Leadership expert Lee Cockerell to present ‘You Can Create Disney Magic Too’
Earlier this fall, Elmhurst University’s School of Business launched the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement, a resource hub that offers opportunities for students to develop professionally and give back to society.
For its inaugural event, the institute will host Lee Cockerell, former executive vice president of operations for Walt Disney World Resort, on Thursday, Oct. 17.
Cockerell will participate in a full day of events for students, small-business owners and members of the business and broader communities.
That evening, Cockerell will give his keynote lecture, “You Can Create Disney Magic Too,” where he will share the secret sauce behind building Disney World into an iconic brand.
Lee Cockerell is one of the most admired leaders in the hospitality and entertainment business, and renowned for his distinguished customer service training. As the senior operating executive for 10 years at one of the most successful, storied brands in the world, Cockerell led a team of 40,000 Disney cast members and was responsible for the operations of 20 resort hotels, four theme parks, two water parks, a shopping and entertainment village, and a sports and recreation complex. He has a lot to say about what it means to be a great leader, how culture affects the customer experience, and the importance of building the right management team.
During his visit to Elmhurst University, Cockerell will conduct a Small Business Accelerator Workshop before giving his keynote address. Tickets are available to both of these events and more:
The Small Business Accelerator Workshop will be 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst. Admission is $200 (Includes admission to the workshop, a VIP reception and the keynote.)
The keynote, “You Can Create Disney Magic Too,” will be 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Frick Center Founders Lounge, 190 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst. Admission is $125.
Tickets to one or both events are available at bit.ly/4ebwLnP and elmhurst.edu/cultural.
Educators and students should email kim.schmelzer@elmhurst.edu for information about discounted tickets. Proceeds benefit the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement and Elmhurst University students.
The Institute for Professional and Community Engagement brings students to the intersection of opportunity and service. It is dedicated to fostering a culture of lifelong learning, community outreach and professional growth among students by offering a range of opportunities for students to develop new skills, gain hands-on experience and collaborate with industry and nonprofit professionals.
Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success. Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report.