Professional Convention Management Association 20 in Their Twenties Winners Selected
November 18, 2014
The Professional Convention Management Association has selected the 2015 class for their 20 in their twenties program, which is designed is designed to engage the best and brightest young professionals in the meetings industry by recognizing emerging leaders.
“We are privileged to once again have the opportunity to strategically partner with PCMA, the PCMA Education Foundation and their 20 in their Twenties initiative,” said Bob Lander, President and CEO of the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the program’s sponsor.
He added, "As an inaugural partner, we were thrilled to assist in the development of new initiatives that involve and engage emerging leaders to promote innovation within the industry. This is a focus in Austin and we all feel a sense of responsibility to attract, recruit, and retain talented, motivated and productive young professionals to keep moving our industry forward. We recognize that this is critical to its proactive growth and continuing success”
20 in their Twenties Class of 2015
- Ashley H. Akright, CMP, Manager of Conference Coordinators, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
- Magdalina A. Atanassova, Communication Manager, AIM Group International
- Madeleine Bart, Event Coordinator, Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada)
- Michael W. Cubbage, Principal, Meeting Contractors, LLC
- Katrina L. Dunn, Meetings and Foundation Senior Manager, American Society for Nutrition
- Danielle E. Foster, MBA, Meeting Planner, Certified Angus Beef, LLC
- Katharine L. Gausmann, Meetings and Events Specialist, American Feed Industry Association
- Kacie Hackett, Sr. Coordinator, CES Conferences, Consumer Electronics Association
- Kristine Koonts, CMP, Executive Events Manager, Vancouver Convention Centre
- Jennifer Kuchenbecker, CMP, Director of Conferences and Events, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists
- Alana K. Mallory, CWP, Meetings and Events Coordinator, America’s Essential Hospitals
- Leucepe Martinez, Production Assistant, Worldwide Business Research
- Madeja M. Metcalf, Meeting Coordinator, American Institute of Steel Construction
- Samantha L. Moore, Meetings Coordinator, American Bakers Association
- Janet Partlow, CMP, Senior Meetings Manager, J. Spargo & Associates, Inc.
- Cara Pratt, DMCP, Director of Sales, Destination Partners, Inc., A DMC Network Company
- Lindsay K. Pund, Management Associate, BCD Travel
- Kristina Simkins, Product Director, OnPeak
- Jessica L. Smith, MTA, CMP, Senior Meetings Planner, American Bar Association
- Jennifer Vaseleck, Assistant Director of Meetings, NASPA - Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education
“The quality of our applicants this year was outstanding” said Deborah Sexton, PCMA president and CEO. “While this is just our second PCMA 20 in their twenties class, it’s clear the young leaders in our industry have diverse talents and are making a true impact on the organizations they work for.”
Criteria for applicants was to be employed full time in the meetings industry, be 29 years old or younger and to demonstrate ways they consider themselves to be industry leaders. Applicants were not required to be PCMA members. A Committee made up of veteran and members of the inaugural class of 20 in their Twenties recipients reviewed dozens of applications in detail before deciding on the inaugural class.
The individuals selected will receive complimentary 2015 Convening Leaders and Education Conference registration, funds to cover travel expenses to attend Convening Leaders, as well as discounted registration to attend Convening Leaders and Education Conference until they reach the age of 30. Recipients will also receive complimentary membership for 2015 and discounted membership until they reach age 30.
They will have the opportunity to be paired with a member of the PCMA Board of Directors, Foundation Board of Trustees, or Past Leaders for three face to face or virtual mentoring sessions to assist in further development of their innovation and career.
Recipients will be recognized at Convening Leaders in January, as well as in ConveneMagazine and other PCMA communications.
The program is supported by the PCMA Education Foundation, the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Austin Convention Center.
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.
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