Take a Bow, Mrs. Myers — You're December's Member Spotlight!

Teresa Myers, CMP

This month’s member spotlight goes to Teresa Myers, CMP, who has been the conference manager for the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) since January 2017. Officially beginning her journey into the events industry in 2013, Teresa knew before then that she had a passion for the field. 
 
With her continuing dedication to the field, it’s no wonder why Teresa is our member spotlight this month.
 
Continue reading for her full interview ...
    

1.     When and how did you get started in the events industry?
I had spent a few years in the government contracting world and was absolutely miserable. The only time I enjoyed my job was when events or conferences were involved. From preparing and arranging my director’s conference travel to planning the division’s annual holiday events, I felt most fulfilled when my days were spent planning and executing logistics. Of course, back then, I hadn’t fully realized I was on the path to uncovering my professional purpose. It wasn’t until I piggybacked on a conference trip to Las Vegas with my husband that everything was made clear. The conference was held at the grand Caesar’s Palace. As my husband conferenced, instead of getting pampered at the spa or shopping on the strip until I dropped, I spent the days exploring and experiencing the hotel’s convention space. I know, kinda lame, right? I just couldn’t help myself — there was something drawing me! I was in complete awe. I remember saying to myself, “I can do this,” even though I had no idea what “this” was or how to get started. 
 
We traveled back home, and I still felt something pulling me to uncover the “this.” I conducted some research (I typed “event jobs” into Google!) and discovered an entire new world. At the time, Prince George’s Community College had just established a newly accredited events and meetings management program. I enrolled in the program, told my husband I needed a change and would be quitting my job, and from there, I was off to the races! I didn’t waste any time — this all happened within a week of our return!
 
In my “Intro to Hospitality” course, I vividly recall the professor saying, “If you want to plan conferences and conventions, you should consider working at an association.” Well, I did just that, thus, my entry into the events industry! It’s still hard for me to wrap my head around all the events that took place for me to get here, but I don’t have an ounce of regret. I’m fulfilled every day, and I’m living out my purpose. What more can you ask for?!
 
2.     What is the best career advice you’ve ever received? 
“For every problem, there’s a solution.” Since expressed to me over 10 years ago, I’ve viewed this one piece of advice as advice to live life by. It has helped me keep things in perspective when situations arise or there’s a challenge that needs to be overcome. 
 
3.     What do you find most inspiring about the industry right now?
With a devastating global pandemic and the events industry being turned upside down this year, I’ve been most inspired by the industry’s resiliency and creativity. It’s been amazing to watch my peers pivot and rise to the challenge with ingenuity and creativity. Who knows what will come in the next year or so, but I’m confident our industry will thrive because there’s no sign of us giving up or giving in. It’s all very inspiring.
 
4.     What is one thing you would like to see change/improve in the industry? 
I would like to see a more purposeful and intentional effort at introducing and bringing minority students into the industry. We’re seeing a major shift within organizations, including MPI, where value is being placed on inclusivity and diversity. As a component of developing initiatives and partnerships, there should be a concerted focus to target minority students. By doing so, I believe the benefit to our industry as a whole could be astounding. 
   
5.     What do you love most about being a member of the MPI Potomac Chapter? How has being a member impacted you personally/professionally (or, if you have recently become a member, what do you hope to get out of being a member)?   
Working closely with my peers on the Certifications and Career Development Committee! It took me a while to get involved in the chapter, and I regret not joining a committee sooner. The leadership is unmatched, the culture within the committee is uplifting and collaborative, and the professionals who make up the committee are amazingly creative. 

Being a member of the chapter has impacted me professionally by allowing me opportunities to connect, discover, learn and grow with my peers (outside of my job). From the professional development offerings to the opportunities to be actively engaged within the various committees, the chapter has allotted me the space to grow without barriers — and for that, I’m forever grateful!