What the hell are you talking about? Academia vs 'real life'? WTF does that mean? Define 'real life'. Props to Gary for putting the show together, even though I wasn't able to attend. See, the thing is, Gary isn't a professional planner in 'the real world'. He's just another grad student who is nice enough to devote quite some time to giving us nice slide shows. The UWCC doesn't have the funds to hire smart people who know how to plan events in 'the real world'. I still don't get your argument.
And last time I check, Marylou, it's Gary's choice where he wants to do with his time, not yours. Quit being such a judgemental asshole, let people do what they want with their free time, and the world would be a better place.