Three hundred and sixty employees attended this year's Inspiring from Within conference, which took place March 1 and 2 at the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Presented by the 2007 “Inspiring from Within” Organizing Committee, in partnership with the Working at McMaster Steering Committee, this year's conference focused on the theme “Celebrate.” And celebrate they did.

This was the fifth consecutive year that employees were able to enjoy a “made for McMaster” opportunity that included professional development, networking with colleagues and a retreat from the long days of winter. Five successful years was a milestone worthy of celebration.

Featured speakers presented on a variety of topics including The Brain Party, Dare to Dream, Anything is Possible, Resolving Conflict in the Workplace and Seven Humour Habits for Workplace Wellness.

Speakers who presented at this year's conference included a mix of McMaster faculty, graduates, athletes, coaches, motivational speakers and counselors.

Consistent with the theme of “Celebration,” delegates were asked to submit personal stories that celebrated their personal and professional achievements which were read throughout the conference.

Feedback from conference delegates indicates that this year's conference hit the mark again. Comments included, “Wonderful from start to finish;” “Creative, thought provoking and very entertaining;” “Each year it seems to get better;” “Totally inspiring — just what I needed. Related to my personal life and professional life.”

This conference is a high point for many employees at McMaster and has been casually named “the most sought after event on campus” by many who have had the pleasure to attend.

For more information regarding the 2007 Conference, and to view the photo galleries, please click here.

The 2007 Organizing Committee members include Sylvia Riselay (chair), Sharon Baptist, Jeanette Button, Stephanie Cherwinski, Grace Ferracuti, Tina Horton, Elvia Horvath, Domenica Mazepa, Ruth Nicholson, Melissa Robinson, Bob Stacey, Lynne Taylor, Anita Toth, Serge Venier and Grazyna Ziolkowski.