As the saying goes, “Life is what happens when you’re making plans.” Trade show industry veteran Mary Larkin can certainly relate to that phrase. She also established the Women’s Leadership Program for the Society of Independent Show Organizer (SISO). Of course, COVID hit in March, and we had to get into high gear, firstly trying to keep the industry open and then supporting where we could once the events industry had effectively shut down. I also encouraged more women to run for board seats, appointed some women to the board, and did what I could to increase visibility for women’s leadership. Mary with COO, Americas Justin Childs at Nineteen Group’s new U.S. office in Boston.