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MetLife, in partnership with the American Benefits Council, is proud to host the 8^th National Benefits Symposium, March 18 - 19, 2012 in Washington, D. C. The 2012 Symposium will coincide with the 100^th Anniversary of the Cherry Blossom Festival. The Cherry Blossoms were a gift from Japan to celebrate spring in Washington, D.C., and the enduring friendship between the people of the U.S. and Japan.

About the Symposium

The annual Benefits Symposium is a nationally recognized and respected benefits forum which brings together distinguished industry leaders, renowned experts and an exclusive invited guest list of senior-level benefits professionals to participate in a stimulating dialogue designed to shape industry thinking on critical benefits issues.

The Symposium offers attendees an exceptional opportunity to gain valuable insights from influential leaders in government, industry and corporate America on the major current and future issues facing benefits professionals today. Attendees will engage in thought-provoking discussions that will focus on fresh opportunities for prospering in a challenging benefits environment and creating a competitive edge in an increasingly uncertain environment as a result of entitlement and tax reforms, high unemployment and economic uncertainty.

The Symposium begins on Sunday, March 18^th with a welcome reception and dinner, followed by a keynote address by Mika Brzezenski and Joe Scarborough, Hosts of MSNBC's Morning Joe, who will examine the front runners of the 2012 election and provide insights on the presidential candidates.

On Monday, March 19, we offer a full day of general sessions and panel discussions featuring subject matter experts - recognized academic, government and business leaders such as Co-Chairs of The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, Erskine Bowles, Former Chief of Staff, the Clinton Administration and Alan Simpson, Former Senator, Wyoming; Fred Van Deusen, Senior Research Associate at the Center for Work & Family, Boston College; Tony Nugent, Executive Vice President, Employee Benefits Sales, The Americas, MetLife; and Ron Leopold, Vice President, Marketing and National Medical Director, The Americas, MetLife.

Additional topics of discussion will include:
- An in-depth look at the 2012 political headlines and hot topics;
- Information to help HR executives lead their companies during a period of uncertainty;
- An examination of the priorities for reducing the national debt and the impact on American businesses to compete in a new environment;
- A discussion of the potential health care and retirement public policy initiatives that will be the focus for 2012;
- Multinational solutions for wellness and strategies employers are embracing in response to the need for a healthier workforce;
- Various perspectives on the challenges facing the enactment of health care reform;
- Employer strategies and employee perceptions regarding their benefits programs;
- The future of Social Security and Medicare programs;
- The pursuit of individual financial security
Space is limited and in demand. Register now!

Agenda & Speakers

For Speaker Bios, please click on photos or names

SUNDAY, MARCH 18^th

3:00 p.m.	Registration Opens Ballroom Foyer
5:15 p.m.	Welcome Reception Oriental Ballroom Foyer
6:15 p.m.	History of the Cherry Blossoms Susan Norton, Chairman of the Board, National Cherry Blossom Festival
6:30 p.m.	Dinner and Keynote Address Election 2012: Who’s Leading and What Platforms Will Win Mika Brzezinski, Co-Host, MSNBC’s Morning Joe and Best-Selling Author Joe Scarborough, Host, MSNBC’s Morning Joe and Former U.S. Congressman (R-FL) Oriental Ballroom
8:15 p.m.	Optional Networking Session /Dessert Hour Hillwood & Foyer

MONDAY, MARCH 19^th

7:30 a.m.	Breakfast Oriental Ballroom
8:30 a.m.	Welcome and Opening Remarks Anthony Nugent, Executive Vice President, Employee Benefits Sales, The Americas, MetLife Grand Ballroom
8:45 a.m.	Addressing the Federal Fiscal Challenges Erskine Bowles, Former Chief of Staff, Clinton Administration and Co-Chair, The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform Alan Simpson, Former Senator, Wyoming, and Co-Chair, The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform Grand Ballroom
9:45 a.m.	Tax Reform Implications for Benefits Dr. Eric Toder, Former Deputy Treasury Secretary, Clinton Administration Randy Hardock, Managing Partner, Davis & Harman LLC Grand Ballroom
10:45 a.m.	Break
11:00 a.m.	The MetLife Study of Global Financial Wellness Panel Fred Van Deusen, Senior Research Associate at the Center for Work & Family, Boston College Kevin M. Close, Vice President, Global Compensation and Benefits, EMC Corporation Barbara Kontje, Director, Retirement, American Express Grand Ballroom
12:00 p.m.	NEW!!! Networking Luncheon Session Oriental Ballroom
1:00 p.m.	Supreme Court Health Care Ruling and How It Will Affect Employers Paul Dennett, Senior Vice President, Health Care Reform, American Benefits Council Mark D. Harris, Partner, Proskauer Rose LLP Grand Ballroom
2:00 p.m.	MetLife’s 10^th Annual Employee Benefits Trends Study Ron Leopold, Vice President, Marketing and National Medical Director, The Americas, MetLife Grand Ballroom
3:00 p.m.	Closing Remarks Anthony Nugent, Executive Vice President, Employee Benefits Sales, The Americas, MetLife Grand Ballroom

Agenda is subject to change. Please check back for updates.

About the Location

Grand elegance within walking distance of the nation’s most cherished monuments, Capitol Hill, and the revered museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the Mandarin Oriental is ranked by Institutional Investor magazine as one of the top 100 hotels in the world. The Mandarin Oriental in Washington D.C. creates memorable experiences for any traveler to the most powerful city in the world.

In addition to the luxurious accommodations, you can experience the world-class spa, a fitness center with panoramic water views, and a 2,000 square-foot gallery space, featuring an exhibit of fine art provided by a unique arrangement with the Smithsonian Institution. You will also have access to the hotel’s exquisite restaurants.

Click on the “D.C. Attractions” tab for some useful websites that may help you plan your trip.
Links to D.C. Attractions

Washington, D.C., boasts an incredible array of attractions. See one of the many national memorials and monuments including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Visit world-class museums such as the National Gallery of Art, the National Air & Space Museum and tour the cornerstones of our government: the U.S. Capitol, the U.S. Supreme Court and the White House.

Below are a few links to websites that may help you plan your trip.

Everything You Need to Know About D.C.
The official tourism site of the Washington, D.C. area is full of complete and timely information. Experience all of the fabulous points of interest our nation’s capital has to offer. You’ll find information on where to eat, where to shop and the best things to do during a spring weekend in March.
www.washington.org

Local News, Weather and More!
Get the latest news, weather and traffic reports from the Washington Post. It’s full of special offers and points of interest with wide appeal. Check out the special "Going Out Guide" tab for a full listing of what’s currently going on.
www.washingtonpost.com

THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO SEE!

Don’t Miss the 100^th Anniversary of the National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival annually commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from the city of Tokyo to the people of Washington, D.C., honoring the lasting friendship between the U.S. and Japan and celebrating the continued close relationship between our two cultures. The 2012 festival marks the 100th celebration. Bring your camera and enjoy the spirit of the season.
www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org

Arena Stage
Offering a focus on theatre of the Americas, with a deep-rooted support of strong art. Productions vary from epic dramas to grand musicals, the theatre’s criteria is quality.
Approximately 20 minute walk/0.9 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.arenastage.org

Arlington Cemetery
This is more than a cemetery: it’s a record of history, of America’s wars, heroes and explorers, a place where people come to pay their respects and seek inspiration.
Approximately 7 minutes/3 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.arlingtoncemetery.net

DAR Constitution Hall
A stately building created in 1929, now a performance venue for symphony concerts, ballets and some theatre.
Approximately 5 minutes/1.5 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.dar.org/conthall

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Six theaters form the Nation’s performing arts center. You’ll find everything from musicals to concerts and performances from many international entertainers.
Approximately 10 minutes/4 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.kennedy-center.org

Mount Vernon
The beautifully situated estate of George Washington is an 18th century self-contained plantation and farm, overlooking the Potomac River. Originally run by a workforce of 316 slaves, it produced quality wool, grew flax and hemp and incorporated textile production for linen, cloth and rope.
Approximately 25 minutes/15 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.mountvernon.org

The National Mall
This two-mile long, green mall with stately views of the U.S. Capitol is bordered on each side by museums and national monuments and is a pleasant space to relax.
Approximately a 10 minute walk/less than 1 mile from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.washington-landmarks.com/mall.html

National Theatre
This theater has been in existence for over 160 years, it is an historic venue reputedly known for having its own ghost. Performances feature national tours of Broadway favorites.
Approximately 5 minutes/1.5 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.nationaltheatre.org

The Pentagon
Home to the US Department of Defense, this structure was built during the second World War.
Approximately 8 minutes/3.4 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
pentagon.osd.mil

The Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian was set up by James Smithson as an “establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge”. Today, there are 18 museums and galleries with so many artifacts that only 1% of them are ever on display. It’s the biggest museum complex in the world.
Approximately 10 minute walk/less than a mile from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.si.edu

Waterside Promenade
Located just outside the hotel is Southwest Waterfront. Enjoy a peaceful stroll past the yachts and houseboats or visit one of the many seafood restaurants.
Located directly outside the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.swdc.org

The White House
The White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, has been home to the President of the United States for over 200 years.
Approximately 5 minutes/1.5 miles from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.whitehouse.gov

U.S. Capitol
This impressive building has housed the meeting chambers of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate for two centuries. It is the hub of American policy-making.
Approximately 5 minutes/1 mile from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.uschs.org

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
This internationally acclaimed museum displays the history of the Holocaust in a chronological exhibition over three floors. There are artifacts, films, photos, and oral histories.
Approximately 10 minute walk/1 mile from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.
www.ushmm.org

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Symposium 2011:
A Look Back

The MetLife 7^th National Benefits Symposium, held in March 2011, received high accolades from the senior-level benefits professionals who attended. To read what invited guests had to say about their experience, click here.

To view a video featuring a few of the highlights from the MetLife 7^th National Benefits Symposium, click on the image at left.

INVITED GUESTS GAVE HIGH MARKS ON THEIR EXPERIENCE AT THE METLIFE 7TH NATIONAL BENEFITS SYMPOSIUM:

100% of 2011 attendees said the symposium “met, exceeded or far exceeded” their expectations.

The high majority of attendees agreed that…

“…The Symposium was informative and good use of their time.”

“…The topics discussed were relevant to me.”

“…The Symposium advanced the dialogue around critical issues facing the employee benefits industry today and in the future.”

“…The Symposium provided me with insights which I can use to make day-to-day decisions about my company’s benefits strategy.”

“…The Symposium allowed me to anticipate future trends and think more strategically about my company’s benefits.”

“…The speakers were engaging and enthusiastic.”

“…The Symposium provided for valuable networking opportunities.”

“…You do this SO well!”

“…Superbly done! Far exceeded my expectations—this was my first time at this Symposium. All facilitation, registration, hotel accommodations, food & beverage service, printed materials were first rate! Thank you very much!”

“…Excellent conference!! Thank you so much.”

“…Excellent Symposium again this year. Great work!”

“…Absolutely fantastic! Thank you.”

“…Thanks for the invitation and the excellent program.”

“…Great conference, very informative. Thank you for the opportunity to attend!”

“…Outstanding presentations and environment. Thank you MetLife!”

“…Great program! Thank you!”

“…Very impressed with event – all speakers were very good presenters, energetic, well educated on their subjects. Came to learn more and I definitely did!”

“…Very good. Lots of hard work, thanks! Great location!”

The MetLife 7^th National Benefits Symposium featured an impressive speaker roster of recognized leaders and experts, including:
- An Insider’s Look at the Economic Scene: What's Happening in Washington and Its Effect on Business - Peter R. Orszag, former Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Obama Administration
- Addressing the Federal Fiscal Challenges - David M. Walker, Founder and CEO, Comeback America Initiative and former United States Comptroller General
- Public Policy Outlook and Key Employer Concerns - The Future of Health and Retirement Plans - James A. Klein, President, American Benefits Council; James M. Delaplane, Jr., Partner, Davis & Harman, LLP
- The MetLife Study of Global Health & Wellness - Kathy Lynch, Director, Employer Engagement, Sloan Center on Aging & Work, Boston College; Joined by Panelists: Jeannie Jones, Manager, Health, Sustainability & Performance, GlaxoSmithKline; Alberto M. Colombi, MD, Corporate Medical Director, PPG Industries; Robert Gray Holdom, FSA EA, Vice President, Human Resources, American Express
- Politicking for the Future - Peter Beinart, Senior Political Writer and Assistant Professor of Journalism and Political Science at City University of New York
- Employee Benefits Trends Study - Ronald S. Leopold, MD, Vice President, Marketing and National Medical Director, The Americas, MetLife
- Practical Guide to Improving Your Benefits Communications Programs - Jennifer Benz, CEO, Benz Communications; Joined by Panelists: Kim Grbac, Director of Benefits and Compensation, Edward Jones; Mike Greenberg, Senior Director, Benefits & Relocation, Toys “R” Us; Kelley Korte, Director of Benefits, American Greetings; Melanie Miller, Associate Vice President, Compensation & Benefits, Ardent Health Services
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FAQs
How do I register to attend the 8th National MetLife Benefits Symposium?

Simply click “Register Now” and complete the online registration form. You will receive an e-mail confirmation at the address you provide.
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What if I can't attend the Symposium, but would like copies of the presentations?

Click on “Can’t Attend?” and provide your contact information. You will receive information shortly after the event about how to obtain copies of the presentations.
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How do I cancel my registration?

If you have already registered but need to cancel, please notify us as soon as possible by emailing or calling Caitlin Solli at csolli1@metlife.com or (212) 578-8806.
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Do I make my own hotel reservations?

No, we will make your hotel reservations for you after you complete the registration form. Accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel are provided courtesy of MetLife for the evening of Sunday, March 18 only. Please be aware that you will not receive a confirmation number for your hotel reservation, because the rooming list is not submitted to the hotel until one week prior to the event.
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How do I extend my hotel reservation?

Accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel are provided courtesy of MetLife for the evening of Sunday, March 18 only. If you would like to extend your stay to include a pre- or post-stay at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, please select your desired check-in and check-out dates on the registration form—any additional nights of stay will be at your own expense. Please note that accommodations on Saturday, March 17 and Monday, March 19 are based on availability and are on a first-come, first-served basis. The rate is $345 per night, plus tax. We will contact you if your request cannot be fulfilled. If you have any questions, please email or call Caitlin Solli at csolli1@metlife.com or (212) 578-8806.
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Do I arrange my own transportation to and from the event?

Yes, you will need to make your own transportation arrangements at your own expense. If arriving by air, Washington Reagan National Airport is nearest to the hotel. From the airport, we suggest taking a taxi or contacting a shuttle service for transportation to the hotel. If traveling by train, the hotel is a quick taxi ride from Union Station. For those driving themselves to the hotel, visit www.mandarinoriental.com/washington for directions from all points of origin; parking will be available upon arrival (please note that parking charges are not covered by MetLife).
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How should I dress for the events?

Business attire is suggested for the welcome reception and dinner on Sunday, March 18. Business-casual attire is suggested for all sessions on Monday, March 19.
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May I bring my spouse?

Yes, you may bring your spouse along to enjoy your time in Washington, D.C. However, due to an overwhelming response to the Benefits Symposium and space limitations, we can only accommodate invited attendees at the Symposium events and cannot allow spouses to attend any meeting functions, meals, or receptions.
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May I invite a colleague to attend the meeting?

This is an exclusive, invitation-only event. However, if you feel strongly that one of your colleagues would benefit from attending, please email or call Caitlin Solli at csolli1@metlife.com or (212) 578-8806
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Contact Us

If you have questions about the Symposium that are not answered on this website, please email or call Caitlin Solli at csolli1@metlife.com or (212) 578-8806.

Members of the press may contact Karen Eldred, our Media Relations Representative, at keldred@metlife.com or (212) 578-9561.
Register Now!

We encourage you to register today. Space is limited and attendance will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendance is by invitation-only. You will receive an email confirmation once you register. There is no registration fee for the Symposium. Accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental hotel are provided courtesy of MetLife for the evening of Sunday, March 18 only. Attendees are responsible for all transportation arrangements and expenses.

Please choose an option that best describes your attendance:
I will attend the MetLife Benefits Symposium as:
an employer a member of a government or an industry organization a member of the media a speaker/presenter a MetLife employee

Attendee Information

All fields are mandatory.
Name Prefix: First Name: Last Name: Badge First Name: Mailing Address - Street: City: State: Zip: Business Phone: Business Fax: Mobile Phone: E-Mail: Confirm E-Mail: Can we include your e-mail address in our on-site attendee roster? Company/Organization:
Company Industry:

Company Size: Title: Department: Have you attended the MetLife National Benefits Symposium in the past? Are you the primary benefits decision-maker for your company? Does your organization operate internationally? Are you responsible for your organization’s international benefits? What are the top three websites/publications you rely on for Benefits information? Advisor Today America’s Health Insurance Plans American Benefits Council ASPPA Department of Labor EBRI ERIC (The Erisa Industry Committee) Forbes Gallup ISCEBS International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans LIMRA Plan Sponsor SHRM The Conference Board World Congress Other (Please specify)

New This Year: 2012 Benefits Symposium Mobile Event App

This year, MetLife will be introducing a mobile event app that will be available to all guests attending the 8^th National Benefits Symposium. Designed to work on all smart phones and tablet devices, this app will enable you to access the agenda, speaker bios, and participate in real-time surveys during the Symposium. The app will also allow you to view a list of attendees and their profiles, and we hope will help you connect and communicate with colleagues more easily.

All attendees will be listed in the app with their name, company and job title. If you would like additional information included in your profile, please provide it below.
Please include my email address in my profile: Please include my mobile phone number in my profile: Please include my work phone number in my profile: About Me: Website Address: Facebook Page: Twitter Name: Linked In: Would you like to include a photo so others know who you are?
Hotel Information
Will you need a hotel room?
If yes, please indicate your desired arrival and departure dates below. Please note that accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel are provided courtesy of MetLife for the evening of Sunday, March 18 only. Requests for accommodations for the evenings of Saturday, March 17 and Monday, March 19 are not guaranteed and are subject to availability. We will contact you if your request cannot be fulfilled.

Requested Check-In Date: Requested Check-Out Date:
THE OFFICIAL CHECK-IN TIME AT THE HOTEL IS 3:00PM AND CHECK-OUT IS AT 12:00PM.
Preferred Room:
**We will do our best to accommodate your request, but cannot guarantee availability of specific room types.
Will you be attending the Welcome Reception and Dinner on Sunday, March 18? Do you have any dietary or health conditions that may require special handling? Please include details:
In connection with your invitation to this event, we want to inform you of a recent addition to a Department of Labor (“DOL”) enforcement manual (“Manual”) that provides guidelines regarding meals, gifts, entertainment and expenses associated with educational conferences, such as the upcoming MetLife 8th National Benefits Symposium provided to an ERISA fiduciary from a party that deals with the ERISA plan.

In general, the DOL Manual provides certain guidelines for its personnel in examining these situations. The guidelines suggest that an ERISA plan should have a written policy dealing with these situations and documentation should be maintained of compliance with the policy.

METLIFE SYMPOSIUM
Review Information

Included below are the details of your registration. Please use the “Back” button to make any corrections. Select “Confirm” to complete your registration.

Name Prefix: [DATA FIELD]
First Name: [DATA FIELD]
Last Name: [DATA FIELD]
Badge Name: [DATA FIELD]
Business Phone: [DATA FIELD]
Business Fax: [DATA FIELD]
E-mail: [DATA FIELD]
Company/Organization: [DATA FIELD]
Hotel Room? [DATA FIELD]
Check-in Date: [DATA FIELD]
Check-out Date: [DATA FIELD]
Room Type: [DATA FIELD]
Will you be attending the welcome reception and dinner on Sunday, March 18? [DATA FIELD]
Special Needs: [DATA FIELD]

Please note that hotel accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel are provided courtesy of MetLife for the night of Sunday, March 18 only. Attendees are responsible for any additional nights of stay and for all travel-related expenses.

You Have Successfully Registered.

You will receive a confirmation e-mail shortly. Please print this page for your records.
Can’t Attend?

We regret that you are unable to attend the Symposium. If you would like to receive additional information and/or presentations, please fill out the form below. All fields are mandatory.

First Name: Last Name: Company: E-Mail:

Your Form Has Been Successfully Sent.
You will receive a confirmation e-mail shortly.