[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/inspire-conf.jpg” caption=”Conference delegates gather in the RBG atrium to register & refresh.”]”Thought-provoking.” “Excellent setting.” “Can't remember when I enjoyed a conference more.”

These comments are only a snapshot of the feedback from the recent Inspiring from Within McMaster employee conference which took place March 2 and 3 at the Royal Botanical Gardens(RBG). Presented by the 2006 Inspiring from Within conference organizing committee, in partnership with the Working at McMaster steering committee, this year's conference focused on “Connections – it starts with you”. This year's theme developed from the concept that whether work, finance, family or health-related, all aspects of our lives are interdependent.

Due to the overwhelming popularity of the event, conference organizers added an additional 100 spots, which necessitated the move from the previous venue at the Ancaster Old Mill to the RBG. Jeanette Button, chair of the conference organizing committee said, Although we were reasonably certain that this event would sell out, we were surprised at the tremendous response; the Conference was completely sold out within one day. It is very gratifying for the committee to see these results.”

Featured speakers presented on a variety of topics including 'Well-being for Stressful Times', 'Success in the Knowledge Age', 'Boost Your EQ', 'Managing the Sandwich Generation', 'Life, Work & Childcare' and 'Yoga'.

To learn more about the conference, please visit:
www.workingatmcmaster.ca/development/inspiring/.

2006 organizing committee members: Jeanette Button (Chair), Stephanie Cherwinski, Tina Horton, Erika Kustra, Serge Venier, Ruth Nicholson, Grazyna Ziolkowski, Grace Ferracuti, Sharon Baptist, Lynne Taylor, Sylvia Riselay and Anita Toth.