“We Can’t Wait to Say Hello!”

What do steaks, college baseball, Boy’s Town and the second richest man in the world all have in common? They’re all a part of the culture and community of Omaha! Though out the year, I’ve asked dozens of people if they’ve ever been to Omaha. Surprisingly, I found only a handful that recalled a trip to this Midwest city. Most had only heard of it, and mostly because of the list above.

So, for those of you unfamiliar with Omaha and its offerings, let me assure – you’re in for a treat if you have plans to attend the 2018 Emerge Conference this month. Omaha’s tagline – We Can’t Wait to Say Hello!  – is truly indicative of their welcoming, Midwest spirit and culture. You’ll find a midsized city (population just under 500,000), only slightly smaller than nearby Kansas City and slightly larger than Minneapolis.

While it’s claims to fame tend to be steak and baseball, you’ll find so much more. A world-class convention center sits conveniently downtown, connected to the Hilton Omaha and the newly opened Omaha Marriott. Nearly 1,000 rooms are across the street from the center, and hundreds more just a few blocks away in the Old Market District.

The Old Market District features an original cobblestone street and historic buildings down this blocks-long area, featuring one-of-a-kind dining options, numerous shops and boutiques as well as stunning architecture. An easy walk from the Emerge hotels, you’ll want to spend some time exploring this area.

An award-winning zoo (site of the Emerge Opening Reception), Boy’s Town, Omaha Steaks and a great hospitality community await your arrival.

The 2018 Emerge Conference will also feature some exciting changes from previous years. Monday evening’s early arriver’s reception will be hosted in the newly opened Omaha Marriott at the Capital District and will allow you the opportunity to explore this brand new hotel.

Our Super Tuesday lineup features an Audio Visual Bootcamp, three Impact Omaha service opportunities and a Hand’s On Hospitality session at the Hilton Omaha. The afternoon offerings include three tour options to further explore the sites and tastes of the city.

Two full days of programming await you with four general sessions featuring Kai Kight, Immaculee Iligabiza and Horst Schultze. Over 25 breakout sessions, including tracks for senior planners, suppliers, human trafficking and legal, are yours for the choosing.

The Emerge Expo is always an exciting opportunity to explore, reconnect and research venues and destinations for future events.  This year’s Expo features new timing, an afternoon dessert option, appointments and fabulous door prizes, as well as hundreds of exhibitors, eager to partner with our planner attendees.

Don’t miss out on your chance to join the RCMA community at the most exciting, faith-based gathering of the year. Start our 2018 with energy and connection in Omaha!