From Foundation to Future: John Daly Inspires at LA Roadshow

What an unforgettable moment in SoCal as we welcomed industry icon John Daly to our Roadshow! A founding member of ILEA and a trailblazer who helped create the Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) designation, John has been shaping the events industry since the 1970s. Known globally as the “Guru of Special Event Design,” his work has spanned the globe—producing extraordinary experiences for Hollywood elites, U.S. Presidents, and cultural institutions like the Smithsonian.

At our LA Roadshow, John took us back to the very beginning—sharing heartfelt stories about launching the organization, founding the Los Angeles chapter, and laying the groundwork for the global creative community we’re proud to be part of today. His reflections were both inspiring and grounding, reminding us that vision, collaboration, and heart have always been at the core of our industry.

Thank you, John, for continuing to light the way and for helping us honor the past as we create the future.