The Sam Gilmer Planner of the Year and Supplier of the Year Awards represent the highest distinctions offered by the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP), an MPI partner. These prestigious honors are bestowed annually upon individuals who demonstrate exemplary leadership, relentless volunteerism and an unwavering commitment to executing SGMP’s mission and advancing the government meetings industry. This year, SGMP is incredibly proud to celebrate two exceptional leaders from the Louisiana Chapter who have made a profound impact at both the local and national levels.
2026 Sam Gilmer Planner of the Year: Sharon Delvisco, CGMP, DSW, LMSW
SGMP is thrilled to announce Sharon Delvisco as the 2026 Sam Gilmer Planner of the Year. This award recognizes Sharon’s exceptional leadership, continuous professional excellence and tireless service. Over her standout four-year tenure as president of the SGMP Louisiana Chapter, Sharon guided her members with a visionary approach while simultaneously serving as the editor for the chapter's monthly newsletter.
Sharon's influence extends deeply into SGMP's national framework. She serves as a Gilmer Institute of Learning Trustee, a multi-chapter Elections Committee Chair and is a frequent thought-leadership contributor to Government Connections magazine. A dedicated educator, Sharon developed the beginner-level curriculum for SGMP’s Leadership Micro-credential program and frequently presents on cutting-edge industry trends—ranging from critical diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging principles to the real-time integration of AI tools like ChatGPT into event planning.
Beyond her executive and academic accomplishments, Sharon is defined by her immense generosity. She stands as a pillar of the SGMP community, regularly supporting scholarship fundraisers and spearheading critical community campaigns like Spread the Love and Bottoms Up for Babies. Sharon’s profound commitment to mentorship, education and philanthropic service makes her a truly exemplary recipient of this year’s honor.
2026 Sam Gilmer Supplier of the Year: Zondra White Jones, CGMP
SGMP is equally proud to announce Zondra White Jones as the 2026 Sam Gilmer Supplier of the Year. This award recognizes Zondra's exceptional leadership, professional excellence and passionate dedication to the hospitality and government meetings industry. As an elite industry professional, Zondra holds multiple advanced credentials—including the CGMP and Certified Diversity Travel Professional (CDTP) designations, alongside SGMP’s Government Meeting Specialist (GMS) certificate.
Zondra currently champions the supplier voice nationally on the SGMP National Board of Directors as Supplier Director. Her extensive leadership portfolio includes serving as chair of both the SGMP CARES Committee and the Joint Leadership Meetings, following her impactful past service as second vice president for the SGMP Louisiana Chapter.
Beyond her organizational governance roles, Zondra is a celebrated force in tourism and media. She co-hosts the internationally recognized All the Waves podcast for Visit the Northshore, was named a 2025 Smart Women in Meetings award recipient and created the regional Spread the Love food bank service initiative. Known for her strategic, solutions-focused mindset and forward-thinking leadership style, Zondra consistently volunteers her time, mentors peers and champions inclusive hospitality. Her profound generosity and dedication to elevating others make her a magnificent recipient of the 2026 Supplier of the Year honor.
Both Sharon and Zondra represent the very heart of SGMP—industry professionals who give back to their community, lead by example and constantly push the boundaries of professional development. Please join us in congratulating our 2026 Sam Gilmer Award winners!
