2025 Conference Agenda
Conference Keynotes
Liz Lang
Marketing and Communications Director, American Planning Association
An advocate for effective creativity, Liz Lang serves as Marketing and Communications Director at American Planning Association, leading marketing communication strategy, customer insight exploration, and content solutions. At APA, Liz is responsible for leading strategic, brand-building efforts for all of APA and its professional institute, AICP.
Liz has also led state-level training on issue campaign development as well as advocacy communications for influence and persuasion. Tenacious and focused, with an eye for what lies just beneath the surface, Liz is a firm believer that the small things can be big, and one size does not fit all. Liz’s work has been honored with Gold, Silver, and Bronze Addy awards, Telly, Excel, and Communicator awards, and a Most Watched YouTube designation. Using a unique blend of insight, story and culture, Liz translates complexity into narrative—finding opportunity amid challenge. Prior to joining APA, Liz served as Global Chief Marketing Officer for Opportunity International, a nonprofit providing financial services to people living in extreme poverty. There she unified the global brand and forged key partnerships, developing the Opportunity cause marketing partnership program and boosting revenue and reach. Liz has also held leadership positions and developed successful multifaceted campaigns for top brands at major agencies including Havas Worldwide, Young & Rubicam, and boutique firm Translation.
Cole Mannix
Co-founder, President of Old Salt Co-op
Cole is part of an extended family that has ranched together since 1882 near Helmville, MT. He did an undergrad in biology, another in philosophy at Carroll College, then a masters in theology at Boston College. From ‘12-’16 he worked for a startup beef company called Salt of the Earth Ranchers Cooperative. From ’17-’20 he worked for Western Landowners Alliance to advance policies and practices that sustain working lands, connected landscapes, and native species. As a co-founder and President of Old Salt Co-op, he is helping to build a regenerative marketplace for fine American meat. He and spouse Eileen Brennan live in Helena with two sons, Finn and Charlie.
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