Inclusive Impact: Designing Events with EDI at the Core

On October 29th, MPIGNY hosted its latest EDI education program, titled Inclusive Impact: Designing Events with EDI at the Core, at The Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn, NY. The event brought together a diverse group of event and meeting professionals for an insightful panel discussion focused on intentionally incorporating equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) principles into event design and execution.

Engaging Panel Discussion
The panel was expertly moderated by Sandra Serrant, PMP, CMP, MS, and featured distinguished speakers Mike Veny, Cheyenne Nelson, HMCC, MMP, and Janeen Saltman. Throughout the discussion, the panelists shared practical strategies that attendees could implement immediately, as well as personal stories that inspired and motivated the audience. The conversation was dynamic and collaborative, delivering actionable ideas for creating more inclusive event experiences.

Networking Reception
Following the panel, attendees participated in a lively networking reception. This provided a valuable opportunity for professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships with others who are equally committed to fostering inclusive environments within the events industry.

Community Support and Acknowledgments
In addition to the educational content, MPIGNY demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity by supporting The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI). SIGBI is a charitable organization established in honor of the historic Stonewall Inn uprising, which sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and is recognized as a national monument in the United States. A portion of the registration fees from the event was donated to SIGBI to help advance its mission of promoting inclusivity and driving progress toward global equality.

Congratulations to Meg Lyons Nieves and Alicia Rossetti, our lucky drawing winners from  the on-site donations. Thank you to everyone who contributed!

In support of our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, the MPIGNY Chapter made a donation to the Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI) with proceeds ferom this event. The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative’s Safe Spaces certification program helps retail businesses, entertainment venues, and public spaces identify and show visible support for their LGBTQAI+ patrons, employees, customers, and neighbors. We are proud to share that our venue host, Wythe Hotel, has received this certification and is recognized as a Safe Space. To learn more about the Safe Spaces program, please visit: https://safespaces.stonewallinitiative.org

MPIGNY extends sincere thanks to the event sponsors: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Applepix Pro, and Simon Pro Photo Video, as well as to the venue sponsor, Wythe Hotel, for their generous support in making this impactful education program possible.