Support a one-time, clearly defined task with no long-term commitment (e.g., event check-in, discussion host). Time commitment varies by project; meeting attendance is not always required.

Collaborate with a committee to complete specific tasks that support the chapter’s annual goals. Time commitment varies by committee; onsite attendance at chapter meetings is not always required.

Committee chairs serve an important leadership role in our chapter. Lead and coordinate a volunteer committee, foster engagement, and serve as the liaison to the Board. Time commitment varies; requires strong leadership, communication skills, and regular virtual meetings.

Serving on the Board of Directors is a highly rewarding experience both personally and professionally. Board Members provide strategic oversight for committees and support the chapter’s mission. Board service is a significant leadership commitment requiring time, dedication, and proven service to the chapter.

Committee Responsibilities

The Awards Committee is charged 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

• Nicole Filippo, CMP

Committee Chair

• Molly Johnson, CMP-Fellow

Committee Members

Committee Responsibilities

The Governance and Nominating Committee supports the Board in governance policy oversight and the nomination of directors and officers. It is chaired by the Immediate Past President, includes the President-Elect as a non-voting member, and consists of members appointed by the President and ratified by the Board.

Chair - Immediate Past President

• Nicole Filippo, CMP

Committee Members

Committee Responsibilities

The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Committee creates networking and educational opportunities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the chapter, community, and industry. Committee members develop and coordinate inclusive educational content, events, and activities that celebrate diversity and foster meaningful dialogue.

VP of DEI

• Star Robertson

Committee Co-Chairs

• Joyce Worrell
• Isaiah Griffin

Committee Members

• Malinda Harrell, CMP Fellow, CASE
• Erin White
• Renita Williams
• Lakesha Moore
• Tarshi McCoy, CMP
• Amanda Busey
• Wonderland Dawson
• Deanna Jones

Committee Responsibilities

The Education Committee selects education topics, themes, and speakers based on industry trends and member feedback. The committee provides speaker care for each chapter meeting, creates session recaps, and partners with Marketing & Communications to promote educational content.

VP of Education 

• Ariana McGill, CMP, DMCP 

Education Committee Chair

Education Committee Members

• Jason Arnold 
• Candice Batts
• Maureen Donovan
• Tammy Jeffries
• Lynne Krekelberg
• Kristin Walker

Committee Responsibilities

The Professional Certification Committee plans educational programs to support members pursuing CMP and other certifications, manages and leads the MPI Carolinas virtual CMP study group, and shares certification updates with Marketing & Communications. 

VP of Education 

• Ariana McGill, CMP, DMCP 

CMP Study Group

• Tarshi McCoy, CMP
• Tessa Barrier, CMP

Committee Responsibilities

The Meeting Planning Committee plans and manages chapter meetings and events, including on-site execution and experiential elements such as design, menus, décor, and audiovisual, as well as the annual awards gala.

Director of Meeting Planning

• Shawn Clary, HMCC

Committee Chair

Committee Members

Committee Responsibilities

This dynamic team designs and executes engaging FUNdraising initiatives that build community, enhance member experiences, and support the chapter’s goals. 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.

VP of Finance

• James Belmonte

Director of Fundraising

Committee Chair

Committee Members

• Patricia Byrd
• Maria Lopez
• Courtney Meyer
• Kristina Wheeless

Committee Responsibilities 

The Planner Partner Forum Committee develops and delivers a collaborative event connecting planners and suppliers, promotes participation, and generates revenue to support chapter programming and growth. 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.

Director of FUNdraising

Committee Chair

• Floyd Isley

Committee Members

• Ariana McGill, CMP, DMCP
• Jason Arnold
• Jamie Walker
• Christian Schroder
• Kait Lopez

Committee Responsibilities

The Social Media Committee is essential to our chapter's success, delivering  consistent, engaging communications that inform and connect members while adhering to MPI branding. The committee 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 (MMM) e-newsletter.

VP of Marketing and Communications

• Melanie Mason, CMP

Social Media Committee Chair

• Samantha Green Ewald

Committee Members

• Charlee Moss
• Christian Schmit

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.

VP of Marketing and Communications

• Melanie Mason, CMP

Committee Chair

• Rachel Mintel

Committee Member

• Margo Ginsberg, CMP

Committee Responsibilities

The Membership 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.

VP of Membership

• Alex Morales

Director of Membership

• Wonderland Dawson

Committee Chair

• Lola Jones

Committee Members

• Cathy Carpenter
• Katie Clark

Chapter Ambassadors 

• Lynn Skinner
• Patricia Byrd, CMP

Committee Responsibilities

The Volunteer Engagement Committee manages the online volunteer interest form and intake process, connects with volunteers to assess engagement and satisfaction, and manages volunteer appreciation efforts. Additionally, the committee is dedicated to fostering member engagement by incorporating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, supporting diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and strengthening community partnerships at each chapter meeting.

Director of Membership

• Wonderland Dawson

Committee Chair

• Maria Lopez

Committee Members

• Brittney Derrick
• Lisa Ferguson
• Lizzie Brill