Mar
31
Each year, the University of Oregon chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) puts on their Main Event, transforming the typically busy Lillis Business Complex Atrium into an energetic, decorated casino. This year’s theme was Mad Men, so business professional and students alike channeled their inner Don Draper style, sipped mocktinis, and gambled the night away.
The night kicked off with a buffet-style dinner and eventually moved to an introduction from the UO AMA president, Ben Rieder. This was followed by the keynote speaker, Marci Hansen, who told us of her personal experience in the marketing field. Hansen currently works as the chief marketing officer at an innovative company named SheerID and also teaches business at Lane Community College. She has worked for companies such as Palo Alto Software, Crafts Americana, PETA, Amazon.com and Eddie Bauer. Hansen’s main message was her belief that marketing campaigns can change the world, in the biggest and smallest of ways. Her remarkable experience provided valuable examples with which to demonstrate her idea. Hansen was a very impressive woman and her conviction to change the world through her work inspired the room.
Harry Ritchie’s Jewelers, the main sponsor for the AMA and the Main Event, generously set up a table where attendees could rent out pieces of jewelry to wear for the duration of the event. Lining the room were various casino table games set up for fake gambling where the more you won, the greater chance you had to win the raffle prizes! The event also featured two different selections of “mocktinis” to enjoy during introductions. How fun!
I was delighted to be seated at the Harry Ritchie’s Jewelers table and was lucky enough to converse with some of their top businesspeople as well as the company’s interns. After the raffle prizes, more networking and a delicious piece of cake, the night concluded.
This was my first time attending Main Event and I am very happy I went. I learned a lot about my aspirations in the business world and my goals to become a successful businesswoman. I think it’s important for students and experienced professionals to meet, greet, and share experiences and perhaps even advice.
I appreciate the time required from planners, executives, professionals, businesses and students that made this event possible. I would also like to thank all of the generous sponsors for making our event amazing and, of course, all of the AMA club members. Thank you all!
Samantha Totton
Written by UO Business
