Linda Whitlock: January Engaged Member of the Month

How did you become involved in MPI? 
Val Braun. Val has always 'encouraged' me to get involved in the industry -- then, set me up to be her successor on committees and in leadership roles.  ILEA Chicago VP Programs, ILEP Chicago President, MPI Golf Committee, MPI Membership Committee.

What has been the most exciting moment or memorable thing that has happened since joining MPI?
won the beer stein holding contest at the New Member Mixer in November at Kaiser Tiger! A great welcome back into our MPI community :)

How did you become part of the event industry?
I kind of stumbled into it. I visited Chicago for the first time when I was in college and fell in love with the Windy City! After graduating from MSU, I returned to Chicago and knocked on doors. Kenneth Brown at The Hyatt Regency Chicago offered me a job to manage the midnight shift of Scampi's -- 24 hour restaurant. I jumped at the chance and then was here to stay!

How has MPI impacted your career?
MPI helps keep me stay in tune with the pulse of the industry and popular trends. As a business owner, I want stay ahead of the curve to design new programs that enhance my client's meetings and events. Also, MPI has also connected me with great people -- both clients and vendors -- that are forward thinkers and passionate about the industry.

Tell us something unique about you?
Whenever I book a new program (or someone on our team), we gather together and blow the Wiener Whistle. It's a tradition!