Special Events

Join nonprofit leader Alex Sheen as he officially kicks off ASCA 2019 with an inspiring Opening Session presentation on the importance of a promise.

Alex is the founder of because I said I would, the international social movement and nonprofit dedicated to bettering humanity through promises made and kept. Sparked by the loss of his father in 2012, Alex and his organization began sending “promise cards” to anyone who requested them, anywhere in the world, at no cost. because I said I would has now sent nearly 10 million promise cards to more than 153 countries, and Alex’s commitment has inspired millions more around the world.

During this thought-provoking session, you’ll explore the importance of a promise and learn how you can become better at keeping the promises you make to family, friends, patients, colleagues and even yourself. Alex’s message will inspire an increase in goal attainment rates, encourage volunteerism and foster a culture of accountability.

After his presentation, make sure to visit Alex in the Exhibit Hall, where he will be available to take photos, sign copies of his new book (scheduled for release in early 2019) and talk about ways you can get involved.

Learn more about because I said I would

Whether he’s earning an Olympic gold medal for figure skating, fighting his fourth cancer diagnosis or starting a nonprofit, Scott Hamilton is committed to pursuing excellence and living life to the fullest.

Scott first captivated the world with his Olympic gold-medal performances in Sarajevo in 1984, and has remained a voice of authority for figure skating in the US ever since. He’s shared his love and enthusiasm for the sport off the ice as an analyst, performer, producer and best-selling author (including his newest book, Finish First, published February 2018.) Scott also inspires others as a speaker, humanitarian and cancer and pituitary brain tumor survivor.

Scott has been successful in many areas of life, but he didn’t get there by settling for mediocrity. Somehow, many of us have fallen into the belief that competition is bad—that finishing first robs someone else of their chance to shine. What it actually means is we have committed to pursuing excellence.

During this captivating keynote presentation, Scott will inspire you to reject average and go for the win in every part of your life—not for yourself, but to bring the greatest possible good to the world around us.

Learn more about Scott Hamilton