HOLLYWOOD, FL – The GAWDA Annual Convention, which was scheduled to start on September 25th in Phoenix, Arizona, will be moved to a virtual event.
Abydee Butler Moore, GAWDA President, announced “It is with disappointment that we inform you GAWDA will not have an in-person Annual Convention this fall. We are in negotiations with the hotel to postpone our group at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge (Phoenix) until 2024. We thank our members for your feedback and participation on the recent Town Hall Virtual Meeting. Your GAWDA Board of Directors reviewed a summary of the polls collected and unanimously voted ‘no’ to an onsite convention. The safety of our members is paramount. Furthermore, the attendance reduction forecast threatened the quality of the GAWDA experience as well as the event’s financial model.”
“I am inspired by the optimism, fiscal toughness, and high esteem our members hold for our great Association. GAWDA is 75 years strong. This year has taught us to get creative and bring value to our members in new ways. These efforts will continue into 2021 as we plan the best SMC Reunion Convention possible in Nashville! Until then, your GAWDA Executive Committee is collaborating with Headquarters to determine the virtual course of action for this fall.”
If you’d like to share your feedback on the upcoming virtual program feel free to complete our form at www.gawda.org/acfeedback
Information on GAWDA’s Annual Convention virtual event with be shared with membership this summer.
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About GAWDA
Celebrating our 75th year, the Gases and Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA) is dedicated to promoting the safe operation and economic vitality of distributors of industrial gases and related welding equipment supplies. Through its GAWDA Gives Back campaign, association members have donated almost $2 million over the last 16 years to 22 different charitable organizations in 13 communities across the U.S. Since 2013, GAWDA and its members also have provided scholarships totaling $166,000 to 83 young people interested in studies leading to careers in the industry. For more information, visit the association’s website at www.gawda.org