Introductions: necessary formality or poetic prelude?

Whether we are introducing a program, a speaker, or an issue, our purpose is to convey information, spark interest, and create an attitude, preferably a positive one. Many of us tackle the challenge of introductions lightly, exerting no more time and energy than minimally necessary. Is this lack of preparation detrimental to our purpose? This article suggests that introductions can significantly affect the success of a gathering. Specific ways to enrich an introduction are presented.