Soba.America.E-Newsletter.2017

2016 HOUSTON CONVENTION
MILESTONES AND LESSONS LEARNED
THE CONVENTION SET THE FOLLOWING MILESTONES:
1. ONE-STOP-SHOP:
All activities were in one spectacular location: the 4-star Hilton Westchase Hotel, which
was perfect in terms of class and logistics. In addition to world-class amenities like
state-of-the-art accommodations, childcare, a conference room for deliberations, and a
beautiful ballroom, it was also logistically ideal because Sobans and Sobanese could
relax without worrying about driving and moving between venues.
2. RECORD ATTENDANCE:
Starting on Thursday with the Welcome Party at SOBA Houston President Kenneth
Njie’s house, Houston knew we had a problem as the attendance at President Njie’s
house was standing room only. Friday night celebrations at “Chez Marie” were packed
and with DJ Skipper on the turn-tables, some people may have thought it was the Gala
night. The deliberations were very well attended, the Gala night was standing room only
until 4am, and the picnic also had record attendance of over 250 guests.
3. TECHNOLOGY:
The National Leadership Team unveiled the latest in voting and badge identification
technology for our deliberations, which helped us speed up the discussion and voting
process and also helped to maintain the integrity of our organization.
4. FUNDS RAISED:
We exceeded our fundraising expectations, with contributions from Sobans and several
other associations, signaling that our guests truly enjoyed our “Southern Hospitality”
here in Houston.
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