Value of Being Involved - The Benefits of MPI

Meeting Professionals International is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. From networking to professional development, it fuels the growth and advancement of career opportunities for members. MPI has a global community of 60,000 meeting and event professionals with more than 90 chapters and clubs in 24 countries.

Founded in 1977, MPI Chicago Area Chapter is one of the largest chapters with 800 members. It hosts 12 educational and networking events annually. Members are active and engaged with more than 25% of the chapter volunteering in chapter events and committees. Leaders in the hospitality industry have credited MPI for the wonderful opportunities and impact it has had on their career. See below on why they got involved: 

MPI-CAC has provided endless networking opportunities which have allowed me to connect with individuals in the industry to help boost my career as well as bring back new ideas and suppliers for my company to implement and work with. – Justine Radies, CNA

I thrive on giving back, so I’ve been able to pass along my passion for the chapter and the industry to incoming members and future leaders in the industry. My ability to return the favor to the chapter gives me a sense of pride; I’m thrilled to continue to participate in the chapter’s sustained growth and success by sharing my skills and knowledge with new members in the future. – Tammy L. Anderson, CMP, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

MPI has not only helped me grow my network, it has provided the opportunity to take on a leadership role and learn new skills both personally and professionally. -Amanda Reece, NHS Global Events

MPI-CAC has been an important aspect of my career in the last 4 years and I've gained so much from my involvement. I now feel a need to give back to the chapter by taking on leadership roles and by mentoring new members on how they can get as much out of their membership as I have. –Heather Brown, CMP, Allied PRA

When I first started volunteering in the chapter, I was able to learn how to collaborate with colleagues and to learn many new things about our industry.  Then, as I grew into leadership roles as committee vice chair or chair, I had opportunities to learn about leadership.  Certainly, throughout my career, the education offered at MPI programs has enhanced my knowledge of our business.  Then, on the Board, I was able to connect with colleagues around the globe through chapter leadership events and attending MPI international programs. 

Most important to me, are the relationships I have made with fellow chapter members which have impacted me substantially both personally and professionally.  I can honestly say that I would have never had the confidence or network to start my own business 4 years ago without my membership experience in MPI-CAC. –Tracey Furner Stein, HPN Global

My continuous involvement in MPI leadership over the last 14 years continues to give me value every day so that when I speak to others in the industry it gives me the chance to talk about what I have gotten out of it. My MPI career has given me the chance to lead the St Louis chapter, and now to be the president of the wonderful Chicago Area Chapter and provide me with a chance to give back. –Fergal O’Sullivan, Marriott International

Being a leader within the MPI-CAC Community means that I am able to serve those that serve our membership.  My number one goal is to help develop and encourage the leadership within our chapter to develop professionally and personally so that we all benefit from working with each other.  By helping a peer identify their strengths and the strengths of their team members, then they are able to be give the best they have to offer to our chapter.—Tina Reedy, Travis AV