MPI World Education Congress Demonstrates the Power of Face-to-Face Meetings
June 21, 2021
More than 1,200 event professionals gathered at MPI’s World Education Congress at CAESARS FORUM last week, the largest in-person industry event so far this year. While attendance was about half of pre-pandemic levels, the large showing is another shot in the arm for an industry recovering from essentially a lost year of business.
A hybrid event, WEC placed an emphasis on safety in bringing together 1,229 people in Las Vegas and attracted another 568 remote attendees. Content reflected the state of the industry, pointing toward ways to hold events responsibly while confronting social issues that reinforce the need for greater diversity and inclusion. Among the highlights of the three-day event were a question and answer session between MPI President and CEO Paul Van Deventer and music star Usher, and a panel featuring women executives leading prominent organizations.
Timing worked out well for the event, which occurred two weeks after Nevada lifted all COVID-19 restrictions. While MPI maintained what it referred to as “duty-of-care” procedures, it was able to set a number of firsts:
- First large-scale event at CAESARS FORUM
- First large-scale industry event held at Allegiant Stadium (Opening Night Celebration)
- First large-scale event held at the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (President’s Dinner honoring Terri Breining)
- First large-scale event held at the Venetian Pool Deck (Rendezvous Closing Night Celebration benefiting the MPI Foundation).
Vaccinated attendees were not required to wear masks, and the bulk of the audience identified themselves as ready to forgo social distancing, and acted accordingly.
“This show has been well received by everyone — it’s truly a love fest,” reported Destination DC President and CEO Elliott Feguson on a LinkedIn post, noting this was his first industry show since January 2020. “When people question if in-person events will return, this has been evidence of the importance of convening live. Nothing compares.”
MPI was among the few industry organizations, along with Connect, to host an in-person event in 2020. About 700 attended WEC in Grapevine. Meanwhile, PCMA Convening Leaders adopted a hub-and-spoke hybrid model that was primarily virtual and IMEX was forced to cancel its annual Spring European event. IMEX is moving ahead with its Las Vegas show in November. Connect, which hosted 750 event professionals at a collocated event with BizBash May 24-26 at Red Rock Casino Casino Resort & Spa, is aiming for more than 3,000 Aug. 30-Sept. 1 in Tampa, Florida.
Yet with the seeming return to normal, WEC took on a greater purpose. It occurred as statistics bear out that business travel is not coming back as quickly as hoped (evidenced by MPI’s smaller attendance). Industry shows bringing together trade show organizers and meeting planners with destination representatives and venue operators will be important in spurring new events that should help fill many of the still vacant hospitality industry jobs and further resuscitating the U.S. and global economy.
Angie Ahrens, senior manager of global events at Infor, said she could feel the difference being among her peers again. “Connecting with friends and meeting new colleagues was my priority in coming to Las Vegas,” said Ahrens. “I value hybrid yet it was incredible to be with everyone.”
MPI will mark its 50th anniversary at next year’s WEC, to be held in San Francisco, June 21-23.
Photo Credit: Soliman Productions
Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
Add new comment