40th Anniversary Safety+ Symposium Kicks Off with Keynote, Celebration, and Golf Tournament
The opening highlights of 2024 edition include an inspiring keynote, a lively exhibit hall celebration, and a successful scholarship golf tournament.
- By David Kopf
- Aug 27, 2024
The Voluntary Protection Programs Participants’ Association (VPPPA) commenced its 40th anniversary Safety+ Symposium this week, welcoming safety professionals from various industries to the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, CO. The 2024 event, running this week from August 25 to August 28, features a packed agenda of keynote speakers, educational sessions, and networking opportunities designed to elevate safety practices in workplaces nationwide.
The opening day festivities on Sunday, August 25, began with the Opening Night Celebration, which took place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the exhibit hall. Attendees connected with more than 150 exhibitors offering the latest in safety innovations, from PPE to ergonomic solutions. Over canapés and conversation, participants had the opportunity to rekindle old friendships and forge new ones. This year’s exhibit hall also featured a golf simulator, letting attendees relax get into the swing of the networking event.
Monday morning saw a powerful keynote from Ben Nemtin, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and star of MTV’s "The Buried Life." Nemtin’s opening keynote, delivered to a packed audience from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., focused on overcoming challenges and pursuing one’s dreams, a message that resonated deeply with the safety professionals in attendance. Nemtin shared his personal story of battling depression and how creating a bucket list inspired him to recover. His talk highlighted the importance of helping others while striving for self-improvement, leaving the audience inspired and energized.
Earlier on Sunday, the Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament teed off at 8 a.m. at Green Valley Ranch Golf Club. With 41 participants and contributions from sponsors like MyTERA, Zappos at Work, and Westex by Milliken, the event raised over $5,000 for VPPPA’s scholarship fund. This year’s tournament was marked by friendly competition, perfect weather, and a breathtaking Rocky Mountain sunrise.
As the 40th anniversary Safety+ Symposium continues, attendees can look forward to more sessions, networking, and opportunities to advance their safety knowledge and practices.
About the Author
David Kopf is the publisher and executive editor of Occupational Health & Safety magazine.