PLUS Conference
Networking Information
There will be many opportunities for networking at the 2025 PLUS Conference. Explore a variety of curated networking possibilities, including, the connections lounge and engaging social events.
Sunday, November 9
7:00pm – 9:00pm
Location: Fairways Pub - Ritz Golf Club
Pre-Conference Mixer brought to you by Future PLUS - All Attendees Welcome
Join us for an exciting pre-conference mixer designed for the professional liability industry! Come and enjoy an evening of networking, appetizers, complimentary drinks, and lively entertainment to kick off your conference experience in style. Don’t miss out on this fantastic evening of camaraderie and fun! All registered Conference attendees are welcome. See you there!
Monday, November 10
11:00am – 5:00pm
Location: Palazzo Ballroom A-E
Connections Lounge - All Attendees Welcome
Reconnect with colleagues and clients, indulge in coffee and refreshments, enjoy the wellness lounge, and update your professional headshot photo.
1:15pm – 2:15pm
Monterey -Access thru Citron
Conference Kick Off hosted by Future PLUS
Kick off the PLUS Conference and enhance your networking experience by connecting with fellow industry professionals through engaging activities like networking bingo and mini golf. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, this event offers a perfect opportunity to share insights, build relationships, and compete for exciting prizes.
3:00pm - 4:30pm
Location: Coquina Ballroom - South
Winning Under Pressure: Join the Huddle with Nick Saban & Celebrate PLUS Honors
Step inside the huddle with legendary coach Nick Saban as he shares the leadership principles that built championship teams and defined his career. A nine-time National Coach of the Year, Coach Saban is renowned for cultivating grit, resilience, and determination, guiding his teams to victory even in the face of adversity. In this candid conversation moderated by Sarah Abrams, Head of Claims Operations at Baleen Specialty, Coach Saban will explore the art of pivoting, leading through change, and navigating the evolving world of college athletics—from the rise of NIL collectives to the current litigation landscape.
This inspiring session will also spotlight the achievements of industry leaders as we present the PLUS1 Award and the PLUS Founder Award. Together, these honors and insights set the tone for excellence, resilience, and leadership at the heart of the PLUS community.
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Valencia Lawn & Terrace
PLUS Welcome Tailgate Reception
Kick off the PLUS Conference with a tailgate-style celebration under the Florida sky! Mingle with peers while enjoying delicious tailgate favorites, plenty of beverages, and a lively outdoor atmosphere filled with games like football toss, beer pong, cornhole, and ball kick. Capture unforgettable moments with interactive experiences and keep your eyes open…you may even get the chance to hold a baby alligator (yes, really!). This high-energy reception sets the tone for a fun and engaging Conference.
Tuesday, November 11
8:15am – 4:00pm
Palazzo Ballroom A-E
Connections Lounge
Open to all registered attendees
Reconnect with colleagues and clients, indulge in coffee and refreshments, enjoy the wellness lounge, and update your professional headshot photo.
8:15am – 9:15am
Coquina Ballroom - South
Fuel for Leaders: Breakfast, Emerging Leaders Awards, & Insights with Tony Chimera
Start your day with inspiration, recognition, and meaningful conversation. At this special breakfast session, attendees will celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Emerging Leader Awards, spotlights rising professionals who are shaping the future of the industry. Following the awards, hear from Tony Chimera, CAO at Westfield Specialty, whose 30+ years in human resources and specialty insurance have shaped his people-first philosophy on leadership and growth. In this dynamic 30-minute session, Tony will explore strategic insights into cultivating a robust pipeline of future leaders. Participants will gain an understanding of the core policies and practices that are essential for attracting top talent and retaining high-potential individuals in a competitive industry landscape. Come hungry for both breakfast and ideas to fuel your own professional journey.
11:45am - 1:30pm
Coquina Ballroom - South
PLUS Foundation Luncheon - Empowered to Lead: Women Coaching at the Highest Level
Join PLUS and the PLUS Foundation for an inspiring afternoon of recognition and transformation. We’ll honor this year’s Excellence in Diversity Award recipient, then hear from trailblazing sports executive Samantha Rapoport.
In Empowered to Lead: Women Coaching at the Highest Level, Sam shares her journey advancing equity, inspiring transformation, and leading with purpose. With candor and energy, she offers lessons in resilience, bold leadership, and culture change, along with practical takeaways for your career and community.
This isn’t just a luncheon, it’s a launchpad for leadership and impact. Don’t miss it!
5:00pm - 6:30pm
Palazzo Ballroom A-E
PLUS Happy Hour
Mix and mingle with colleagues and peers from across the industry in a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere—perfect for making new connections, recharging, and toasting to the days ahead. Unwind with crafted cocktails and tasty nibbles, while you connect and celebrate in an exclusive evening designed just for you. Explore your personal style with a custom Pantone color analysis, take home a unique keepsake from our creative caricaturists, and enjoy the soothing sounds of live acoustic music.
Wednesday, November 12
8:00am - 8:45am
Coquina Ballroom - South
Leadership Transition Breakfast
Start the final day of the Conference with a celebratory breakfast and meaningful connections. Join fellow attendees as we honor incumbent PLUS President Jackie Waters and welcome incoming President La’Vonda McLean, as they continue the annual tradition of the Leadership Gavel Exchange. This special gathering is the perfect opportunity to network, reflect on the year’s achievements, and celebrate the leadership shaping the future of PLUS.
8:00am - 11:00am
Palazzo Ballroom A-E
Connections Lounge
Open to all registered attendees
Reconnect with colleagues and clients, indulge in coffee, refreshments, and snacks.
11:15am - 12:15pm
Forecasting the Future: Global Risks with Andrew Busch
Wrap up the PLUS Conference with forward-looking insights from economic futurist, and former U.S. Government CMIO, Andrew Busch. In this dynamic keynote, Andrew will explore the current state of the global economy, emerging risks, and the forces from AI disruption to international trade policy that are reshaping markets. An expert on translating complexity into actionable strategies, he’ll provide practical guidance to help business leaders anticipate change, prepare for growth, and navigate uncertainty over the next decade. Ending the Conference with energy, clarity, and vision, this session equips you to lead confidently into the future.
