Maya Angelou to Inspire and Challenge Worldwide Spa Industry

Dr. Angelou will engage thousands of hearts and minds with
her celebrated wisdom during the 2007 ISPA Conference & Expo

LEXINGTON, Ky. – World-renowned author, actress and civil-rights activist Dr. Maya Angelou will inspire attendees of the 17th annual International SPA Association Conference & Expo, Nov. 12-15, in Kissimmee, Fla., U.S.A. The Grammy award-winning orator will be the keynote speaker for the final General Session on Thursday, Nov. 15 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Conference Center.

“Dr. Angelou’s messages of courage and confidence complement ISPA’s mission to foster professionalism and growth within the spa community,” said ISPA Chairman Jim Root. “She will certainly inspire attendees to prepare for the future and imagine the possibilities.”

ISPA President Lynne Walker McNees added, “With Jim Collins taking us from good to great on the opening day of the ISPA Conference, and Dr. Angelou wrapping up the week with inspiration and wisdom, attendees can look forward to a well-rounded and memorable experience.”

Dr. Angelou has authored 12 best-selling books and numerous magazine articles earning her Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award nominations. In 1993, Angelou became the second poet in U.S. history to write and recite an original work at the Presidential Inauguration. "On the Pulse of Morning," at Bill Clinton's Presidential Inauguration, was an occasion that gave her wide recognition for which she was awarded a Grammy award for best spoken word. Dr. Angelou was among the first African-American women to hit the bestsellers lists with "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," a chronicle of her life up to age 16.

If you are interested in learning more about the 2007 ISPA Conference & Expo, please visit the ISPA Web site. Registration is open, and the easiest way to register is online.

About the International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization and voice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA’s membership is comprised of nearly 3,000 health and wellness facilities and providers from 75 countries. ISPA advances the spa industry by providing invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting the value of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to foster professionalism and growth.