Earlier this fall, Elmhurst University’s School of Business launched the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement (IPCE), a resource hub that offers opportunities for students to develop professionally and give back to society.
For its inaugural event, IPCE will host Lee Cockerell, former executive vice president of operations for Walt Disney World Resort, on Thursday, Oct. 17. Cockerell will participate in a full day of events for students, small-business owners and members of the business and broader communities.
That evening, Cockerell will give his keynote lecture, “You Can Create Disney Magic Too,” where he will share the secret sauce behind building Disney World into an iconic brand.
Cockerell is one of the most admired leaders in the hospitality and entertainment business, and renowned for his distinguished customer service training. As the senior operating executive for 10 years at one of the most successful, storied brands in the world, Cockerell led a team of 40,000 Disney cast members and was responsible for the operations of 20 resort hotels, four theme parks, two water parks, a shopping and entertainment village, and a sports and recreation complex. He has a lot to say about what it means to be a great leader, how culture affects the customer experience, and the importance of building the right management team.
During his visit to Elmhurst University, Cockerell will conduct a Small Business Accelerator Workshop before giving his keynote address. Tickets are available to both of these events and more:
Small Business Accelerator Workshop
Thursday, Oct. 17, 2:30-4 p.m.
Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst
Admission is $200(Includes admission to the workshop, a VIP reception and the keynote.)
-Keynote: “You Can Create Disney Magic Too”
Thursday, Oct. 17, 7-8:30 p.m.
Frick Center, Founders Lounge, 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst
Admission is $125
Tickets to one or both events are available at bit.ly/4ebwLnP and elmhurst.edu/cultural. Educators and students should email [email protected] for information about discounted tickets. Proceeds benefit the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement and Elmhurst University students.
About IPCE
The Institute for Professional and Community Engagement brings students to the intersection of opportunity and service. IPCE is dedicated to fostering a culture of lifelong learning, community outreach and professional growth among students by offering a range of opportunities for students to develop new skills, gain hands-on experience and collaborate with industry and non-profit professionals.
