CMP Study Group - April Reconnect

CMP Spotlight: Bravo to MPI Georgia’s Three New CMP Fellows   By Connie Bergeron, CMP Fellow, President, Site Selection Solutions, Inc. and Chair, MPI Georgia Chapter CMP Study Group Committee

What does it mean to you to have earned the CMP Fellow designation?

Lesli says:  Earning the CMP Fellow designation is both a deeply meaningful milestone and a full-circle moment in my professional journey. Having maintained my CMP designation for nearly 20 years, the Fellow designation represents far more than longevity. It reflects a sustained commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and service to the meetings and events profession. It affirms the passion I have for this industry and the pride I take in contributing to its growth and integrity over time.

Heather reflects:  I am beyond grateful to be part of an industry that encourages continued excellence. Every event, every meeting, is an opportunity to do more. And involvement in a community like MPI is an opportunity to give more. I think this designation is a reflection on my desire to always give everything I can. It's truly an honor!

Tess responds:  This designation represents a professional legacy and a currency for sustained industry contribution.  It is about advancing the profession rather than just adding a line to a resume.  Applying for it helped me see the full scope of my work over the years.

How has the MPI Georgia CMP Study Group and your involvement with MPI Georgia Chapter helped with achieving this accomplishment?

Tess replies:  The study group was essential because of its communal and practical approach to learning. I needed to see and hear the information being interpreted by others in real time. Those scenario-based debates were far more valuable than solo review.

Lesli shares:  My involvement with the MPI Georgia Chapter, and specifically the CMP Study Group, has played a meaningful role in achieving the CMP Fellow designation. The Study Group has long been a source of shared knowledge, accountability, and professional camaraderie. Participating in and supporting this group reinforced the importance of continuous education and staying current in an ever-evolving industry.

Beyond CMP preparation, my broader involvement with MPI Georgia for 22 years has provided opportunities to learn from and collaborate with an incredible network of professionals who are deeply committed to advancing the profession. Through chapter engagement, leadership, and peer connections, I have been inspired to stay engaged, grow professionally, and contribute in meaningful ways. This sense of community and shared purpose has been instrumental in sustaining my long-term commitment to the CMP and, ultimately, to earning the Fellow designation.

Heather states: I fully credit the study group with earning my CMP designation! Having the support of others during the months of preparation and study was absolutely invaluable. I cannot imagine having achieved that alone. Our MPI Georgia chapter provides incredible opportunities for professional development and offers a greater, wider understanding of this industry and how we fit into that. Without that home, foundation, and perspective, I certainly could not have made it through 20+ years (and counting!) as a meeting professional.

What has motivated you to continue renewing your CMP designation every 5 years?

Tess concludes:  The CMP is a major credibility lever that smooths the path into high-stakes conversations.  It signals a level of strategic depth and risk assessment that clients expect from an Event Producer.  As a Black woman running a business, it reinforces the expertise and comprehensive knowledge I bring to every execution.

Heather’s response:  As an independent planner, it's important to me that both clients and my supplier/venue partners know that I come to the table with industry-recognized expertise. Just in seeing my email signature, noting my CMP Fellow designation, those I correspond with know I bring a certain knowledge base, skill set, and ethical standard that push me toward planning at the highest level. They know they can trust me to work with integrity and impact.

Lesli says:  My motivation to consistently renew my CMP designation has always been rooted in a commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning. The CMP has served as both a benchmark and a compass throughout my career—ensuring that I remain informed, relevant, and aligned with industry best practices. Each renewal cycle has been an opportunity to reflect on my growth, expand my knowledge, and recommit to the evolving standards of our profession.

To reinforce the extent of achievement of these meeting professionals’ being named CMP Fellows, in order to apply for the CMP Fellow designation, one must be an active CMP or Emeritus in good standing with at least 10 consecutive years of tenure as a CMP. Applicants must submit a 1-page cover letter, a resume highlighting career progression and industry contributions (e.g., speaking, publishing), and a payment of a fee. As the Events Industry Council (EIC) outlines, the Key Requirements & Application Components include:

• Tenure & Status: Minimum 10 years as a CMP or Emeritus in active status.
• Experience & Contributions: Demonstrated career progression, industry contributions (speaking, publishing, awards), and volunteer leadership (e.g., serving on EIC Board/committees).
• Community Engagement: Evidence of mentoring or other industry-related volunteer work.
• Submission Materials: A one-page cover letter detailing how a candidate meets the criteria and an updated resume or CV.
• Fee: A one-time application fee of $350  (subject to change by the EIC)

 For more information on MPI Georgia Chapter’s CMP Study Group or on the CMP Fellow, please email Connie Bergeron, CMP Fellow, at connie@siteselectionsolutions.com. The link to the 2026 CMP Study Group schedule follows:
https://www.mpi.org/chapters/georgia/education-events/cmp-study-group