In Praise of Southwest Showcase!

Every year after the holidays we all shake off the rust and get back into the groove of our normal work schedules as the new year begins with it challenges and rewards. When the meetings industry calendar re-boots in January, one of the State’s most marquee events is Southwest Showcase Annual Conference and Expo presented by Meeting Professional International Texas Hill Country Chapter and the Central Texas Chapter of International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE CTC). This annual event in Austin has a unique history that many may not be aware of. 

The showcase, in its genesis, started out in the early 90’s and was the brainchild of the MPI THCC and the IAEE CTC. The original name was the MPI IAEE Crossroads (credit Charles Gallatin for being one of the creators and the one that came up with the show name) and for several years it was held at the Austin Convention Center. In the late 90’s a focus group was formed between MPI, IAEE and Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE). This committee met a few times to determine the viability of a new iteration of Crossroads, that would also involve TSAE as a third partnering entity.  I was working in Austin at the time and was a part of this task force and that’s where I first met Paula Rigling, who 20 years later would serve as our minister at our wedding. The decision was made to combine forces and Southwest Showcase was born.   

In its current form, Southwest Showcase is led by our show management Charles Gallatin, with ExpoTex Conference and Expo Planning, and three volunteer members from both MPI and IAEE that make up the six-person steering committee. They meet with Charles every month and work to bring together the next show including the speakers and education topics, menus, and the expo booth sales. Our three MPI THCC steering committee members this year were Donna Musselman, Andrea Elizondo, and Travis Milum. These individuals dedicated their time, energy, and expertise to make sure Southwest Showcase was a success. This steering committee is just one of the many ways to be involved in both MPI and IAEE.  The next time you see them be sure and say hello, say thank you and let them know how much they are truly appreciated!  

Our thanks go out to all the Southwest Showcase Sponsors. If you haven't already, please take the time to fill out a survey (links are on the Sponsor Thank You page).