 or
caustin@nam.org.
SPOUSE/GUEST ACTIVITY
The New Orleans School of Cooking
524 St. Louis Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
Monday, April 13, 2015
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Learn the basics of Louisiana Cooking in a way you’ll never forget. Fun is the primary
ingredient in the kitchen. During your private hands-on class, you will do more than just watch
and eat- after all, you’re the chef! You will be cutting, chopping, and sautéing a full meal with
one of the cooking schools Creole/Cajun expert chefs. After the hard work is done, you will sit
down and enjoy the meal that you have just created. These classes are not limited to “foodies;”
a great time will be shared by all!
REGISTER ONLINE
NAM’S ANNUAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS CONFERENCE · 11
www.nam.org/paconference2015
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