LAS VEGAS—The Women’s Leadership Conference returns for its 11th year August 7 and 8 at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, according to The MGM Resorts Foundation. Last year, more than 1,000 people attended the conference, a record crowd. The event has sold out over the past three years; organizers encourage early registration to those who plan to attend in 2017.
Sponsored by the nonprofit MGM Resorts Foundation, the mission of the two-day event is to provide women with the developmental tools they need to continuously advance their lives and careers. Each year, the event’s proceeds, after costs, are donated to a local nonprofit that is devoted to the welfare and development of women and girls.
Currently, women make up approximately 51 percent of MGM Resorts employees; about 43 percent of the company’s managers are women.
“The number of women in the U.S. workforce continues to rise, as does this group’s collective demand for opportunities for professional and personal development,” said Phyllis A. James, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity and Corporate Responsibility Officer for MGM Resorts International. “This event has really struck a chord in women who are seeking new ways to expand their horizons and abilities and we strive every year to exceed their expectations.”
Women Still Earn Less
According to the latest statistics from Catalyst: Women in the United States earn more college degrees than men and hold 51.5 percent of all management, professional, and related occupations. Still, women lag in key workforce areas, including senior leadership positions and salaries. Men held 80 percent of board seats at Fortune 500 companies in 2015, the latest numbers available. Women earned 81 percent of men’s salaries based on median weekly earnings for full-time workers.
The conference, first established as the Women of Color Conference in 2007, was meant to provide women from all walks of life with education and development opportunities. Over the past decade, the event has grown in size, scope and reputation, drawing a devoted following. Over the years, men have played an increasingly important part in the conference, as supporters and attendees.
Though it is called Women’s Leadership Conference, the content is relevant to men, as well.
Through April 7, registration is available at a reduced rate of $375; after that, the cost will increase to $485. Registration includes the full conference and all workshops and lectures, a networking reception, and continental breakfasts and lunches catered by MGM Grand. Time is also allotted for attendees to build key professional relationships with others while enjoying the hospitality and entertainment of MGM Grand and other MGM Resorts attractions.
Participating sponsorships are available to organizations or companies who share the vision and goals of this conference.
