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2026 Board of Directors
President
Megan Powers, MA
Chief Strategist, Powers of Marketing; Sr. Program Manager, Event Sponsorship Operations, Oracle
Megan Powers has wide and deep experience in meetings and events, having worked in almost every facet of the industry. Currently, she is on the Global Events Team at Oracle working as a Senior Program Manager in sponsorship. She founded her business Powers of Marketing in 2013
and hosts/facilitates digital and in-person events for her client Chief Wine Officer. Megan is a natural-born facilitator who also puts her curious mind to work as a podcaster, currently in the ninth season of hosting and producing her Making a Marketer podcast.
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Interim President-Elect
Carrie Shen, CMP, CMM, CED
Director of Event Management, Association of Asian American Investment Managers
Immediate Past President
Nathan Medina
Sr. Business Development Manager, AV Concepts
Nathan kicked off his career in the meetings and events industry back in 2013, starting at a meeting management company. In 2015, he jumped into the world of AV production sales with Vario, and his love for meeting new people and building connections led him to SDMPI.
But just being a member wasn’t enough for Nathan—he dove right in and has proudly served 7 years on the board. Now, he's gearing up to take on the President role for his 8th year of service! Nathan is all about soaking up wisdom from his peers as he continues to make his mark in the meetings and events world. When he’s not at a meeting, on-site, or working at the office, you can catch him hitting the soccer field, swinging a golf club, grilling up a feast, or living it up around America’s Finest City!
Vice President, Finance
Meredith Twohy, CMP
Director of Events, The Institute of Functional Medicine
Meredith Twohy is the Director of Events at the Institute for Functional Medicine, where she provides strategic oversight and leadership for the planning and production of IFM’s in-person and live-stream events. Her responsibilities encompass vendor and site selection, video production,
exhibiting, and sponsorship management. Meredith collaborates across teams to guide conference strategy, video production for events and marketing initiatives, and sponsor and exhibitor engagement. Prior to IFM, Meredith served as the Director of In-Person Events at Catalyst, a gender equity organization dedicated to accelerating progress for women in the workplace.
Vice President, Professional Development
Emily Amezcua-Mae
Sr. Operations Manager, Hosts Global SoCal
Having been involved in the entertainment world from a very young age, Emily has a multi-dimensional background in her field. From acting and singing, to event production and planning, to gigging with a band or two throughout the years, she is no stranger to the stage or working behind
the scenes. Cultivating a career in event entertainment was a natural evolution that began in 2015. Emily primarily works with musical entertainment, as well as specialized and unique acts for the corporate and private event world.
Her experience with a wide range of performers, as well as knowledge of the inner workings of live events, gives her unique insight into the entertainment that will be the most impactful to your event. Emily has a true passion for working with clients to help their vision come to life as well as a deep admiration for performers of all kinds. She has been involved with several industry associations and is thrilled to be a part of such a dynamic community. She is a proud member of MPI San Diego and has served on the committee of educational events.
On a personal note, you can find her adventuring and traveling with her husband, seeing all the shows and eating all the good food, and playing in her music studio as much as possible.
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Vice President, Membership
Corinne Youngholm
Independent Hospitality Professional
With over 20 years in destination management and another four years in higher education, Corinne brings a unique blend of industry expertise and academic experience. Her career has spanned sales leadership, large-scale event production, university recruitment, and academic advising for hospitality students.
At the heart of everything she does is relationship-building. Corinne is a natural connector who believes meaningful relationships are the foundation of great business, strong teams, and impactful programs. She is energized by work that is purpose-driven, collaborative, and people-focused.
Corinne currently serves on the 2026 Board of the MPI San Diego Chapter as Vice President of Membership, where she supports existing members while expanding the chapter’s reach and engagement within the meetings and events community.
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Director of Membership
Ruth Maldonado
Global Account Director, Crescent Hotels & Resorts
Ruth Maldonado is a Global Account Director at Crescent Hotels & Resorts and brings over a decade of high-level experience in hotel sales, management, and account strategy to the MPI Board. Her expertise includes driving revenue and fostering key client relationships across prominent
hospitality brands like Doyle Collection and HEI Hotels & Resorts. As the current Director of Membership for the MPI San Diego Chapter, Ruth is dedicated to growing the organization and ensuring high-value engagement for all members.
Director of Special Events
Melissa Paris
Director of Sales & Events, San Diego Air & Space Museum
For over 22 years Melissa has served as the Director of Sales and Events for the San Diego Air & Space Museum, expertly leading the planning and execution of diverse events that captivate local and global clients alike. With a keen focus on sales, growth, and client satisfaction she has
successfully cultivated partnerships with hundreds of organizations while driving event revenue to new heights. Recognized for her innovative approach and ability to oversee multiple clients and tasks continues to elevate the Museum’s reputation as premier venue and being a vital part of the community.
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Director of Strategic Partnerships
Erica Castro-Larsen
Director of Sales, Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Currently serving as the Director of Sales at Loews Coronado Bay Resort, Erica oversees the development and execution of strategic sales initiatives while mentoring a talented sales team. Prior to her current role, Erica contributed to the success of the Courtyard San Diego Downtown, housed in a historic landmark that was originally the San Diego Trust and Savings Bank. She also gained invaluable experience at a diverse array of hotels in the Denver market including the pop culture themed Curtis hotel and the stunning historic Oxford Hotel.
A dedicated industry professional, Erica is committed to creating meaningful partnerships that elevate the hospitality and events community in San Diego and beyond. Her collaborative approach, strategic vision, and deep industry knowledge makes her a valuable asset to the MPI San Diego Chapter.
Director of Education Programs
Julie Fry
Director of Sales & Marketing, Onyx Offsites & Trainings
that align with their goals and inspire participants. Julie is an active supporter of the MPI San Diego community and is passionate about sourcing thought-leading speakers and educational experiences that drive the meetings and events industry forward. When she’s not connecting with peers, you’ll find Julie at an Orangetheory class, seeking inspiration outdoors, or traveling, always curious and always gathering ideas that reinforce her belief in the power of shared experience.
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Chapter Administrator
Tina Marie Honor
After serving as a Chapter leader from 2018 through her Presidential year (2023 to 2024), Tina Marie is the dedicated Chapter Administrator of MPI San Diego. She brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the industry to her role, and looks forward to working with other chapters.
Her company, Bravo! Business Solutions, LLC specializes in providing comprehensive business management services tailored to the needs of non-profit organizations within the meeting and event industry. At Bravo Business Solutions, Tina Marie leverages her extensive background in event management, strategic planning, and membership engagement to deliver solutions that drive success and foster community engagement.
Connect with Tina Marie Honor