After a positive Las Vegas alumni event in 2014, Cleveland Chiropractic College and the Cleveland Alumni Association were hoping for a similar result for the second year. With more than 58 alumni and friends of the College in attendance, 2015 surpassed the numbers from the inaugural gathering, and proved that it was more than just “Lady Luck” at work last year. With quality speakers and engaged alumni gathered in the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” the recipe for success was a safe bet.
Held Feb. 27-March 1 at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel, the weekend offered Cleveland alumni from both campuses the chance to earn 12 Continuing Education Units (CEU) from Friday through Sunday. In addition, there was plenty of opportunity for alumni to mingle and visit with colleagues outside of the seminars. And with sessions held only in the morning, there was ample time to see the attractions of Las Vegas as well.
And one of the most dominant attractions of the Vegas skyline was the site of a Cleveland alumni social event on Thursday night. The High Roller, a 550-ft tall Ferris wheel, is the world’s tallest observation wheel. Located in a shopping and entertainment district near the hotel, it was a perfect gathering place for an evening out. Clevelanders and their guests arriving on Thursday night were able to take part in an informal, happy hour event at the wheelhouse of the massive ride. Later, attendees boarded passenger cabins to enjoy a unique view of the city.
There were seminars each morning from 8 a.m. to noon, beginning with Dr. Timothy Young KC Class of ’94, who presented, “The Principles of the Chiropractic.” Next was “Ethics, Boundaries and Informed Consent in Private Practice,” presented by Dr. Brian Porteous LA Class of ’81. Porteous also offered a Clinical Hypnosis Demonstration Saturday after the alumni cocktail luncheon. Closing out the weekend on Sunday morning was “The Medical Model is Failing Women: The New Breast Screening Approach,” presented by Dr. Claire O’Neill, LA Class of ’95.
Surveys given to those in attendance yielded glowing feedback. Some were complimentary of the speakers, the city or the food, while others praised the entire event; with one attendee saying their weekend was “absolutely fantastic.”
Dr. Clark Beckley, vice president of alumni relations at the College, said the value of the weekend went beyond the professional aspect; it was about connecting with those who share a common bond.
“It was an opportunity to connect with alums from both campuses in a fun, world-class city,” Beckley said. “The most memorable thing for me was reconnecting with friends and alums, meeting new docs and making new friends. The Saturday afternoon luncheon, where everyone has an opportunity to share their favorite memories of their time at Cleveland was also special.”
Dr. Patrick Hammond, KC Class of ’97, and Kansas City alumni association president, said he felt the weekend was a great success.
“Alumni spoke very well about the event, and there seemed to be more in attendance than last year,” Hammond said. “And the presenters were excellent.”
Sarah Hilliard, director of alumni services, coordinated the gathering. She said the High Roller was an ideal way to start their time in Vegas and it was talked about for the rest of the weekend by those who took part. And while there were CEUs available to light the professional fires, the social side was nurtured too.
“Events like this are so important because they give all of us a chance to connect in an entertaining yet relaxed environment,” Hilliard said. “It gave us the opportunity to bring KC and LA alumni and friends together to share their treasured memories. It was truly touching to hear the stories shared throughout the weekend.”
Make plans to join your Cleveland family at the 2016 Las Vegas Alumni Event. Stay tuned for more details.
