A free pen? How about Las Vegas swag?

A smiling woman sits in front of a pile of black backpacks Students attending the 2017 NCRA Convention & Expo in Las Vegas, Nev., are in for a treat. Firm owners have come together to donate some exciting swag. Doreen Sutton, FAPR, RPR, Chair of NCRA’s Student Committee, has been hard at work collecting donations. Sutton tells Up-to-Speed, “There are all sorts of fun goodies in the bag that I hope the students will have fun with.” (You might even find a pen in there!)

Attending a national convention is often the highlight of a student’s educational career. It provides not only an invaluable learning experience, but also an unparalleled opportunity for networking. “When I was a student,” recalls Sutton, “just the privilege of speaking to a reporter or going to lunch was memorable.” And being able to leave the conference with a souvenir, something tangible, is priceless.

Various-sized boxes on a table, each filled with a different small item such as coozies, lanyards, and chocolates The Student Committee has firm owners to thank for those souvenirs. The committee sent out emails requesting donations, and the response was swift and generous. “The swag items are a wonderful combination and filled up our amazing bags, also donated,” says Sutton. “The bags themselves are awesome and will be great for future uses.” Students lucky enough to attend the conference will head home with fond memories, a few more contacts, and some special souvenirs!