CAPIO is charting new waters this fall with a new addition to the STAR Awards celebration: the Compact Symposium. On October 2, 2025, public communicators from across California will board the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach for a one-of-a-kind day combining training, connecting and celebrating.

The morning kicks off with the Compact Symposium: Lights, Camera, Impact! Video Creation & Metrics that Matter. This fast-paced, high-value training session gives attendees a unique chance to level up their video storytelling and social media strategy. Participants will learn from video producer Zach Camerino, who will share how to create polished, engaging content tailored for today’s platforms including mastering the transformation of horizontal footage into vertical reels and building compelling short-form narratives. CAPIO Immediate Past President and social media expert Tom Christensen will then break down the metrics that matter most, giving communicators a clear roadmap for measuring impact beyond vanity numbers.

This new symposium format is a focused, accessible way to gain practical skills that can be applied immediately connecting theory to hands-on strategies, all designed with the unique needs of government communicators in mind.

After a morning of training, the celebration begins with the STAR Awards Luncheon, honoring the most creative and impactful video work produced over the past year. With more than 40 categories—ranging from Public Safety to Parks and Recreation, as well as new areas like Emergency Management, Transportation, and Water—the STAR Awards shine a light on the outstanding storytellers helping communities connect with their government. Specialty honors such as Content Creator of the Year and Member Choice of the Year ensure both individuals and teams get the recognition they deserve.

The day offers not only skill-building and celebration, but also a chance to connect with peers in a truly unforgettable setting aboard the incomparable Queen Mary. Longer and faster than the Titanic, the Queen Mary carried royalty, Hollywood icons, and even troops during World War II, earning the nickname the ‘Grey Ghost.’ Today, she serves as a cultural landmark in Long Beach Harbor. For those who want to experience the history and grandeur of the Queen Mary, an optional guided tour of the ship will be available in the afternoon.

This is the year to make the STAR Awards and Compact Symposium part of your fall! Register now!

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