2023 DC Workshop

Join fellow DC area protocol professionals for an afternoon of continued education hosted by the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. This half-day workshop is specifically designed to increase your knowledge of protocol best practices and specific practical and effective ways to communicate confidently. After the workshop continue the conversation at a no-host happy hour (details to follow).

When: September 12, 2023 | 1:30 - 5:15 p.m. ET
Where: Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20004

Rates: PDI-POA Members - $75 | Non-members - $100

Session 1: Representing a Nation: Protocol in the United States Government

What is the role that protocol plays at the US Department of State, US Department of Defense, and US House of Representatives to build trust, strengthen relationships, and facilitate decision-making between world leaders in global matters that affect us all? Hear from US government protocol officers on how they use protocol to develop successful, long-term international cooperative relationships between nations and people, cultures, and communities. Moderated by Leslie Lautenslager. Panelists:

• Jennifer Price, Deputy Director, Protocol, Office of the Secretary of Defense, U.S. Department of Defense 
• Kate Knudson, Chief of Protocol and Director of Interparliamentary Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives
• Peter Velz, Senior Protocol Officer for Visits, Office of the Chief of Protocol, U.S. Department of State

Session 2: Corporate Protocol: What if Your Principal Isn't a President?

Protocol is often thought of in the context of government, but it is important to remember its central role in every type of organization. Think tanks, universities, cultural organizations, and others employ protocol in their daily operations and interactions with stakeholders. Hear from protocol officers at DC-based organizations on how they use protocol to further their missions and priorities. Moderated by Alexander Del Vecchio, Associate Director, Strategic Engagement, Atlantic Council. Panelists:

• Kristi Vanoy, Director of Special Events, Office of the President, American University
• Samantha Peterson, Manager of Special Projects and Senior Advisor to the Director, Office of International Relations, Smithsonian Institution
• Vincente Garcia, Senior Director, Engagement and External Affairs, Atlantic Council