Opening General Session

June 17 • 8:00am - 9:30am

Once again, Essilor is the generous sponsor of the Opening General Session and keynote speaker Frank W. Abagnale — one of the world’s most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement, and secure documents. For over 30 years Abagnale has worked with, advised, and consulted with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies around the world.

Abagnale’s rare blend of knowledge and expertise began more than 40 years ago when he was known as one of the world’s most famous confidence men. This was depicted most graphically in his best-selling book, Catch Me If You Can, a film of which was also made, directed by Steven Spielberg with Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks. Between the ages of 16 and 21, he successfully posed as an international airline pilot, pediatrician, stockbroker, college professor, and even an assistant attorney general all while cashing $2.5 million dollars in fraudulent checks in every state and 26 foreign countries. Apprehended by the French police when he was 21 years old, he served time in the French, Swedish, and U. S. prison systems. After five years he was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by teaching and assisting federal law enforcement agencies.

Abagnale has now been associated with the FBI for over 30 years. More than 14,000 financial institutions, corporations, and law enforcement agencies use his fraud prevention programs. In 1998 he was selected as a distinguished member of “Pinnacle 400” by CNN Financial News — a select group of 400 people chosen on the basis of great accomplishment and success in their fields. In 2004, Abagnale was selected as the spokesperson for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA). He has also written numerous articles and books including The Art of the Steal, The Real U Guide to Identity Theft, and Stealing Your Life.