Susan Elliott

One of the principals of Spotlight Strategies, Susan has been planning events for 30 years. With experience in organizations including the federal department of Foreign Affairs, the National Hockey League, Edmonton Airports and the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada, Susan has organized everything from charitable fundraisers to sporting events, conventions to media launches, corporate annual meetings to golf tournaments, and pretty much everything in between. A stickler for logistics and budgets, Susan believes in a no-surprises policy for the client - or at least, the only surprise should be the huge number of compliments when it’s all over!

Cynthia Williams

Cynthia began her career as an Events & Promotions Coordinator for a major radio station before becoming involved in the Canadian music industry, helping to launch CDs, organize awards shows and an annual televised concert. Her career eventually led to the television industry where she joined Citytv as a Creative Writer/Producer. Cynthia has also organized events for the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. She was Events Chair for the 2006 PC Party convention which included organizing the finale dinner with guest speaker Premier Danny Williams and performances from Shannon Gaye and Tom Jackson. Cynthia brings creative ideas to the team and a strong knowledge of staging, A/V, and how to set the tone for an event using the right lighting and music.

Jason Hatcher

A principal of Spotlight Strategies, Jason has extensive experience in media relations which is often required at events. Many of our clients hold public events that benefit from media or public attention; others hold events that just naturally draw the public eye whether or not it is solicited. Jason can help clients manage the spotlight, and also provides clients with media training upon request to ensure that the organization’s message is conveyed with skill and professionalism by the spokesperson. Jason also has specific experience and expertise in public consultations and in the strategic planning for large public events such as conventions.

Randy Dawson

A principal of Spotlight Strategies, Randy is a specialist in government relations. If your event is intended to get the attention of elected officials, Randy offers valuable advice on how to construct your message and convey it effectively. With over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors, Randy brings a strong knowledge of government protocol and requirements to the Events by Spotlight team.

Ali Abel

Ali joined Spotlight Strategies in 2007 after working for 6 years with Dinos Athletics at the University of Calgary, where she was involved in planning and managing various sporting events for the Dinos, Faculty of Kinesiology, and Olympic Oval. Ali has recently completed the Event Management Certificate from Mount Royal College, and is eager to put her newly acquired knowledge to the test. Ali enjoys being hands-on with any event she is involved in, from website and brochure design, to volunteer management and registration services. And of course, if there is sports involved, she is the first to jump on board!