IECA Conference

Monday and Tuesday I spent time at the Independent Educational Consultants Conference in Philadelphia. The conference started off Monday evening with a dinner with an American Bandstand theme complete with 50s music and a meal of meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole and jello with fruit cocktail in it. I found myself at the “kid’s” table populated with young admission counselors from Avon Old Farm’s School, St. Margarent’s School, Cushing Academy, Pine Manor College and Western Reserve Academy. Good conversationa and good fun.

Tuesday was the information swap. I “personed” the NOLS table and was busy for two and a half hours straight. Most of the counselors I spoke with have recommended NOLS to students and I was surprised to find that many of them are NOLS parents. I also met quite a few folks who ran outdoor therapy programs. We spent a bit of time talking about NOLS Professional Training consulting and WMI medical training for staff.

The lunchtime keynote speaker was wonderful, a fellow named Eric Chester. He has published a number of books about “Generation Why?”. He offered many insights into today’s young people and their approach to life. Really good stuff!

Bruce Palmer, NOLS marketing director

IECA