Evian III "Vision 2020" Leadership Conference

Dear Friends and Supporters,

In these shifting times of sweeping social change and overriding health concerns it is important to contemplate creative alternatives to gathering together in large numbers which certainly also apply to this Conference.

Let me begin by expressing my sincere thanks to all of you who took an earnest interest in helping and supporting this Conference both in 2018 and again last year.

By way of brief review, this Conference was conceived and planned for November of 2019 however despite every effort being put forth regrettably the event necessitated cancellation within a week of it convening due to a shortfall of required funding and last minute event de-committs from a couple of major event underwriters. These funds were needed specifically to cover the expenses of lodging and meals for the 50 plus students, distinguished educators,and top level keynote speakers who were scheduled to attend the event.

With both great disappointment and also sincere encouragement expressed from the committed scheduled event attendees I had thought of attempting to convert the Conference to a televideo version so it still could take place last year however the runway to organize it was just too short. The hope was to try it again this year however all plans needed to be placed on hold, like so many other Conferences and large public gatherings, due to the Coronavirus pandemic and the current travel restrictions.

So, the plan now is to look forward to re-scheduling this Évian III Student Educational Leadership Conference Conference for this November as a quality major televideo produced event. Although it will be difficult to replicate the same “vibe and feel” of hosting this as an on-location event at the historic Hotel Royal original 1938 Conference site I feel confident the magnitude and impact for these international students can still be achieved. 

As evidenced by the horrifying recent events in the US which have continued to expose the ugly underbelly of systemic racism and AntiSemitism, fighting the issues of intolerance and inequality in the world today could never provide more fertile ground for constructive and meaningful dialogue on these topics. This was the spirit and intent of conducting last year’s event and for continuing this effort in a different format to educate the leaders of tomorrow.

Please know my commitment to making this highly beneficial Conference a reality this year, albeit in an alternative format, is still very strong! With the hope of not letting this vision and all the effort invested by so many “die on the vine” contributions of any size will be greatly appreciated. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly with any questions and Thank you

Wishing everyone health, strength and tolerance for a better world!

Hugh Baver

Director of Évian III Student Educational Leadership Conference