Past Events
Member Roundtable
Lunch and conversation with your fellow AWC Detroit members from the convenience of your desk on November 15!
“Mini Tutorial – Creating Instagram video reels and understanding analytics.”
Member only. No cost
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Pre-Holiday Mixer for a Cause!
Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Location: Zeoli’s Modern Italian
Address: 110 E. 14 Mile Rd., Clawson, MI 48017
Details: This year, AWC Detroit is supporting the girls and women at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. Appetizers will be provided. Cash bar. This is a member-only event.
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Date: October 19, 2024
Location: Lawrence Technological University Library – Buell Bldg. – #5 – Rm M113
AI has impacted every aspect of our lives, and we find that our audiences are curious and cautious about this relatively new tool that promises higher productivity, an easier way to knock off mundane tasks and outlines, and countless other benefits, even at the risk of sacrificing some accuracy, authenticity, and privacy.
An exploration to understand and utilize AI from four perspectives:
- Science behind AI in communications
- Ethical use of AI in communications
- Legal use of AI in communications including copyright laws
- Preparing students to be future communicators in an AI world
About Our Moderator:
Renée Ahee – Owner of In Other Words
Our moderator, Renée Ahee is owner of In Other Words, where words, whether written or oral, video or print, motivate, inspire and change behavior. Renée has been in the world of public relations and marketing her entire career, both on the corporate side of PR, Marketing and Investor Relations, and running nonprofits.
About Our Presenters:
Dr. Laura McCann – Associate Professor of Writing Studies
Dr. Laura McCann is Associate Professor of Writing Studies in the Humanities, Social Studies, and Communication Department in the College of Arts and Sciences, and Director of Horldt Writing Center. Read more about Laura’s background.
Dr. Paula Lauren – Associate Professor of Computer Science
Dr. Paula Lauren is Associate Professor of Computer Science in the Mathematics and Computer Science Department in the College of Arts and Sciences. Read more about Paula’s background.
Cynthia Simpson – Executive Director of Library Services
Cynthia Simpson is a professionally certified librarian who has traveled, worked and studied abroad in over 20 countries across three continents. Extensive communication and managerial skills with substantial experience in education, youth, adult and academic library services. Particularly fervent about mentoring LTU students about all aspects of AI as an important tool for learning and communicating.
Jennifer Dukarski –
Jennifer Dukarski is a Certified Information Privacy Professional concentrating on the U.S. Private Sector privacy and data protection law (CIPP/US) at the law firm of Butzel, and a shareholder in Butzel’s Ann Arbor office. Read more about Jennifer’s background.
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Beyond the Headlines: Communicating Medical Innovation to the Media
Protecting patient privacy through transparency and trust.
Date: September 26, 2024
Location: Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, Demonstration Kitchen to the right of the Lobby
Join us for an exploration of external communications in the healthcare sector. Our expert panel, led by a skilled moderator, will delve into the art of crafting compelling media pitches across a variety of topics, including groundbreaking technologies and research, facility expansions, leadership announcements, patient success stories, and the latest in clinical trials and studies. Additionally, we will unravel the complexities of navigating HIPAA regulations, ensuring you master the essentials of patient privacy, consent protocols, and media rules regarding photos and videos. By attending this program, you’ll gain valuable insights and strategies to sharpen your skills and stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare communication!
About Our Moderator:
Patricia Anstett- Journalist, Author, Medical Writer
Pat Anstett, an experienced, Detroit-based journalist and author who was the medical writer at The Detroit Free Press for 25 years. A three-time Pulitzer Prize nominee, Pat’s 40-year journalism career includes work in three major cities – Detroit, Chicago and Washington D.C. – where she worked as a reporter and editor at the Detroit Free Press, the Detroit News, the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Today, and Congressional Quarterly, among others.
About Our Presenters:
Melissa Thrasher, M.A. – Communications leader, DE&I Ambassador, Event Producer, Podcaster
Melissa Thrasher is executive director of media relations and social media for Eastern Michigan University. She previously served as communications director for the Southeast Michigan American Heart Association, where she oversaw media relations for nationally recognized campaigns, including Go Red For Women and Power to End Stroke. Thrasher is credited for launching multicultural awareness campaigns, securing robust media sponsorships, coordinating statewide Twitter Chats, and launching the “Art for Heart” program.
Colette Stimmell- Strategic Communications, Public Relations, Media Relations
Colette Stimmell is an award-winning communications and public relations executive who served as VP of Communications for Beaumont Health (now Corewell Health), Michigan’s largest health system. With more than 40 years of PR experience, including 30 at Beaumont, she specializes in the development and execution of complex, multi-audience communication plans, messaging and strategies for crisis communication or transformational initiatives. Colette led media relations efforts that earned hundreds of thousands of local and national news placements for Beaumont, while managing its brand and reputation during crisis situations.
Meghan O’Brien – Corporate Affairs, Issues Management & Public Relations
Meghan O’Brien, with more than 20 years of experience, is director of corporate affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, where she leads issues management and public relations for the organization. She joined BCBSM in 2012, previously as a PR specialist, and PR and social media manager. Meghan has a proven track record of developing and driving strategic communications programs that produce measurable results. Prior to joining Blue Cross, Meghan launched her communications career in Los Angeles, where she specialized in public relations for the entertainment industry.
Tammy Stables Battaglia, APR – Healthcare Communications & Media Relations Manager
Tammy Stables Battaglia has spent the last 10 years in healthcare communications, working at Henry Ford Health System, Corewell Health and, currently, Detroit Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Michigan as Communications & Media Relations Manager. Prior, she was a reporter for the Detroit Free Press. She also worked in the Cleveland market as a journalist, as well as a content producer for the Cleveland Clinic.
Stephanie Frahm, MBA – Communications Manager, Event Producer & Healthcare Marketing Professional
Stephanie Frahm is Manager of Communications – Operations for Henry Ford Health, where she is responsible for supporting the development and implementation of system-wide communications operations and managing internal communications platforms. She also supports communications-led events – focused on building awareness and engagement, raising executive visibility, and implementing innovative solutions.
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The Civility Project
Can We Get Back to Good? How to Foster Mutual Respect
“It never occurred to us that we couldn’t be friends because we disagree,” says Nolan. “We’ve never avoided conversation, we never pulled punches, we sort of enjoyed the mix-up.” Americans used to engage in civil conversation with people of opposing viewpoints – enjoying the banter and debate.
Today, many Americans believe they can’t be friends with people with opposing views. Even in a heated argument, a civil approach has a much better chance of resulting in negotiation rather than a duel at noon.
The Civility Project seeks to bring people together for healthy disagreement, personal interactions and constructive conversations. In live and virtual programs, participants become familiar with the pillars of civility, engage in enlightening discussion and learn why the listening is important.
“If we reach the point where we dehumanize the people we disagree with, anything is possible,” Stephen says. “We must step back and learn to talk to people as people, rather than political adversaries.”
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AWC Workshop: Fire Up Your Communication Skills
Attend this results-oriented workshop focused on helping you develop a persuasive communication style.
Event Details
Enhance Your Influence: Communicate with Precision for Maximum Persuasion
Saturday, April 6, 2024
8 am – 3 pm
(Networking & continental breakfast 8-9 a.m.; workshop starts at 9 a.m. Lunch provided between morning & afternoon sessions.)
Venue: HUBWorX360
Address: 360 E. Maple Road, Troy
COST: We are providing this workshop free for our members as a Member Benefit, and at a substantial discount to our audience of supporters. This day-long workshop facilitated by international communications coach Barbara Boldt is valued at $495 per person. Non-member fee $50. Student fee $15.
Event Registration Deadline: 5 p.m. Thursday, April 4, 2024
Event Contact: Laura Oliveto at: info@womcomdetroit.org
Everyone can talk.
Not everyone can communicate.
It is often said that we all sell every day. No matter our profession, our role in an organization, or our role in life, very often we need to persuade people to act. It might be our team members, upper management, or our kids!
It is also said that the only constant in life is change. In our fast-paced, ever more digitized world, getting and keeping people’s attention is an increasing challenge. Even people for whom communication is their business can struggle to hold an audience’s attention. Compelling people to act requires increasingly sophisticated communication techniques.
In this day-long, two-part workshop, participants will explore and experience the unique communication technique called “pitching.” A pitch is a persuasive form of communication that, when crafted and delivered well, can capture and maintain the attention of listeners and motivate them to act.
Presented and moderated by Barbara A. Boldt, communication coach, trainer and author.
About Our Presenter
Barbara Boldt – Transformational Facilitator, Speaker & Coach
For over two decades, Barbara has empowered introverted and non-native English-speaking tech professionals to develop the persuasive communication skills they need to advance their careers and create greater impact.
Arter living and working in Europe for 20+ years, helping professionals from 35+ countries to deliver effective business presentations, Barbara has developed a unique ability to identify why a message is not connecting. Whether due to cultural differences, language challenges fore delivery flaws, she helps her clients transform how they communicate so they can get heard and be recognized for their contributions.
Drawing from her international experience, Barbara delivers high impact, engaging, workshops that give her audiences the tools they need to overcome their communication challenges and present their big ideas with confidence.
Barbara holds an M.A. in International Relations from The University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, and a B.A. in Nutrition from the University of Iowa. She is CEO of Boldt Global and resides in Southeast Michigan, USA, with her partner, Robert.
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AWC Pop-Up event: Eliminate What You Tolerate
February 28 at 5:30 pm. Location provided upon registration.
“Where attention goes, energy flows.” Your energy is a form of currency. Becoming aware of how you spend it is the first step to having more of it.
At this open-to-the-public event, registration includes a light dinner, moderated discussion, and a chance to receive a copy of Colleen Kilpatrick’s book “Eliminate What You Tolerate: A simple, proven way to regain focus, increase productivity, and liberate your energy for the more important things in life.”
AWC Detroit member and PR professional Karen Couf-Cohen will interview author Colleen Kilpatrick as we delve into the concept of “tolerations.” Tolerations are things we allow in our lives, not because we need them, but because we choose to tolerate them, as opposed to simply eliminating them.
Discover a profound technique to help identify how you are spending your precious energy, and how to create more of it.
About Our Presenters
Colleen Kilpatrick, Author
Colleen Kilpatrick is a multi-passionate business owner, creative collaborator and author of the transformational book, “Eliminate What You Tolerate: A simple, proven way to regain focus, increase productivity, and liberate your energy for the more important things in life.”
The creator and driving force behind Business Brainstorming Sessions and Toleration Elimination Virtual Parties as well as a range of other business and personal development programs, Colleen is known for her exceptional ability to break down complex concepts into practical, step-by-step solutions that can be understood and implemented with ease.
With her extensive experience in marketing, business innovation, personal development and spiritual teachings, Colleen brings a unique perspective to her work with entrepreneurs inspiring them to unlock their full potential and courageously share their best gifts with the world.
Read Colleens Article on Eliminating Tolerations
Karen Couf-Cohen, Event Moderator
Karen Couf Cohen Public Relations is a small boutique style PR and communications consultancy providing writing, marketing, and public relations services to healthcare institutions, municipalities, independent businesses and faith-based organizations.
Karen sees possibilities where others see roadblocks and believes in asking the hard questions. For instance, in 2001, her hometown, the Village of Franklin, was a community without a soul. She proposed a music in the parks program called Music on the Green to city council, and once approved, she developed a non-profit 501C3 with fundraising, promotions, public relations, writing press releases and sponsorship proposals to fund the initiative, since the community funding was limited.
Fast forward 20 years and the program is still going strong, spurring a residual benefit – the community now has “movies on the green,” a farmer’s market on the green and a variety of other programs that give Franklin a sense of place and community connection.
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AWC Pop-Up event: Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design & Lunch at the DIA
February 11 at 1:30 pm. We’ll meet at the Wright Museum bookstore.
Come see the Ruth E. Carter collection of clothes on mannequins that were seen on television and in movies from Amistad to Selma II to Black Panther and Wakanda Forever. Carter was the first African-American to win and be nominated for best costume design, winning multiple Academy Awards. Stroll around the entire second floor to see a video she narrates on clothing design, a display of clothes from every movie she helped design and a look at fabrics and colors. Clothes, indeed, tell stories that endure in the memory for years to come.
Admission to the Wright Museum is free this day. But you can make a donation if you wish. Wear something colorful – a costume of sorts – to honor this talented designer.
If you’d like, meet us at Café DIA on the first floor at 11:30 before the tour. Free Detroit Institute of Arts admission for Wayne, Oakland and Macomb County residents with your driver’s license. Fresh selections, including vegetarian options.
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AWC Pop-Up event: Dinner & Discussion
Let’s talk about the power of investigative reporting.
We invite you view the film “She Said” prior to attending the event: Keep Digging! The Female Investigative Reporters Who Took Down Weinstein.
Enjoy a light dinner followed by a moderated group discussion about the investigative reporting process and the power of investigative journalism.
“She Said” chronicles the work of New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor who broke a story that shattered decades of silence around the subject of sexual assault in Hollywood and impelled a shift in American culture that continues to this day.
PROGRAM DETAILS
~ Prior to attending the event, watch “She Said” on a streaming channel. The film is available on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Redbox, YouTube, or Vudu. Local libraries also offer DVDs of the film.
Half the proceeds from this event will be donated to LACASA Center, a nonprofit organization in Southeastern Michigan that provides critical services at no charge for victims and survivors of sexual violence. If you are unable to attend this event, but would like to make a donation to LACASA, you can do so on our event ticketing page when you click the Get Tickets button.
Watch the Trailer: She Said
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Join us for an interactive evening
We invite you to enjoy light dinner fare, networking, and a presentation from the experts at Butzel Long on the legal implications and challenges of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Wednesday, November 1 from 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Eventbrite URL: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/731586634317?aff=oddtdtcreator
Join us as AWC Detroit explores the ways in which communication fosters cultural harmony and respect, with experts from education, city government and public relations. Our discussion will provide the audience with actionable tools to use in personal, professional and social spaces for more meaningful and constructive conversations about diversity, equity and inclusion.
During this program, we will:
- Review AI tools and capabilities at a high level
- Look at applications specific to communicators
- Explore the power & opportunities: data analysis, privacy & branding
- Identify and avoid potential pitfalls: social media, freelance agreements, and copyrights
- Discuss current, high-profile, legal actions in the news as they relate to our audience
Where: Butzel Long Office in the Columbia Center – Lower level conference room
201 W. Big Beaver, Troy, MI 48084
Agenda: 5:30-6:15 Networking and light dinner
6:30-8:00 Program
Tickets: AWC Detroit members In Person: $25.00 Virtual: $20.00
Future AWC Detroit members $35.00 $30.00
Students and Recent Grads $15.00 $10.00
If you work in one of these realms, this program is for you!
- Corporate Communications
- Journalism
- PR
- Sales + Marketing
- Freelance Contractor
- Entrepreneur
PROGRAM SYNOPSIS
It is our job as communicators to understand the impact of new technologies on our industry. Unlike any tech tool that has emerged in recent years, artificial intelligence dominates the conversation.
To help us understand and manage AI without getting into hot water, AWC Detroit will explore the legal aspects with our partner experts – Jennifer Dukarski and Erin Malone – at Butzel Long, who previously helped us determine best practices for social media from a legal perspective.
How will we meet the legal aspects of AI, especially in AI-derived pitching, press releases and content generation? Join us for a highly interactive dialogue with the experts.
About Our Presenters
Jennifer Dukarski, CIPP/US
Attorney & Shareholder, Butzel Long
Jennifer Dukarski is a self-professed “geek lawyer,” whose practice is focused at the intersection of technology and communications with an emphasis on the legal issues arising from emerging and disruptive innovation: digital media and content, vehicle safety, connected and autonomous cars, shared mobility, infotainment, data privacy, and security.
Dukarski was named one of the 30 Women Defining the Future of Technology in January 2020 by Warner Communications for innovative thoughts and contributions to the tech industry. An admitted “recovering engineer,” Dukarski held multiple high-level quality management and engineering positions with Tier 1 suppliers. Working as a design engineer, Dukarski received multiple Record of Invention Awards for contributions to patents and trade secrets. She is a Six Sigma Certified Master Black Belt.
Erin Malone, J.D.
Associate, Butzel Long
A former photojournalist for broadcast television, Erin Malone decided to take the leap, change careers, and go to law school. She graduated from University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, summa cum laude, in 2022.
While attending law school, Malone had the honor of serving as the Editor-in-Chief of the Law Review. In her second and third year of law school, she also worked as a teaching assistant for Civil Procedure and Torts. Additionally, she is a member of the Frank Murphy Honor Society.
Originally from Northern Michigan, Malone admits that her “passions still remain” from her former career including great storytelling, procuring meaningful relationships within the community, and flying drones as an FAA certified drone pilot.
Malone has a B.A. in English, with a B.A. program specialization in Society and the Environment, from the University of Michigan.
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Cultural Connection: Mindful Communication in a Diverse World
Tuesday, September 19 from 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Eventbrite URL: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/698081429347
Join us as AWC Detroit explores the ways in which communication fosters cultural harmony and respect, with experts from education, city government and public relations. Our discussion will provide the audience with actionable tools to use in personal, professional and social spaces for more meaningful and constructive conversations about diversity, equity and inclusion.
You will learn:
- The mindset that helps us communicate effectively and thoughtfully
- How to monitor communications for IDEA – inclusivity, diversity, equity and access
- Words and phrases that might inadvertently give the wrong impression
- How to recognize cultural cues that can elevate your communication
- The importance of teaching cultural respect early
- How to walk the walk: why we should, and how we can reflect inclusivity in our daily lives
Where: Arab American National Museum – Community Courtyard
13624 Michigan Ave., Dearborn MI 48126
Agenda: 5:30-6:30 Networking and light refreshments
6:30-7:45 Panel discussion
7:45-8:00 Q&A
8:00 pm Coffee at Haraz (optional)
Tickets: AWC Detroit members: $25.00
Future AWC Detroit members: $35.00
Students and Recent Grads: $15.00
Moderator
Siham Awada Jafaar is president and CEO of 3D Consulting and Communications which conducts diversity training for corporations, law enforcement, government and healthcare agencies and educational institutions. Ms. Jafaar is a certified mediator and is currently president of the Wayne County Dispute Resolution Center and chairperson of its Advisory Board. Appointed by Governor Whitmer in 2020 to the Judicial Tenure Commission, she was reappointed in 2023 for a second term. Jafaar also has been appointed to the Michigan Supreme Court to serve on the DEI Commission for the Judiciary, with a term ending in December 2025.
PANELISTS
David Mustonen is in his 24th year with the Dearborn Public Schools where he has transformed communication in the 20,000-student district from one that relied upon printed media to one driven by text messages, e-mail, the latest app, and an ever changing social media landscape. He and his team support the communication efforts of all Dearborn schools and overall messaging for the District. David’s early career includes broadcast television production, including award-winning documentaries. Also recognized for outstanding print publications, he has directed efforts to pass major bond and millage renewal ballot proposals in Dearborn. David has served on many district committees; he facilitates Board Policy Committee meetings and serves on the Board/City Relations Committee.
Karen Majewski received her Ph.D. in American Culture from U of M, concentrating on the study of immigration and ethnicity. She is the former executive director of the Polish American Historical Association and has lectured and published extensively. Her award-winning book, Traitors & True Poles: Narrating a Polish American Identity, 1880-1939 was published in 2003, and her latest work has focused on women’s issues in American Polonia. Her work on U of M’s Chene Street History Project helped document a Detroit multi-ethnic working class neighborhood. From 2002-2021, Majewski concentrated on community service, serving on Hamtramck’s Historical Commission, as its City Council President, and for 16 years, as the City’s Mayor.
Renée Ahee founded In Other Words, LLC, in 1999, a public relations and marketing firm whose clients have included for-profit and non-profit such organizations as Marygrove College, Ford Motor Credit Company, General Motors, Lawrence Technological University, Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Council of Asian Pacific Americans and the National American Arab Nurses Association (NAANA), where she is currently board president.
Renée has served as CEO of the National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA) and the Arab American Women’s Business Council, a non-profit organization she co-founded that provides education, professional development, and networking opportunities. She holds a BA degree in journalism from Marygrove College and an MSF degree in corporate finance with honors from Walsh College. She is a graduate of Leadership Detroit XXVI.
Renée has received Marygrove’s Distinguished Alumni Award, the NAAMA President’s Award, the POWER 25 Women in Detroit Award by Walker’s Legacy and was named one of the Top Ten Michigan Businesswomen (Diversity Champion) from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Greater Detroit Chapter.
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AWC Detroit Riverwalk Get-Together
Sunday, July 30 at 10:30 a.m.
Join us for one of our most popular events and enjoy the #1 Riverwalk in the U.S. Bring your family or a friend!
We’re going to tour the #1 Riverwalk in the U.S. with a walk and end up with a get-together.
It was a big hit last year and we can’t wait to do it again! We will gather at 10:30 a.m.
Check your email for details.
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AWC Detroit Summer Get Together
Wednesday, June 21 from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Join us for our next member get together!
- Appetizers will be provided, cash bar
- An opportunity to network and hear the latest AWC Detroit updates
Take the Mystery out of Multigenerational Communication
Tuesday, May 23 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
AWC Detroit and new sponsor Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan proudly present an evening of networking and professional development, including a stimulating panel discussion on multi-generational communication. Meet our new BCBSM members, connect with your peers, and join the conversation!
You can expect to learn more about:
- Ways to identify intergenerational commonalities and common touch points
- How to use empathy and understanding to support women across generations
- Techniques to overcome the tendency to compete, building women up instead
- Methods to recognize and effectively use non-verbal interpersonal communication
- How storytelling can help you excel in all aspects of your life and career
- Approaches by leadership that set the tone for intergenerational respect
- The importance and significance of intergenerational support groups
Our Moderator
AWC Detroit board member Ashley M. Williams, President and CEO of RIZZARR, will lead a respected and knowledgeable panel of experts in inter-generational interaction.
Ashley is the preeminent Millennial and Gen Z content marketing strategist, consultant, and global speaker for brands that want to reach younger generations.
RIZZARR is a tech-enabled content marketplace where brands are able to find and work with Millennial and Gen Z content creators worldwide – particularly nano-influencers and micro-influencers.
Featured Panelists:
Carol Cooper, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Mass Communication Department, Rochester University
Karly Hurley, Brand Journalism Manager, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Kerrie M. Mitchell, President and CEO of the Detroit Public Schools Foundation
Jimi Okubanjo, Producer, Arise Firebird Feature Film (formerly Vanishing Women)
Date, Time and Location:
Tuesday, May 23, 2023 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan – Detroit, MI
Planned agenda:
5:00-6:00 pm – Networking, heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Panel discussion / Q & A
Free parking is available in adjacent parking structure. Directions will be provided to all registrants.
Sincere thanks to our AWC Detroit sponsor!
