MPI Potomac FYI
December 2020
 
Message from the President
 
 
Watch this message from Devin Lewis, CMP, CEM
MPI Potomac Chapter President

Upcoming Events
 
New On-Demand Plus CMP Prep Course
Launches December 15
 
 
 
  CMP Plus
   
MPI Potomac’s new On-Demand Plus CMP preparation course combines the best of both worlds with on-demand content, plus a live test review and open Q&A session facilitated by experienced CMPs. By registering for the class, you’ll get access to:
  • CMP exam overview and test-taking tips
  • 9+ hours of recorded lectures covering all 9 CMP-IS Domains, facilitated by current CMPs
  • 100 quiz questions to track your understanding while you review the recordings
  • A full-length 165-question practice exam
  • 4-hour live class with all 10+ facilitators from the recorded lectures
  • Structured review of the most commonly missed questions from the practice exam
  • Breakout rooms with each facilitator for you to ask any questions and focus on the domains you are most interested in.
The live course will be held on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021, from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. EST. You’ll gain access to the on-demand recordings and domain quizzes as soon you register. Make the most of it by registering soon after the course launches on Tuesday, Dec.15.
 
Visit for the course website starting Dec. 15, or contact info@mpipotomac.org for additional information.
 
 MPI Potomac December e2:

Lessons Learned on
Hybrid 
Meetings

                      
 
 
Date: Thursday, December 17
Time:
 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Where: Virtual via BAV/JSAV Platform
Notice as of Nov. 22, 2020: The DC government has changed regulations for gatherings down from 50 to 10, so this event will now be fully virtual. We encourage you to join us for this highly educational event.
 
Hybrid meetings are all the buzz. What on earth are they, how do you do them and are they the wave of the future? While in a hybrid setting, hear the good, the bad and the lessons learned from your fellow peers that have already run a hybrid event. This is a can't miss event as we all agree hybrid is our future!
 
Learner Takeaways: 
  • Successful ways to create a learning-conducive atmosphere while maintaining social distance
  • Execution of efficient and safe registration
  • Best practices to keep a virtual and in-person audience engaged
 
Panel:
  • Amy Pettigrew, MPA, CMP, with Catholic University of America
  • Danielle Thomas, MTA, CMP, with Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America
  • Natalie Thomas with MTG Hospitality, Director of Networking Events, MPI
Moderated by: Hillary Howes, CXO, with Moonshot Event Production
 
 
 
MPI Potomac Networking Virtual Luncheon
 
Under the Mistletoe with Six Street Eats
 
Friday, December 18, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

 
Come join us online for a festive time with an amazing chef creating delectable bites exclusively for MPI Potomac. Live from Six Street Eats' pop-up shop in Georgetown, this event will be the talk of the season with:
  • Cooking demonstrations by Chef Daoud Hari
  • Engaging games
  • Virtual networking
  • Holiday cheer
Click here for more details.
 
MPI Potomac’s November e2 was quite the hit! With over 85 attendees, this new format allowed attendees to listen to four sets of panelists moderated by Will Trokey with Visit Charlotte, who shared tips and great information about how working with your local CVB can help you prepare during these changing times.
 
 
How Did Our FIRST Edu-Networking Event Turn Out? 
 
Check This Out ...
 
 
 
 
On Oct. 26, MPI Potomac introduced edu-networking and hosted our first hybrid event at the Sunset Room by Wolfgang Puck with Molecular Food & Cocktails and produced by Extraordinary Entertainment.
 
In person and virtual guests learned about the safety protocols of the venue and how to make prohibition-themed cocktails and mocktails!
 
#SaveEvents
 
 
Click the above image to watch a clip of the Edu-Networking Event!
 
 
Visit Buffalo Niagara
Naylor Association Solutions
News & Announcements
 
  
Each month, the Certifications & Career Development Committee will explore a different meeting-industry certification, and we will talk to an MPI Potomac member who holds it.
 
The Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) offers 13 courses, and nine are required to complete the program. After each course is an exam to demonstrate your in-depth understanding of the overall operations of the events and exhibition industry. The program’s focus is education first so students can apply the knowledge in their careers.
 
 
Qualification: Three years of full-time experience in exhibitions industry
 
Renewal Cycle: Every three years
 
Current CEMs: More than 3,300 active CEMs worldwide
 
 
 
                               “One good conversation can shift the
                             direction of change forever.” - Linda Lam
                                                   
                                               by Heather Young
 
The MPI Potomac Recruitment Committee hosted its inaugural Conversation & Cocktails on Nov. 9 to open its virtual arms to meeting professionals looking to engage in a safe, fun and interactive way. The global pandemic has demonstrated that staying connected with a professional community is more important than ever! With that in mind, current MPI Potomac members engaged in lively conversations with prospective members to showcase everything the chapter has to offer.
 
VP of Membership Carlos Pelham kicked off the event making everyone feel welcome and sharing his MPI story. MPI Potomac President Devin Lewis shared what MPI has meant to her personally and professionally throughout over 20 years of membership, welcoming attendees to enjoy the evening’s event. Attendees were then encouraged to shake off the day with an interactive wellness moment led by Carley Vitek. Fun trivia for prizes, polls and an active chat room bolstered engagement throughout the event, ending with closing remarks by Director of Membership Recruitment Lindsay Schattenstein.
 
Two rounds of 20-minute conversations created an intimate atmosphere for attendees to engage in an open forum with MPI members. Discussion topics included "Navigating A Virtual Event World," "Next Steps on Your Career Path," "Best Practices for Hosting an In-Person Event" and "Providing Value to Yourself and Your Employer." A big thank you goes out to all of the member facilitators: Shawna Haggerty, Derek Suminski, Malene Ward, Evan Nielson, Heather Young, Krystal Heard, Christina Charron, Lynne Polinski and Katie Bohrer.
 
 
 
Leadership Series & Mentoring Program Updates
 
  Leadership Series
   

The Leadership Development Committee is committed to provide members with fresh ideas regarding leadership and mentorship. Below is a list of upcoming content and information updates on both programs.

Leadership Series
Are you thinking about joining the board of directors or just want to learn more about the process? Then be sure to watch the second installment of our Leadership Series “Completing the Board Application” later this month. It will focus on completing questions that are on the board application.

Mentoring Program
Did you know that there are several health benefits of mentorship? Here are a few from the health professionals at Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
 
Emotional Benefits:
For Mentors: A way to give back; work with varying personalities and styles; get the satisfaction of imparting wisdom and advice.
For Mentees: It provides a support system during critical stages of development.
 
Community Benefits: Both mentors and mentees will experience the diversity of cultures and experiences.
 
Social Benefits: Both mentors and mentees will create a career network.
 
Career Benefits: Mentors can enhance their skills in coaching, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Are you looking to grow personally and professionally? Looking for ways to engage with other MPI Potomac Chapter members? Consider signing up for our new mentor program that will launch in January. Contact Ronda Keys at rkeys@inspiredeventpro.com.
 
Have You Purchased Your MPI Mask Yet?

Our primary concern is your health and safety. Why not show some Potomac Pride while you stay safe? Click HERE to order your mask TODAY!!!
 
 
                     MPI MASKS
 
Visit Alexandria
Destination Checklist for Today’s Meetings
Today's environment poses new challenges for meeting planners including changing regulations, safety protocols, creative spacing, and hybrid solutions. As part of its COVID-19 Resources Toolkit, Visit Alexandria offers a Meeting Planner Checklist to help you ensure your next destination is ready to help you host a safe and successful event.
 
Download your Checklist Now
Advertisement
 
Call for Presentations is happening now!
 
MPI Potomac invites all speakers to submit presentations to be considered
for our 2021 Conference and Expo.
Be a thought leader and share your experiences.
 
Deadline: December 31, 2020
 
Click the logo below to learn more about ReConEx.
 
 
CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!
 
 
  River
   
Congratulations to the two chapter members that earned their Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) credential in October: 
 
Kelly Gerstenberg
Heather Young
 
 
The CMP credential is recognized globally as the badge of excellence in the meeting, convention, exhibition and event industry. The qualifications for certification are based on professional experience, education and a rigorous exam. They demonstrate their comprehensive knowledge of meeting management as well as a commitment to the meeting profession.  
 
MPI Potomac is so proud of your achievements Kelly and Heather.
 
                     
 
Welcome to our newest members who joined in November!
 
 
Allison Dossett, Clinical Care Options
 
Lisa Johnson-Briggs, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America
 
Eric Kulczycky, Visit Fairfax
 
Kim Villamera
 
Dornell Watson-Dean, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Career Opportunities
 
Society of General Internal Medicine - Alexandria, VA
 
LAI Live - Washington, DC
 
LAI Live - Washington, DC
Spotlight
 
  
 
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 hospitality sector. 
 
With her continuing dedication to the field, it’s no wonder why Teresa is our member spotlight this month.
MPI Academy Webinars
 
Leadership Buy-in:
Modeling Commitment to Affect Change
December 15
1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
1 Clock Hour | Domain E: Human Resources
 
In this webinar, Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee Co-Chairs Tanida Mullen and Zoe Moore will be joined by 2020 IBOD Chair Steve O'Malley and 2021 IBOD Chair Stephen Revetria to discuss the international board of directors' commitment to reinforcing the inclusivity of MPI events through education and action in 2021.
 
Join us for an impactful conversation with our industry leaders and learn how you can work to bring diversity and inclusion initiatives to your workplace, organizations, chapters and more.
 
 
 
WEC Grapevine: Pandemic Meetings
Considerations & Lessons Learned
December 18
11 a.m. - Noon
1 Clock Hour | Domain G: Meeting and Event Design
 
 
In November 2020, MPI delivered an industry-leading, hybrid event in-person at the Gaylord Texan in the heart of Grapevine, Texas, and live online to a global audience representing 17 countries. With more than 600 on-site and 1,200 digital participants, MPI’s lofty mission — to execute a safe, engaging experience for all attendees that delivered on its theme — Reunite for Recovery.
 
Join MPI for this deep-dive conversation about the strategy and execution of the World Education Congress Grapevine from early critical choices to duty of care to the realities of hybrid.