The American Gem Society is planning to host its American Gem Society Conclave® from April 1-4, 2009 in Chicago, with a host of presenters sharing their insights on how to succeed in these challenging economic times. “Our staff, board, and sponsors have been working hard to deliver a fantastic programme in 2009,” said Ruth Batson, executive director and CEO of the American Gem Society™. “Each piece of the programme – from the interactive workshops to the inspirational keynote speakers – has been designed to help Conclave attendees succeed by strengthening and sharpening themselves and their businesses.”

For the first time, graduate-level business school workshops will be held at the Conclave to provide tools for success and profitable – even in a challenging economic climate. The programme is sponsored by Venus Jewel, and will be conducted by award-winning university professors and researchers including: David E. Drehmer, PhD, BCETS – associate professor of Management and Organization at DePaul University’s Charles H. Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. His workshop is entitled “Revisioning an Industry: Harnessing Tools That Work”, will aim at explaining to business owners ways to take advantage of today’s industry shifts. Christopher J. Eckrich, PhD – Eckrich, principal of The Family Business Consulting Group, Inc.® and adjunct faculty member at The University of Notre Dame, will present two seminars. “Family Business Succession: Making Transition Work,” helping business owners navigate the complexities of family succession and transition. “Non-Family Employees in Business: Roles and Opportunities,” will examine ways employees can work effectively in family enterprise. Lisa K. Gundry, PhD – Gundry, an author and professor of Management at De Paul University’s Charles H. Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, and director of The Center for Creativity and Innovation at the university, will present “Creativity and Innovation in Business,” providing tools to generate ideas and increase business-enhancing creativity.

Seth Godin will be the keynote speaker, making a presentation on “The Opportunity of a Lifetime,” during the Conclave Opening Session, which is sponsored by Hearts on Fire. Award-winning celebrity chef Jeff Henderson, star of the Food Network’s “The Chef Jeff Project,” will speak and host a subsequent audience Q-and-A session during the American Gem Society’s Titleholder’s Luncheon. The luncheon, which honors the accomplishments of each new Society titleholder, is sponsored by the Natural Colored Diamond Association (NCDIA). A two-day Supplier Showcase and Fashion Show, is also planned.

The Conclave will also be significant, as it will mark the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Society in 2009, by opening Conclave, to non-member retailers for the first time. A special president’s celebration will also mark the Society’s milestone anniversary. The Conclave will be hosted at the Hyatt Regency Chicago hotel.