Keynote
Best of Show Events
What separates a well-run event from one people talk about long after it ends?
In this interactive keynote, Darin Harris invites UW–Madison event professionals to rethink what “success” really means. Whether you’re planning trainings, conferences, forums, or campus-wide gatherings, you’ll explore how to design events that don’t just deliver content—but create connection, energy, and lasting impact.
Drawing on standout examples from campus and beyond, Darin will share practical approaches you can immediately apply in your own work—no matter the size or type of event.
You’ll walk away with:
- Four Event Frames to help you design stronger, more intentional experiences from the start
- Participant engagement strategies that move people from passive attendees to active contributors
- Real time tools to help you stay grounded, adaptable, and creative during high-stakes moments
Expect to leave with fresh ideas, renewed confidence, and a new lens for creating events that truly stand out.
Closing
BIG FINISH: Closing Experience
Have you ever walked away from a conference inspired—but unsure what to actually do with it?
Don’t let that happen here.
Join us for the BIG FINISH, a dynamic and engaging closing experience designed to help you capture what mattered most, connect with others, and turn your insights into clear, meaningful action.
This isn’t a typical wrap-up. It’s your chance to:
- Reflect on what truly stood out
- Share ideas and energy with fellow UW–Madison event professionals
- Leave with real commitments you’re excited—and ready—to put into practice
We’ll end the Event Management Forum the way great events should end: with clarity, connection, and momentum you can carry forward.
Don’t miss it.
About the Speaker
Darin Harris designs and leads experiences people don’t forget.
At the University of Wisconsin–Madison, he has brought to life standout gatherings like the BIG Learning Event, Birth to Five Forum, Climate Quest, and the legendary Journey of Facilitation and Collaboration. Beyond campus, he has facilitated and hosted national events including Climate Fast Forward, Scrum Day, and CultureCon.
Darin’s work goes beyond agendas and logistics—he creates environments where people fully participate, connect, and contribute. Blending interactive design, playful energy, and a deeply human approach, he transforms events into experiences that resonate long after they end. His style has engaged audiences across the region, throughout the U.S., and internationally in Europe and Asia.
In his keynote at the Event Management Forum, Darin will challenge us to rethink what an event can be—and how to make every moment we gather more meaningful, impactful, and alive.
