The NACE Cup: Champions of Connection
Written by LeeAnne Rogers, DFW NACE Communications Committee
June’s “The NACE Cup: Champions of Connection” event at The Perot Museum of Nature and Science was a night of networking, education, and culinary inspiration!
The intersection of sports and science was apparent from the moment we stepped into the museum. After being greeted at valet by LAZ Parking, our sporty chic guests explored the Soccer: More Than a Game exhibit during cocktail hour. We stepped into the science behind the world’s most beloved game and experienced soccer in a whole new way. Outside the exhibit, we enjoyed passed appetizers from Wolfgang Puck catering, delicious coffee from Magnify Coffee Catering, and took themed photos in the booth from Harry Photo. The beautiful lounge seating was provided by Event Works.
A Night Centered Around “The intersection of Sports, Science, and Design”
One of the main speakers, Mike Spiewak, Vice President of Exhibits at Perot Museum of Nature and Science, walked us through the conception, design, and production of the new Soccer: More Than a Game exhibit. The education was so relative to our industry, and left guests feeling inspired that the
events we design can be more than just beautiful! Every detail of the exhibit tied back to the color story, and helped guests see that sports is more than being an athlete. It’s a combination of science, psychology, design, medicine, and so much more!
Dr. Ron Tykoski, Vice President of Science and Curator of Vertebrae Paleontology at Perot Museum of Nature and Science also blew us away with his ROARING talk on dinosaurs. The Perot recently discovered a new dinosaur species, Tylosaurus Rex! Dr. Ron blew us away with stories from the field with millions of years of paleontology lessons, and helped us all find our inner science nerd. It was a unforgettable night of learning and networking!
Vendors ALL IN
Each vendor played a vital part of the night’s success. From the incredible museum, the interactive and fun soccer exhibit, the culinary, coffee, and drinks at cocktail hour, to the delicious stations at dinner, everything was a delight!
A huge shoutout goes to the incredible sponsor team that helped bring “The NACE Cup: Champions of Connection” to life:
Perot Museum of Nature and Science – our amazing venue!
Wolfgang Puck Catering – provided our out of this world culinary and bar
Diversified Media Production Group – lighting, stage, and screens
Your Turn Entertainment – DJ and cocktail hour music
Event Works – lounge seating & rentals
JP Storyworks - videography
Magnify Coffee Catering – cocktail hour coffee and drinks
Harry Photo – photography and photo booth
LAZ Parking – valet parking
Raffles Were Popping
As always, the raffle portion of the evening brought a ton of excitement to close out the event. And honestly, this month’s prizes were on theme.
Guests had the opportunity to win:
• Four VIP tickets and a tour of the National Medal of Honor Museum. A perfect outing for when you’re in Arlington for a FIFA match!
• A $250 gift certificate from Harwood Hospitality. Who doesn’t love a great meal?
• A birthday party package from The Perot Museum of Nature and Science for you and 30 friends. Because we love to celebrate in DFW NACE!
The reactions of our winners during the raffle drawings were worth sticking around for. Education and More!
What continues to set DFW NACE events apart is the atmosphere. These gatherings are never simply about networking—they’re about connection. They’re collaborative, inspiring, and filled with professionals who are genuinely invested in one another’s success.
Events like this serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible talent, creativity, and innovation that make the DFW events industry so exceptional. Whether you’re a longtime member or considering your first DFW NACE event, there’s something truly special about being part of a community that champions growth, collaboration, and excellence.
If you’ve been thinking about getting involved with DFW NACE, consider this your invitation. There’s never been a better time to connect with some of the industry’s most passionate and talented professionals.
For membership information or to learn more about the many benefits of joining this outstanding community, please reach out to our Co-Directors of membership, Calva Powell and Sir J Sparks - membership@dfwnace.com
We’re already looking forward to gathering again at our July meeting at Knotting Hill Place and can’t wait to see what’s next for this remarkable community.
View the photo gallery HERE.