Friday, February 7, 2020 from 12:30pm to 6:00pm
Westin Portland – Harborview
157 High Street, Portland, Maine
When storms hit, communities are disrupted, and our leadership is tested. These changing times require that we not only brace for the weather ahead but strengthen our resolve to tackle complex issues together. In the decade ahead, Maine’s working waterfronts, its workforce, and economy will be pressured as never before. To promote courageous leadership and act swiftly to mobilize our resources, the 2020 Waypoints Forum will offer an opportunity to address the multitude of challenges facing our coast.
The event also marks the launch of the Island Institute’s forthcoming publication, Waypoints: Connect – Infrastructure Indicators for Maine’s Coast and Islands, an extended look at the physical, economic, and civic infrastructure that connects and shapes our state’s coastal communities.
FEATURED KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Christine Nieves, Co-founder and President, Emerge Puerto Rico
As the co-founder and president of the nonprofit Emerge Puerto Rico, Christine Nieves focuses on rooting cutting-edge climate change leadership and education in community wisdom. Her attention is focused on human consciousness, cognition, evolution, and adaptation to extreme environmental disruptions.
PANEL PREVIEW
With storms—both literal and figurative—as a frame for the 2020 Waypoints Forum, our panel discussion will delve into the role of leadership in navigating the complexities surrounding Portland’s waterfront to explore lessons that are transferable up and down the coast. Panelists to include Portland City Manager Jon P. Jennings and Cliff Island resident and community leader Cheryl Crowley.
LIGHTNING TALKS
Following the panel, three leaders from varied communities will each share their “storm” stories to extend learning on leading through disruptive times.
Presenters will include Emily Lane, international sales manager for Luke’s Lobster and chair of the Island Institute Board of Trustees, and R. Miles Stair, trustee of the Gifft Hill School, St. John, US Virgin Islands.
More details on panelists and the lightning talks coming soon!
FORUM AND COCKTAIL RECEPTION
General admission to the 2020 Waypoints Forum includes the afternoon symposium, refreshments, and a catered networking reception featuring local music. The symposium will take place from 12:30-4:30 p.m. and the reception from 4:30-6:00 p.m.