MER Conference Speakers' Generosity Benefits Needy Families
All 46 MER Conference speakers generously waived their appreciation gifts so that thousands might enjoy a warm meal. On behalf of the speakers, Cohasset Associates provided the Chicago Food Depository with a donation to provide 6,000 meals to those in need.
In past years, Cohasset Associates – architects of the National Conference on Managing Electronic Records (MER Conference) – has provided conference speakers with gifts in appreciation of their contributions to the conference’s success. In light of the current economic conditions and in a time of need for so many, Cohasset, this year, expressed its gratitude by making a special contribution on behalf of all the MER ’09 speakers and exhibitors to the Chicago Food Depository, which distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 600 food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters to 500,000 adults and children every year.
"In a time where jobs and homes are being lost at an unprecedented rate, the contribution to the Food Repository is simply the right thing to do, said Cohasset President, Bob Williams. "We thank all MER Conference speakers for relinquishing their gifts. That small sacrifice on their part has helped feed many who are struggling in these difficult times. We can all feel good in knowing 6,000 people received a good meal through this small gesture."
In a further attempt to assist those affected by the current economic climate, Cohasset has also established a MER Conference Scholarship for records management professionals who have fallen victim to corporate downsizing. These scholarships enable those in employment transition to attend the MER Conference free of charge to enhance their professional skills and to network with colleagues and exhibitors.
"Despite the economic downturn, we believe people are an organization’s greatest asset," noted Mr. Williams. "We feel the scholarships for professionals in employment transition are not only helpful to those individuals, but also in line with this year’s special theme: "how to make meaningful improvements for little or no cost."
Approximately 400 records management and eDiscovery professionals attended MER '09, and experienced what many described as the best content in the conference’s 16-year history. "The keynote addresses, in particular, were of the highest quality I’ve ever seen," said Mr. Williams, referring to presentations featuring Magistrate Judge John Facciola and noted author, professor and NPR commentator David Weinberger.
Those who were unable to attend the MER Conference in person are able to view the sessions for a minimal cost through StreaMER [now RIM On Demand] at RIM Education. This year’s sessions will be posted in mid-June.
Len Langevin is part of the Cohasset technical team which builds, manages and maintains Cohasset’s web initiatives: RIMeducation.com, Cohasset.com and MERconference.com. As part of the Cohasset team, Len performs a number of "behind the scenes" duties, including: writing, photography and podcast recording.
