February 6, 2025 - February 7, 2025
Chapel Hill, NC
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Volunteering
Volunteers are the heart of our organization. Help make a difference in our chapter and shape its future. Volunteering on a committee is a great way to elevate your membership, grow your network with fellow planners and suppliers, develop your leadership skills, and learn new professional skills.
Opportunities
Ad-hoc Volunteer
Contribute by working on a one-time, clearly defined task without long-term commitment (e.g., registration/check-in table, roundtable discussion host). Time commitment varies by project and not all tasks require attendance at chapter meetings.
Committee Member
Meet with fellow committee members and help accomplish a segment of chapter tasks that support the chapter's annual goals.
Active, dedicated committees are essential for the success of the chapter in its mission to meet the needs of our members. Time commitment varies by committee and not all tasks require attendance at chapter meetings.
Committee Chair
Lead a team of volunteers who are working on a segment of chapter tasks (e.g., fundraising, member engagement). Help build community among committee members. Serve as the liaison between the committee and corresponding board member.
Committee chairs serve an important leadership role in MPI-CC. Time commitment varies according to the charge of the particular committee. Chairs should have an ability to build and lead a team and demonstrate good communication skills. Chairs are asked to conduct regular virtual meetings with committees.
Board Member
Provide strategic oversight of a segment of committees.
Serving on the MPI-CC Board of Directors is a highly rewarding experience both personally and professionally. It is an honor bestowed on qualified members that have earned the respect and admiration of their peers through leadership and service to the chapter. Board membership has many responsibilities and requires a commitment of time and personal dedication to the chapter.
How can I get involved?
Review the below descriptions of our chapter committees and their responsibilities. Let us know you're interested in volunteering by completing and submitting the Volunteer Interest Form.
Membership in MPI Carolinas Chapter is required to serve as a volunteer. If you are not a member, please contact us at christine@themanagementoffice.com for information on how to join our chapter.
Committees
Committee Responsibilities
The Awards Committee is charge with managing and facilitating appreciation for and recognition of the outstanding achievements of individual chapter members, rewarding volunteer involvement on committees, and furthering the visibility and value of meeting professionals within our chapter. The committee oversees the selection process for the chapter's annual awards: Planner of the Year, Supplier of the Year, Hall of Fame, Tomorrow's Leader and Volunteer of the Year.
Immediate Past President
Najauna White, CMP, CDE
Committee Chair
Molly Johnson, CMP-Fellow
Committee Members
Committee Responsibilities
The Education Committee reviews industry trends and member feedback for education session topics, decides on chapter meeting education session topics and themes, and reviews and identifies speakers for chapter meetings. For each chapter meeting, the committee provides speaker care and education session support as needed, writes education session recaps for the blog and Carolina Blitz, and collaborates with the Marketing & Communications Committee to promote education sessions.
What will I gain from joining this committee?
- Speaker selection
- Content development
- Theming education content and program
VP of Education
Rachel Whitten, CMP
Education Committee Chair
Ebony Loadholt
Education Committee Members
Tammy Jeffries
Maureen Donovan
Lynne Krekelberg
Jason Arnold
Candice Batts
Kristin Walker
Committee Responsibilities
VP of Education
Rachel Whitten, CMP
CMP Study Group
Tarshi McCoy, CMP
Tessa Barrier, CMP
Committee Responsibilities
The Planner Partner Forum Committee provides an exciting opportunity to engage with other event professionals, collaborate on the development of an impactful program to connect fellow planners and suppliers, and contribute to the success of the chapter. Committee members design and execute an engaging event, promote planner attendance, and seek participation from industry suppliers. Revenues generated from the Planner Partner Forum help power our programming and support chapter activities throughout the year, ensuring continued growth and engagement for all members.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Leadership Development: Hone your leadership and organizational skills while contributing to the success of the MPI Carolinas Chapter.
- Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful relationships with industry professionals and fellow members.
- Creative Outlet: Share your innovative ideas and contribute to a fun, engaging event connecting fellow planners and suppliers.
- Career Growth: Gain valuable event design and promotion experience to enhance your professional portfolio.
- Fun & Fulfillment: Work in a collaborative, high-energy environment that blends purpose with enjoyment.
Time Commitment
30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 2-3 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
Director of Fundraising
Kathryn Short
Committee Chair
Floyd Isley
Committee Members
Ariana Pearsall
Jason Arnold
Jamie Walker
Christian Schroder
Committee Responsibilities
Are you looking for an opportunity to get more involved with MPI Carolinas while making a meaningful impact? The Volunteer Engagement Committee is dedicated to fostering member engagement through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, supporting DEI efforts, and strengthening community partnerships at each chapter meeting. By joining this committee, you’ll play a key role in shaping volunteer opportunities that enhance both professional and personal growth.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Leadership & Skill Development – Gain hands-on experience in organizing volunteer initiatives, leading projects, and honing communication skills.
- Expanded Network – Connect with MPI members, local nonprofits, and community leaders while building meaningful professional relationships.
- Impact-Driven Experience – Help integrate CSR into chapter meetings, making a difference in the community through sustainability, social impact, and DEI initiatives.
- Recognition & Visibility – Get recognized for your contributions through chapter communications, event highlights, and leadership opportunities.
Time Commitment
Monthly Virtual Meeting – Approximately 30 minutes. Additional Time for Tasks – Expect 2-6 hours per month, depending on your role and level of involvement.
2025 Volunteer Engagement Committee Goals
- Integrate CSR into Meetings – Incorporate sustainability initiatives, food drives, and community-focused activities into chapter events.
- Engage Volunteers Effectively – Define clear roles, recognize contributions, and encourage ongoing participation.
- Support DEI Initiatives – Align volunteer activities with the chapter’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Strengthen Community Partnerships – Build relationships with local nonprofits and social enterprises to expand the chapter’s impact.
- Measure Impact – Develop key performance metrics to track the effectiveness and success of CSR efforts.
- Promote Awareness – Highlight volunteer and CSR initiatives through social media, newsletters, and chapter events.
- Enhance Professional Development – Offer opportunities for members to present updates, lead initiatives, and develop leadership skills through CSR involvement.
If you're passionate about giving back while growing professionally, this committee is a perfect fit! Join us in creating a culture of service and engagement at MPI Carolinas.
Director of Volunteer Engagement
Kevin Holland
Committee Chair
Wonderland Dawson
Committee Members
Maria Lopez
Committee Responsibilities
The Marketing & Communications (MarComm) Committee is essential to MPI-CC’s success, delivering consistent, engaging, and impactful communication that keeps members informed and connected. The committee shares timely updates on chapter news, programs, and achievements while adhering to MPI and MPI Carolinas’ branding and style guidelines to showcase the chapter’s vibrant community.
MarComm promotes chapter and member achievements, events, and updates through social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn), the chapter blog, Carolinas Blitz, and the Midweek Member Minute e-newsletter.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Project management skills
- Leadership and training skills
- Learn and implement social media engagement
- Effective communication skills
- Writing and editing social media copy skills
Time Commitment
A 30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 2-6 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
VP of Marketing and Communications
Melanie Mason, CMP
Social Media Committee Chair
Sam Green
Committee Members
Christian Schmit
Committee Responsibilities
The Membership Engagement Committee plays a vital role within our organization, dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and support for both new and existing members. At its core, the committee's mission is to ensure that newcomers are warmly welcomed and seamlessly integrated into our community. Through our proactive approach, we strive to connect new members with the resources and opportunities that align with their goals within the organization, facilitating their journey towards fulfillment. Central to our efforts is the Ambassador Program, where seasoned members extend a guiding hand to newcomers, offering guidance and assistance every step of the way. Additionally, during renewal periods, the committee maintains consistent communication channels to remind members of the value of their membership, fostering retention and continued engagement. Ultimately, the Membership Committee stands as a pillar of support, enriching the organizational experience for all who join our ranks.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Relationship building & networking opportunities and skills: You'll chat with our members firsthand, often being their first impression of the chapter. Help make new and existing members feel welcome!
- Communication skills: You'll learn and provide valuable insight and feedback from members to the chapter board and membership base.
- Collaboration: You'll play an important role in contributing to organizational growth (Be an MPI champion)
Time Commitment
A 15-20 minute monthly virtual call plus 2-3 hours per month of tasks depending on your role. 30-45 minutes of volunteer opportunities at member events.
VP of Member Engagement
Alex Morales
Committee Chair
Committee Members
Cathy Carpenter
Katie Clark
Chapter Ambassadors
Lynn Skinner
Patricia Byrd, CMP
Barb Dragan
Candice Chuppa
Committee Responsibilities
The Governance and Nominating Committee shall assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities relating to developing and implementing sound governance policies as well as a nomination process for directors and officers. The Immediate Past President shall chair it. The President-Elect shall serve as a non-voting member of the committee. The remaining members of the Governance and Nominating Committee shall be appointed by the President, who may not serve as a member of the committee, which will be ratified by the Board of Directors. There shall be at least six (6) members, including the Immediate Past President as chair, having a quorum of 5 for action. A Governance and Nominating Committee member who may consider serving as an officer shall recuse themselves from the Board development process related to the nomination and development of a slate of officers. In the case of a resignation, the President will be authorized to fill a vacancy. The Governance and Nominating Committee shall be in place no later than the date stated by MPI with final slate submission as stated by MPI.
Chair - Immediate Past President
Najauna White, CMP, CDE
Committee Members
Seth Macchi (non-voting member)
Committee Responsibilities
The Publications Committee produces the quarterly digital publication, The Carolina Blitz, featuring chapter updates, education recaps, member news, profiles, and industry insights for planners and suppliers. The committee develops, solicits, and proofreads content, collaborating with the Blitz designer to deliver a polished publication for members and partners.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Project management skills
- Leadership and training skills
- Effective communication skills
- Writing, editing, and proofreading articles skills
Time Commitment
A 30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 2-6 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
VP of Marketing and Communications
Melanie Mason, CMP
Committee Chair
Rachel Mintel
Committee Members
Committee Responsibilities
The FUNdraising Committee is the heart of creativity and connection within MPI Carolinas Chapter! This dynamic team designs and executes engaging initiatives that foster community, elevate member experiences, and support our chapter's goals through FUNdraising. From planning innovative FUNdraising events to developing unique FUNdraising opportunities, the FUNdraising Committee combines purpose with fun to drive the success of our chapter.
If you’re passionate about making a difference, enjoy brainstorming fresh ideas, and love collaborating with a dedicated group of professionals, the FUNdraising Committee is the perfect place for you. Join us in shaping the future of MPI Carolinas Chapter one exciting initiative at a time!
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Leadership Development: Hone your leadership and organizational skills by managing projects and initiatives.
- Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful relationships with industry professionals and fellow members.
- Creative Outlet: Share your innovative ideas and contribute to fun, engaging experiences for the chapter.
- Career Growth: Gain valuable event planning and fundraising experience to enhance your professional portfolio.
- Fun & Fulfillment: Work in a collaborative, high-energy environment that blends purpose with enjoyment.
Joining the FUNdraising Committee is more than a commitment—it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and make lasting memories!
Time Commitment
30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 2-4 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
Director of Fundraising
Kathryn Short
Committee Chair
Committee Members
Shelley Cromartie
Maria Lopez
Kristina Wheeless
Genevieve Young
Committee Responsibilities
The Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee creates networking and educational opportunities that further the mission of creating a diverse and equitable environment of inclusion in our chapter, community, and respective industries, through education and communication.
Committee members are responsible for ideation, creation, collaboration and coordination of educational content, events, and activities that celebrate our members' diversity, ensure equity for all, and engage membership inclusion through education and deep conversation.
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Create meaningful change: Your feedback and participation directly influence how we cultivate an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Build personal growth: Engage with diverse perspectives and broaden your understanding of DEI topics, enhancing your professional and personal development.
- Strengthen the community: Collaborating with others on DEI initiatives fosters stronger connections, helping to build a more supportive professional network.
- Make a lasting impact: Even a small amount of time dedicated to DEI initiatives helps create long-term change, making our chapter, community, and industries more inclusive.
Time Commitment
30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 1-2 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
VP of DEI
Star Robertson
Committee Chair
Committee Members
Malinda Harrell, CMP Fellow, CASE
Erin White
Renita Williams
Lakesha Moore
Tarshi McCoy
Joyce Worrell
Amanda Busey
Committee Responsibilities
The Meeting Planning Committee helps plan and execute meeting planning duties on behalf of the chapter, and provides on-site management of chapter meetings and events. The committee develops and provides input for all experiential aspects of chapter meetings and the annual awards gala (including but not limited to: menus, set design, tablescapes, and audiovisual).
What will you gain from joining this committee?
- Meeting Planning skills
- Contract Negotiating skills
- Vendor Management skills
- Experience with design & decor
Time Commitment
A 30-minute monthly virtual meeting plus 2-6 hours per month for tasks, depending on your role.
Director of Meeting Planning
Gineen Cargo, CMP
Committee Chair
Anna Monroe
Committee Members
Lindsay Wood
Josh Scovern
Candice Batts
Lizzie Brill
What Our Volunteers Say
"The MPI Carolinas Chapter has been the number one source of education and networking for me. As a meeting planner, I am always looking for new ideas and better ways to do things. With the friends I’ve made over the years through MPI-CC, I can easily shoot an email to someone or pick up the phone to bounce around an idea. I’ve also used MPI-CC as a source for finding speakers and for session topics. Probably what stands out the most are the conversations I have with our members--planners and suppliers. We take time during the receptions and breakfasts to catch up not only on how work is going, but also on how WE are—how’s the family, how are the pets, how is our health (mental & physical!). It’s these conversations that make being a member of MPI-CC feel like being part of a family. When I miss a meeting, it feels like I’ve missed out on a reunion. The education and training are icing on the cake!"
-Ginny Fountain, CMP, CMM
“Serving on a committee for the MPI-Carolinas Chapter adds tremendous value to my membership as I am able to connect much deeper with my fellow members than simply seeing them at the meetings. When we collaborate as a team on various projects, it allows us to share knowledge while building trust and friendship. The saying, ‘you get what you give’ proves so true. If you put forth efforts volunteering for the greater good of the chapter, you’ll be amazed at what you get back.”
-Mallory Middleton, CMP
"What I find the value of volunteering for MPI-CC is that I am able to make a difference in the growth of the chapter by helping to grow our presence in social media and using that to inform and educate. We have such a diverse association and they need to get new information about the industry in various ways. It is an exciting time for the association and volunteering helps to attract other members like me that can see the value in the group and in turn want to volunteer to help continue the growth of the chapter."
-Mica Parekh, CMP
"I am extremely excited to serve with the MPI-Carolinas Chapter. There are many benefits to volunteering, but a few stick out to me the most. Being able to serve in the community through the MPI-Carolina's Chapter affords me the great opportunity to give back and help bring joy to others. Creating joy for others exceed sharing with those who are in need, but for people in general. Personally, giving back in this manner will allow me to gain greater sense of accomplishment, enable me to develop new experiences, and a deeper insight on a world outside of my own. I look forward to volunteering alongside my fellow MPI members who share the same passion, to building new friendships, stronger business partnerships, and much more. In my opinion, service isn't something that gets tacked onto my schedule if there is time, but in my heart."
-Jemeria Lawson | The Durham Hotel
"MPI has always been so important to me. I transferred to the Carolinas Chapter in 1996 from Philadelphia Chapter. I went for my first meeting knowing not one person and had no job. I joined a committee the first meeting and I have been fortunate to have served on several. Whether I was on a committee, Board of Directors, Chapter President, or serving on an International Committee, MPI has given me so much more than I have given to MPI. MPI is Your MPI, get involved, and make the most of your membership. I believe in 'Buy MPI' and I contact other MPI Chapters for resources when planning a meeting in other cities. I value the knowledge, relationships, and growth that MPI has provided me. Make the most of your MPI experience!"
-Linda Ilsley, CMP
