Whey they identify candidates and can substantiate why these people are winners, reward them for referrals. That's why they enlist them as speakers. Ask board managers, program chairs, and officers for the names of these superstars. Ask them to look at the attendance list with you and identify the shakers and movers. Look at the meeting agenda, find out who's speaking, initiate a conversation, and begin to establish a relationship.
E-mail a response to the author and start a dialogue.
You never know where the conversation could go. Interview editors to find out who caught their attention. Watch for people often quoted. Interview reporters to find out who caught their attention. Tell them why you were impressed and ask them to call you if they would like to explore an opportunity.