From CMP to CMM: Veronica McKee’s Journey to Executive-Level Event Leadership

For many event professionals, earning the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation is a significant career milestone. After obtaining her CMP nearly 20 years ago, Veronica McKee was looking for the next step in her professional growth. Something that would help her focus less on event logistics and more on the business strategies that drive events.

When MPI redesigned the Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM) program in 2026 to emphasize executive leadership, measurable business outcomes, and strategic thinking, Veronica knew it was the right fit. The program's reputation for excellence, combined with recommendations from industry leaders, encouraged her to apply. MPI's outreach and scholarship opportunities through the MPI Foundation played an important role in making the experience possible. 

One of the biggest draws according to Veronica was the cohort model. The three-month program began with an in-person immersion experience, allowing participants to build relationships with peers from across the industry. "The cohort experience was invaluable," Veronica shared. "I learned something new every week, even on topics I thought I already knew well." Her cohort included entrepreneurs, independent planners, suppliers, and corporate event professionals, creating a rich environment for collaboration and discussion.

While the program offered the flexibility that working professionals need, including recorded sessions and instructor office hours, it was also rigorous. Participants attended two weekly sessions, completed assignments, collaborated with their cohort, and worked on an individual capstone project that applied course concepts to a real-world business challenge. Veronica spent an average of three to five hours each week on coursework and was surprised by the depth of the discussions and the master's-level rigor. 

Looking back, Veronica says she would absolutely enroll again. She recommends the CMM to experienced event professionals, particularly CMPs who are ready to elevate their careers and focus on the strategic business impact of meetings and events.

Her advice for prospective students? Make sure you have the time to fully engage. The learning, networking, and discussions are what make the experience so valuable. 

For professionals looking to take their work to the next level, the CMM offers more than a credential—it provides a new way of thinking about the role events play in driving business success.