I am KCMPI and I Love What We Do!

Name: Katie Schillare
Title: Director of Special Events
Company: Midland Theatre
Membership Years: 5 years

KCMPI is a great place to learn from and connect with the best in the business. When I started in the industry, the KC Chapter members were so welcoming. I found myself surrounded by those who take such pride in their work, are expert resources in their field, and are honest and supportive. Everyone in KCMPI truly wants the best for each other professionally and personally. I am so thankful for the friendships I've formed and the amazing women who set a great example in my "formative" years in this industry. There is such a wealth of knowledge and opportunity through KCMPI. I appreciate the hard work of those who have made the KC Chapter what it is today.

Name: Sheila Alonzo, CMP
Title: Sr. Meeting & Conventions Specialist
Company: Teva Pharmaceuticals
Membership Years: 11 years

Starting out on the supplier side, I utilized my KCMPI membership mainly as a networking tool. When I decided to cross over to the planner side, my membership morphed into more of a resource for education and knowledge. Wanting to obtain my CMP, I joined the program committee and worked on putting together events for other KCMPI members to enjoy. Meeting and working with members like Inge Hafkemeyer and Shari Hockenberry were truly a pleasure.

What’s most important to you and how has your membership affected you?
I remember signing up for the KCMPI CMP Study Group and thinking what a great resource this is ... of course, we all passed, but thinking back to those members donating their spare time to our success is extremely heartfelt. I was also lucky enough to have received a KCMPI Scholarship. This allowed me to attend the MPI WEC in Montreal, Canada – wow! Do I need to say anymore? I feel my KCMPI membership has given me some wonderful opportunities within the meetings and events industry while also making if FUN!