Thursday, September 25 - Friday, September 26, 2025
Convene One Boston Place
201 Washington St, Boston, MA 02108
Get ready for an unparalleled experience at Elevate 2025, where facility leaders unite to innovate, learn, and collaborate. This immersive two-day event in the heart of Boston will equip you with the tools, connections, and insights to transform your facilities and accelerate your career. Join us to engage in dynamic panels and sessions with top industry leaders and gain actionable takeaways, all while expanding your professional network.
Early Bird Rates Extended—secure your spot by June 7th!
3:00 PM -Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Boston Red Sox Fenway ParkLed by 30-year industry veteran and Director of Facilities, Donnie Gardiner, this custom behind-the-scenes tour will explore the unique challenges of running a historic venue like Fenway Park. On this hour-plus tour, attendees will see many of the ballpark's historical features, but also experience its facility operations, including its numerous sustainable initiatives.
The Elevate event was very impressive. I love the event space, the tour, the individuals in attendance, and the intimacy of the event. It really gave us all a chance to connect and share ideas.
—Brian Martin, Deputy Program Director of Capital & Facilities PMO at Chicago Public Schools
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It was valuable for me to compare and benchmark how others are dealing with challenges.
—Doug Pearson, Associate Vice President of Facilities Planning and Operations at Kent State University
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The speakers were excellent. I was looking to gain greater insight into strategies being used by solid and proven organizations and individuals to help guide us as our organization moves forward. The insight into how McDonald's manages its construction and design was fascinating, as was the GSA presentation.
—Brian Martin, Deputy Program Director of Capital & Facilities PMO at Chicago Public Schools
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I love listening to topics that are affecting my facilities world/day to day.
—Edia Lamboy, Facility Manager/IFMA Chicago Chapter Membership of Blackrock
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The time spent was incredibly valuable - it not only broadened my knowledge, but it broadened my network which I've come to rely on heavily.
—Scott Wollenzien, Senior Director, Facilities Construction and Operations, Northwestern Mutual
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Sessions
Explore a variety of engaging topics led by industry experts. These interactive sessions will offer fresh perspectives and equip you with actionable insights you can apply immediately.
Keynote Session 1:
Boston's First Large Fossil-Fuel-Free Carbon-Neutral Building: A Case Study in Sustainable Innovation
8:45 AM–9:30 AM
Boston University's Duan Family Center for Computing & Data Sciences is a game-changer in sustainable building design and operations. At 19 stories tall and spanning 345,000 square feet, it's one of the largest fossil-fuel-free, carbon-neutral building in Boston.
In this insightful case study session, Dennis Carlberg, Chief Sustainability Officer at Boston University, will discuss the university's Climate Action Plan and share how this LEED Platinum facility is setting new standards for energy efficiency with its use of geothermal ground source heat pumps, heat recovery wheels, active chilled beams, electric backup boilers and chillers, and much more.
SpeakerDennis Carlberg, Chief Sustainability Officer, Boston University
Small Group Discussions
9:45 AM–10:30 AM
Take part in focused, small group discussions on some of the most pressing topics in facilities management today. This collaborative format encourages you to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and share strategies on key challenges and opportunities. Topics include:
Outsourcing: When Does It Make Sense
Capital Planning: Determining Project Priorities
Emerging Tech Opportunities: AI, Autonomous and Automation
Staff Development: Creating Facility Career Trajectories
Advisory Board Panel:
Cultivate the Next Generation of Facility Leaders
10:45 AM–11:45 AM
Facility departments all across the United States are struggling to find qualified candidates to join their teams. A recent survey shows that 84 percent of facility leaders have a vacancy they are trying to fill.
In this competitive labor market, it's getting increasingly difficult to attract workers to the facility management industry. From trades positions to the C-suite, there are vacancies all across departments. This problem will likely only get worse as 30 percent of facility professionals plan on retiring in the next five years.
In this panel discussion, the Elevate Advisory Board will share proven strategies for developing talent for today, but also for the future. Attendees will learn best practices for attracting skilled professionals, fostering leadership potential within their teams, and creating a succession plan that ensures a smooth transition and organizational stability.
PanelistsClarence Carson, State of Illinois Doug Diaz, Clark County Schools Richie Stever, University of Maryland Medical System Frank David Rhodes II, Benchmark Senior Living
Keynote Session 2:
Unlocking Capital: Strategies for Funding Facility Improvements
12:45 PM–1:30 PM
Facility management is typically seen as an expense and the less spent on it, the better. Budgets are never big enough and the lack of money holds up progress on many capital improvements. Hear how Warren County Public Schools, Kentucky's fastest growing school district, is finding the needed resources for its energy initiatives through a process known as "stacking."
With future federal grants in question, facility executives will need extra help in securing funding. Some of the common fund stacking mechanisms that all types of facilities can use to see a project through include local bonds or levies; state matching funds; utility incentives; securing low-interest loans; applying for grants; power purchase agreements; energy savings performance contract (ESPCs); and creativity, which can involve a combination of all the options presented.
As both a Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Chris McIntyre will provide an intriguing perspective on how facility executives can talk to their C-suite about budgets get the needed dollars for both deferred maintenance and future improvements.
SpeakerChris McIntyre, CFO/COO/Treasurer & Construction Supervisor, Warren County Public Schools
Co-SpeakerKelly Mrsic, Managing Director, Public Finance Banker, Baird
Roundtable
Thought Leader Roundtables
1:30 PM–2:30 PM
Dive into dynamic, forward-thinking discussions, discover innovative solutions, and forge lasting relationships with industry-leading suppliers. Experience a relaxed, interactive round-robin format designed to foster collaboration, idea exchange, and actionable insights.
Keynote Session 3:
Sustainability Is a Business Model
2:45 PM–3:30 PM
Sustainability is more than political or environmental—it's about smart business. Strategies like electrification and net zero benefit more than the planet; they deliver long-term savings and measurable ROI.
But making these initiatives work in the long run takes buy-in across an organization, and facility executives who build a culture in which true sustainability is everyone's priority—from the C-suite to the engineering team to occupants—will see lasting success. Larry Morgan talks about setting, and achieving, sustainability benchmarks that are not only measurable, but meaningful as well.
SpeakerLarry Morgan, Senior Facilities Manager, SAP Global Facilities Management, Americas
Speakers
2025 Advisory Board
Clarence Carson
Senior Infrastructure Advisor, State of Illinois
Building Operating Management Facility Influencer
Douglas (Doug) Diaz
Director of Facilities Optimization
Clark County School District
Richie Stever
Vice President of Real Estate and Construction
University of Maryland Medical System
Frank David Rhodes II
Senior Director of CapEx & Facilities
Benchmark Senior Living
Keynote Speakers
Larry Morgan
Senior Facilities Manager
SAP Global Facilities Management, Americas
Chris McIntyre
CFO/COO/Treasurer & Construction Supervisor
Warren County Public Schools
Dennis Carlberg
Chief Sustainability Officer
Boston University
Kelly Mrsic
Managing Director, Public Finance Banker
Baird
Venue
Convene One Boston Place
201 Washington St, Boston, MA 02108
For Elevate 2025, we're hosting our event at Convene at One Boston Place, a sleek, modern venue located in Boston's Financial District. This versatile space is ideal for our intimate conference, offering a blend of flexible meeting rooms and a private outdoor terrace—perfect for productive sessions and networking opportunities.
Our primary meeting room, The Forum, is located on the 2nd floor and features a clean, minimalist design with access to both the Terrace Lounge and Commons. This space offers a comfortable, collaborative environment for all attendees to engage and connect.
Make the Most of Your Stay in Boston
After Elevate 2025, take the opportunity to experience more of Boston—a city rich in history, culture, and world-class dining. With your time in Boston only just beginning, here are a few ways to make the most of your extended stay.
Walk the Freedom Trail — Discover 2.5 miles of iconic historical landmarks.
Explore the Seaport District — Enjoy waterfront dining, upscale bars, and stunning city views.
Relax at Boston Common — Unwind in the oldest public park in the United States.
Dine in the North End — Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine in this historic neighborhood.
Attend a Show or Concert — Experience Boston's vibrant arts scene, from Broadway to local performances.
Take a few extra days to enjoy all that Boston has to offer. Extend your visit and immerse yourself in a city that blends history, modernity, and cultural charm.
Registration
Who Should Attend?
Elevate is designed for senior-level professionals and decision-makers in facilities management. If you're looking to advance your career, stay at the forefront of industry trends, and connect with fellow leaders, this event is for you.
Senior leaders and executives overseeing facilities management
Directors and managers responsible for facility operations
Professionals involved in strategic decision-making for facilities services
Corporate real estate and facilities managers
Leaders in charge of facility planning and construction
Those focused on improving facility efficiency, safety, and sustainability
Education (K-12, Secondary)
Medical and Healthcare
Commercial Real Estate
Government
Industrial and Manufacturing
Hospitality
Past Registrants:
2025 Sponsor:
Registration Includes:
Interactive Agenda: A thoughtfully curated program designed to elevate your insights and expand your professional network.
Fenway Park Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, featuring insights from the Director of Facilities on the unique challenges and operations of managing this historic venue. Reception to follow.
Networking with Industry Leaders: Connect with experts and peers in dedicated sessions for meaningful conversations and collaborations.
Gourmet Breakfast & Lunch: Delicious meals to fuel you throughout the day.
All-Day Coffee, Beverage, & Snack Service: Complimentary coffee, beverages, and snacks available throughout the event.
Closing Reception: Wrap up the event with drinks, networking, and a final opportunity to connect with fellow attendees.
Senior Infrastructure Advisor, State of Illinois
Building Operating Management Facility Influencer
Carson is a well-rounded and resourceful facilities, construction and real estate development professional with a demonstrated history of working in a variety of industries, including commercial real estate, K-12 schools, government, healthcare, higher education and more at both the project and executive levels. He is currently Senior Infrastructure Advisor for the State of Illinois, as well as president of CCRS, a Chicago-based project management and construction consulting firm. He formerly served as the chief facilities officer for Chicago Public Schools.
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Douglas (Doug) Diaz
Director of Facilities Optimization
Clark County School District
Diaz oversees the district's 378 schools and 40 administrative sites, supporting 300,000 students and 42,000 staff members throughout Clark County, Las Vegas. He has held the position since March 2020 and has given more than 25 years to public service in combination with the district and the City of Henderson, including roles as operations manager, construction supervisor and building engineer supervisor. He is a 2025 recipient of the Facility Champion Award.
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Richie Stever
Vice President of Real Estate and Construction
University of Maryland Medical System
Stever oversees facilities operations across 12 hospitals for UMMS. His responsibilities include managing real estate, directing construction projects, handling property management, and spearheading sustainability initiatives. He holds a Master's in Healthcare Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Stever is a Senior member of the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE) and is the past chair of the ASHE Member Tools Committee (MTC).
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Frank David Rhodes II
Senior Director of CapEx & Facilities
Benchmark Senior Living
Rhodes II is an accomplished facilities executive with over 15 years of experience. He is the senior director of capital expenditures and facilities for Benchmar Senior Living. Prior to this he was responsible for engineering and facilities management for 113 hotel properties in the Northeast for Marriott International. Frank has a proven track record of overseeing large-scale property portfolios, developing, and implementing strategic initiatives, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving sustainability within complex environments. He is also active in IFMA, serving as the Immediate Past President of the Boston Chapter.
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Larry Morgan
Senior Facilities Manager
SAP Global Facilities Management, Americas
Mr. Morgan is a dynamic, accomplished corporate asset and service delivery operations professional with over 45 years of progressive, tangible and thought leadership accomplishments with substantial relationships within the corporate and commercial real estate industry.
With his depth and breadth of experience he provides innovative and new approaches in achieving service level improvements across multiple platforms by applying design thinking, proprietary creativity, and having the ability to grasp and apply complex intellectual abstractions. Mr. Morgan is a past IFMA chapter president, past member of the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA) Board of Directors, 2017 IFMA Distinguished Member of the Year and a highly regarded and sought after IFMA global master instructor. He brings a unique insight to the training and education process required to achieve maximum return on human capital investments.
Mr. Morgan is a guest lecturer, presenter, and consultant on critical and current Facilities topics for many organizations and companies globally.
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Chris McIntyre
CFO/COO/Treasurer & Construction Supervisor
Warren County Public Schools
Christopher C. McIntyre, CPA, CSFO, CGMA began his career with Warren County (KY) Public Schools in June 2005. He was promoted to Director of Finance in 2007 and CFO/Treasure in February 2015 whereby he assumed the responsibilities of Director of Finance and CFO/Treasurer along with facilities and construction. As of July 2023, he too absorbed the role of Chief Operations Officer in addition to his other duties.
Prior to his tenure at Warren County Public Schools, McIntyre spent nine years in the banking industry whereby he was the CFO of two federal savings banks and asset liability manager and financial analyst for a five-bank holding company managing assets exceeding $1B.
In addition to his "day job," McIntyre currently serves on the Kentucky State Board of Accountancy (appointed by the Governor), Kentucky School Board Association's Unemployment Program Board of Trustees, and the Warren County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
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Dennis Carlberg
Chief Sustainability Officer
Boston University
Dennis Carlberg is the Chief Sustainability Officer & Associate Vice President for Climate Action at Boston University where he focuses on building the programs necessary for mitigating BU's impacts on climate change, preparing its campuses for climate change, and supporting the integration of sustainability into the curriculum. Prior to joining BU in 2009, Dennis was a principal at Arrowstreet, a Boston-based architectural firm where he focused on sustainable design. He began his career at the Solar Energy Research Institute (now the National Renewable Energy Lab) conducting daylighting research to reduce building energy consumption and improve the indoor environment.
Dennis co-chairs the Boston Green Ribbon Commission Higher Ed Working Group. He is the University's Liaison to the University Climate Change Coalition, a group of 23 of leading R1 research universities committed to accelerating climate action on their campuses, in their communities, and collaboratively at a global scale.
He received his Master of Architecture from MIT and his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from UC Berkeley.
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Kelly Mrsic
Managing Director, Public Finance Banker
Baird
Kelly Mrsic, Managing Director, currently serves as a municipal advisor for Bairds Kentucky and Michigan Public Finance teams. Kelly is responsible for assisting municipal issuers fund various capital projects through debt offerings. Kelly started her career in Public Finance at Hilliard Lyons as a structuring analyst in January 2012. While at Hillard Lyons, Kelly transitioned to a lead advisor in December 2015. Kelly and her Kentucky team joined Baird in April 2019 following Baird's acquisition of Hillard Lyons. In 2024, Kelly was asked to lead Baird's Michigan Public Finance office in addition to covering the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
During her tenure, Kelly has advised on over $10 billion of borrowings, including state-level transactions, higher education issues and local government borrowings issued by cities, counties, school districts, public utilities, and special taxing districts. Kelly and her team specialize in complex financings that require additional attention to detail and more in-depth strategies. As lead advisor, Kelly has demonstrated expertise and leadership for helping clients maximize their revenue available for projects, while managing credit pressures and relationships with the rating agencies.
Kelly resides in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband, Alen, and daughter, Laney.
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