Kara M. Daniel, NIGP-CPP, CPPB | Published on 9/26/2025
Registration is open for the 2026 MAPP Conference & Reverse Vendor Fair (RVF)!
Click here to register!
Connecting the Dots: Strategic Communication for Successful Procurement
Wednesday, April 8 - Friday, April 10, 2026
Chateau on the Lake, Branson MO
CONFERENCE FEES
- MAPP Members:
- $175.00 (full conference and offered meals)
- Public Procurement Professionals who work for a public entity and are not MAPP Members:
- $215.00 (full conference and offered meals) Includes a MAPP Membership for the remainder of the calendar year.
These rates are for public procurement professionals who work for a public entity ONLY if you are a vendor wanting to register for the Reverse Vendor Fair please visit the following link: https://mappofnigp.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=460340&item_id=2732500&actr=3
Registrations may be paid for via debit/credit card on the MAPP website or by mailing a check to the following address.
MAPP
City of Lebanon
Attn: Jessica Meiners
401 South Jefferson
Lebanon, MO 65536
Scholarships are available to eligible MAPP members see the MAPP website for full details.
Hotel Information
The room rate is $110 plus applicable taxes. In some cases early check-in is available but it should not be expected.
- Please contact the Chateau on the Lake at 888-333-5253. Reference the MAPP conference to receive our discount rate.
Conference registration will close on 3/16/26. Conference cancellations after 3/16/26 will not be refunded.
Tentative Agenda
DAY ONE April 8, 2026
9:00 Registration Opens
11:30 Welcome/Opening
12:00 Gary Stoll Luncheon – OPEN TO ALL ATTENDEES! ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
1:15-3:00 Speed Networking ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
3:00-4:00 Networking “Design a Dream RFP” (Creative Group Activity) ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
4:15 MAPP Chapter Board Meeting
Social Event ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
HOSPITALITY SUITE: LAKE LUGANO AND LAKE LOUISE
DAY TWO, April 9, 2026
7:00-4:30 Registration
7:00 – 8:00 Breakfast ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
8:15 Welcome ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
8:30-10:00 Plenary Session ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Lights, Camera, Procurement: Lessons from Iconic Movie Scenes, Presented by Victor Leamer
Join us for an engaging presentation that connects the world of public procurement with the wisdom of Hollywood! Through iconic movie moments from Apollo 13, Moneyball, The Martian, and more, we’ll explore themes like strategic planning, ethical practices, collaboration, and long-term thinking. These memorable scenes will not only entertain but also inspire fresh perspectives on tackling procurement challenges. Whether you’re building consensus, managing resources, or driving innovation, this session will spark valuable insights and lively discussions. Let’s see how the lessons from the big screen can elevate your procurement strategies!
Break
10:15-11:45 Entity Breakouts
Public Education, Public Utilities, and Special Interest ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Cities ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Counties ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
State ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
MoDot ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
12:00 Awards Luncheon: Each year MAPP gives out chapter awards to our members for Buyer of the Year (Large and Small Entity), Manager of the Year (Large and Small Entity), Agency of the Year, and the Linda D. Windsor Distinguished Service Award. ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
1:30-4:30 Reverse Vendor Fair: What is an RVF? At a Reverse Vendor Fair, the MAPP Conference Attendees will have an assigned table to represent their agency. Vendors will move from table to table to learn how to do business with your agency! It is a good idea to bring your business cards, a fully charged laptop so vendors can register to receive your bid notifications and information on how to do business with your agency. Visit the MAPP website in the Member Area Document Library for examples of what to bring to an RVF. ALL CONFERENCE ATTENDEES WILL HAVE A TABLE ASSIGNED TO THEIR AGENCY AND ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE RVF TO REPRESENT YOUR AGENCY! An empty table with your agency's name on it is not a good representation of your agency. ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Break
6:00 Social Event at Andy B’s
HOSPITALITY SUITE: LAKE LUGANO AND LAKE LOUISE
DAY THREE, April 10, 2026
7:00 – 8:00 Breakfast
8:15 Welcome ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
8:30-10:00 Plenary Session ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Improving the Message: Communicating Procurement through Effective Instruction Presented by Victor Leamer
As procurement professionals, we’re often placed in situations where we need to explain—or even justify—the value of our services to stakeholders. When approaching our colleagues from a place of knowledge, however, we can become strategic partners, transitioning our appearance from being paper pushers to advocates and educators who effectively demonstrate the value of the procurement function. Whether you’re just starting to pursue becoming an effective communicator or seeking new tips on how to hit the next level of your career, join us for this interactive session and learn how you can enhance your skills and hit the needs of your audience no matter what your topic may be.
Break
10:15-11:45 Plenary Session ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
From Challenges to Triumph: The Art of Turning Adversity into Opportunity Presented by Victor Leamer
Are you facing challenges that hinder your professional growth or the success of your organization? What if those obstacles could be transformed into a catalyst for change and innovation?
This session is designed to empower public procurement professionals to identify toxic workplace environments, understand their impact, and learn actionable strategies to navigate them effectively. Drawing inspiration from the legendary resilience of Tina Turner, we’ll use her life story and iconic songs as a lens to explore how adversity can spark personal and professional growth. You’ll gain insights into recognizing toxic behaviors, fostering healthy workplace dynamics, and responding with confidence—whether you're navigating challenges as an individual or leading a team. Through real-world examples and practical tools, this workshop will equip you to: -Identify the signs of a toxic workplace. -Take steps to protect your well-being and professional integrity. -Lead with grace and resilience to transform challenges into opportunities for collaboration and success.
11:45 Closing ROOM/LOCATION: TBD
Keynote Speaker: Victor Leamer
Experienced Buyer with a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. Skilled in procurement training, government purchasing, Requests for Proposals, Protests, and Procurement Ethics.