Annette Galarza

is an experienced Program/Project Manager with over 20 years delivering results across Fintech software upgrades, events / trade show management, and non-profit initiatives. She has managed global projects and brings deep expertise in aligning cross-functional teams, streamlining operations, and driving measurable outcomes—with a proven revenue impact exceeding $200 million. She recently earned the Prompt Engineering certificate from PMI.  She holds the PMP and Certified Scrum Master (CSM) credentials, offering a structured yet adaptive approach to project leadership.

She currently serves as Board President of the Smithtown Special Library District, where she has been a dedicated board member for over five years. She is actively leading a community-focused campaign to support a critical bond referendum.

Beyond her library leadership, she contributes her expertise to the Exhibition and Events Workforce Development Foundation, where she is helping develop curriculum frameworks to prepare the next generation of industry professionals. Her work reflects a strong commitment to strategic planning, community engagement, and purpose-driven leadership.

 

Joanne Meurer

is a marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and creative director with more than 15 years of experience building brands, scaling operations, and driving business growth across hospitality, construction, real estate, arts, and live events. Her work consistently bridges strategic vision with execution — from sponsorship development and trade show positioning to brand architecture, revenue strategy, and cross-sector collaboration.

As the owner and operator of a local hospitality establishment, Joanne leads and manages a team of more than 15 staff members, overseeing operations, marketing, financial performance, and customer experience. This hands-on leadership provides her with direct insight into workforce development, talent management, and the operational realities that power the events and service industries.

She is also the founder of Simply Meurer, an artisanal lifestyle brand rooted in craftsmanship, storytelling, and entrepreneurial independence. Through this venture, she continues to apply her expertise in product development, brand positioning, and digital commerce — reinforcing her belief that strong industries are built by capable entrepreneurs supported by sustainable workforce systems.

As a supporter of the Events Education & Workforce Development Federation, Joanne brings an operator’s perspective and a growth-driven mindset to the broader mission of elevating recognition, expanding educational pathways, and strengthening opportunity within the events workforce.

 

Laura Palker

is President and Co-Founder of the Events Education & Workforce Development Federation and CEO of EventProUSA. A visionary leader in the events industry, Laura has dedicated her career to strengthening and advancing the global events workforce through education, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration. She is also the founder of Thrive Enterprises and the creator of the THRIVE Symposium, initiatives designed to empower entrepreneurs, small businesses, and industry professionals to grow with clarity, resilience, and purpose.

During one of the most disruptive periods in modern event history, Laura emerged as a driving force for rebuilding the industry with intention and strategic foresight. Recognizing the profound emotional, financial, and professional toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, she championed initiatives centered on workforce development, mental health awareness, small business stabilization, and meaningful policy advocacy. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief that industries do not simply recover — they evolve when guided by purpose-driven action and collaborative leadership.

A graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and a certified Virtual Events Professional, Laura combines entrepreneurial discipline with forward-thinking innovation. She believes that aligning purpose with passion transforms individual ambition into collective impact. Through service-centered leadership and long-term vision, she continues to inspire professionals across the events ecosystem to reimagine what’s possible when purpose fuels progress and passion powers change.

 

Sallie Colas

brings years of hands-on experience in the trade show and live events industry, where she’s been in the thick of on-site setups, managing logistics, and working closely with vendors and crews to bring big ideas to life. With a background in project management, graphics, and exhibit production, she knows what it takes to turn creative concepts into real-world experiences. Known for her adaptability, eye for detail, and team-first mindset, Sallie is excited to bring her energy and expertise into the next chapter—supporting workforce development and inspiring the next generation of event pros to jump in, get involved, and build something great.

 

Tiffany Rivera

brings over a decade of hospitality and event leadership experience to the table, with a background managing restaurants and overseeing catering operations across Long Island. Her work in the service industry built the foundation for what she delivers today: seamless event strategy, thoughtful guest experiences, and systems that work behind the scenes.

In addition to her work in hospitality, Tiffany served as a Vice President of the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce and is the co-founder of Patchogue Young Professionals, a leadership network designed to support emerging professionals through mentorship, collaboration, and opportunity. Her community involvement includes producing large-scale events such as multi-night street festivals that drew over 20,000 attendees, Shark Tank–style competitions for hopeful students, and entrepreneurial business panels at Patchogue-Medford High School.

Tiffany has frequently spoken to high school hospitality classes, offering mentorship to students exploring careers in the events and culinary industries. Many of these students later connected with her for guidance and hands-on experience, reinforcing her commitment to workforce development and community impact.

Now, through her company Impactful Events + Venues, Tiffany helps business owners, nonprofits, and venue partners plan experiences that do more than “look good.” Her focus is on events that create visibility, drive growth, and strengthen relationships, with strategies rooted in real-life execution.