MPI Potomac FYI
September 2021
 
Upcoming Events
 
 
 
Weekly on Tuesdays

September 21 - November 9, 2021

4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Via Zoom
 
Start investing in yourself now by registering today for MPI Potomac’s CMP Virtual Preparation Course.
 
The eight-week, part-live, part-recorded virtual course facilitated by local, experienced CMPs includes lectures and handouts for each section, complete information about the exam and test-taking tips.
 
 
 
 
Progressing to In-Person: Cleaning and F&B Protocols

Thurs., September 30

2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
 
Capital Hilton & Virtual
 

As meeting in-person increases, protocols for the cleanliness of physical space and providing food and beverage have changed. Join us for a discussion of current cleaning standards, how these are implemented, what suppliers and planners need to look for and how these impact offering food and beverage to your in-person attendees.
 
Our panel of experts will include staff from convention centers, hotels, GBAC and a commercial cleaning company to give you a well-rounded look at what you will need to take into consideration for the safety of your attendees.  
 
Learner Outcomes: 
  • Understanding of GBAC Star standards of safety.
  • How to implement safety standards at your meeting/venue.
  • Food and beverage changes to address all safety protocols at your in-person events.
 
 
 
 
SAVE THE DATE: MPI Potomac Insider

Thurs., October 7

4 p.m. to 5 p.m. EDT
 
Whether you are new to MPI or an existing member ready to get more involved, attending this free, online Insider event is your first step to finding out how to get the most of your membership.
 
By becoming a chapter volunteer, you can:
  • Collaborate, lead and sharpen your leadership skills
  • Build a true peer network within MPI
  • Share your professional challenges, experiences and successes with new meeting and event professionals
  • Make an impact on the chapter and the industry 

Be sure to save the date and look out for additional event details to come!
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
 
  
 
In the United States, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the contributions and importance of Hispanics and Latinos to the United States and those American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America. The Hispanic Heritage observance began in 1968.

Oprah Daily recently published a brief video of the history of Hispanic Heritage month, plus activities you could consider trying. Check them out here: Oprah Daily
 
MPI Potomac DE&I Committee took this month to share stories, learn and hear from others in the industry.
 
Storytelling can be a powerful, and sometimes life-changing means, that leaders can use to influence, inspire, educate and make change. Done right, storytelling can connect people by culture, history, values and common interests that in turn can unite individuals, creating a sense of belonging. Storytelling can also promote diversity, equity and inclusion.
MEET Chicago Northwest
Visit Colorado Springs
News & Announcements
 
 
MPI Potomac Podcast is Online Now!
 
Tune in on the first and third Wednesday of each month to hear from industry leaders and influencers as we cover topics from opening up post-pandemic, leadership, mentorship, career advancement and more.
 
So far we’ve published over half a dozen programs with more to come! Click below to listen now on Spotify.
 
 
by Assegid (AZ) Habtewold, MPI Potomac Leadership Committee 
 
1st Timer syndrome is real. I’ve had firsthand experiences throughout the years. I also coached, mentored and trained new supervisors and managers to help them make a smooth transition and excel beyond first-time leadership pitfalls.
 
Let me be clear. The syndrome doesn’t just affect beginners and emerging leaders alone. Many experienced leaders feel that they aren’t ready to go to the next level. They have some reasons that make them get comfortable where they are.
 
The syndrome not only prevents us from tapping into our full potential but it also victimizes our organizations and communities. Countless organizations are starved of new leaders. For instance, take our association. MPI Potomac seeks new Board members, committee leaders and volunteers throughout the year. How many members, especially relatively new members, are responding in the affirmative? Not that many.
 
Summer Sizzle was Hot!
 
Summer Sizzle was held at Anderson House on August 24. Yes, it literally was hot—about 95 degrees with 95% humidity. Despite the warm weather, we were able to host 69 attendees and Bailey the puppy. Thank you to all that were able to join us!
 
A special thank you to all of the sponsors: Anderson House, Extraordinary Events – DJ Jeff Lang, EPNAC Photography, Get Plated Catering & Events, and Canine Companions – Capital Chapter.
 
 
 
Your MPI Potomac Publications Committee
 
Bailey the puppy with trainer
 
A few of our sizzlin' attendees
Career Opportunities
 
Society of General Internal Medicine
Alexandria, VA
MPI Academy Webinars
 
 
Future Forward: People Centered Event Design

Wed. September 22 

12:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. EDT

3 Clock Hours | Domain G: Meeting or Event Design
 
During this digital experience you will learn more about:
  • What attendees truly value and its impact on ensuring your event design puts people first
  • How hybrid and virtual events are evolving to provide a more user-centric experience
  • Why identity is a key factor in people-centered experiences, and how to create safe, inclusive spaces for all your attendees
 
PLUS, this session includes #RealTalk Special Edition: Hispanic Heritage Month // #REALTALK Edición especial: Mes de la Herencia Hispana
 
Hispanic Heritage Month starts September 15, 2021, and to celebrate, you can tune in to this special edition of #RealTalk which will round out the Digital Experience. Join us for a conversation with diversity, equity and inclusion experts that focuses on a critical component of people-centered meeting and event design: identity. Specifically, how the meetings and events industry can create more opportunities for supplier diversity in the marketplace, and how we can develop a greater understanding of how to act as an engaged ally in all situations.
 
Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau