Rebecca DeLuca, December Engaged Member of the Month

How did you become involved in MPI?
When I was a meeting planner in Ohio (my first industry role) I was a planner-member and attended MPI PEC in 2007! When I moved to Chicago I became involved with MPI-CAC and when I was asked to chair the Holiday Party in 2013 I didn’t hesitate to accept. It’s been a very fun 5+ years of involvement!

What has been the most exciting moment or memorable thing that has happened since joining MPI?
Being recognized as the 2017 Chapter Leader of the Year for my service to the chapter was a true highlight within my MPI career, thus far. I am also very proud to have played a part in the creation of two chapter education events, the Signature Luncheon and NEXT, during my time as VP Education.

How did you become part of the event industry?
I had a marketing internship with Cardinal Health when I was attending The Ohio State University and part of my responsibilities involved working on the 4,000 person annual program. After a few long months leading up to the event and looong days working the program, I was hooked and knew this was the industry I wanted to grow my career within.

How has MPI impacted your career?
MPI has given me the opportunity to serve on a board, cultivate my strategic thinking skills and immensely grow my network. Within the safe environment of MPI-CAC I have learned how to make mistakes, ask for help and be appreciative of diverse perspectives. I am better at what I do and how much I contribute to my organization’s success because of MPI.

Tell us something unique about you?
My go-to unique fact is that I drove an ice cream truck as a summer job in college (yes, free ice cream all day, every day)! On a more personal note I have a beautiful 13-month-old baby boy and he’s been on 5 trips with us so far - starting him young!